The One Pro You Should Call at the Start of Fall (Unless You Want to Pay * More* Later)
Cozying up with a warm fire is something my husband and I look forward to when the weather starts to get cold. The ambience that the flames offer as we listen to the sound of our crackling wood fireplace is a relaxing way to spend the evening (even our kitties love to snuggle up in front of the warmth!).
Although fall may seem early to ensure your fireplace is in good working order, there are several reasons to get your chimney, hearth, and flue in tip-top shape before the season begins. (Number one: What a mood-killer to cozy up around your fireplace, only to find it’s not working!)
I was curious about what to do for my own fireplace maintenance, so I asked a pro in my area to get their take on getting ahead of the game. Here’s why now is the best time to think about prepping your fireplace for the winter season.
Why Is Fall the Best Time to Have a Fireplace Inspection?
As with anything you use often, it’s best to make sure it’s functioning properly beforehand rather than discovering an issue when it’s in use. “Fall is the perfect time to make sure your fireplace is ready before you light that first fire,” says Christian Smith, who is the owner of Flue Pros Chimney in Mount Solon, Virginia.
Making an appointment with your chimney repair specialist before their schedule books up can help you beat the rush once cold weather hits. Plus, a routine inspection can catch hidden dangers, such as blockages, leaks, or cracked flues, before they become hazardous. If you wait until winter and an issue arises, your repair time and cost could increase due to higher demand.
Do Both Wood and Gas Fireplaces Need to Be Inspected?
According to Smith, both wood-burning and gas units need to be inspected before the season begins, although for different reasons.
Wood fireplaces can have a buildup of creosote, a tar-like material that can be left behind after wood is burned. The flammable substance is a pretty serious fire risk if left unchecked. Beyond that, cracks in the masonry can let moisture seep in and cause even bigger structural problems.
And, of course, fireplaces and chimneys can be pretty attractive places for critters to nest in the off-season.
Although gas fireplaces can look cleaner, Smith also reveals that “they can still suffer from venting problems, blockages, or worn-out parts that affect performance and safety.” They’re also prone to critters, so it’s worth a check to make sure you’re not an unwitting landlord.
No matter what type of fuel your fireplace consumes, Smith advises that regular maintenance is essential. “Both gas and wood fireplaces should be inspected yearly,” he says. Ensure your professional thoroughly checks your system over to keep everything functioning correctly and safely.
What Is the Average Cost of an Inspection?
The price depends on several factors, such as where you live, the type of system, and the level of detail required to inspect your particular fireplace, but Smith says you can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $1500.
“Our inspections include checking the firebox, damper, chimney or venting system, masonry, and overall structure,” says Smith — standard in the industry. Your technician may also be able to use camera technology to detect hidden issues, especially in the flue and chimney areas.
After the inspection, expect to receive a complete evaluation along with a detailed report. If something is wrong with the fireplace, a chimney sweep should be able to provide clear repair options along with a quote for additional services.
Although the cost of an inspection can be expensive, the peace of mind it provides is well-worth it. A bonus is that your heating costs may decrease slightly.
“A clean, well-maintained system not only prevents fires and smoke issues, but it also saves money on heating by running more efficiently,” says Smith. Thinking ahead to those cold, blustery days can ease your mind and ensure a safe, efficient system that’s ready to keep you toasty all winter long.