Do You Need a CCTV Chimney Inspection?

All chimneys need to undergo a CCTV inspection at least once a year. This is an integral part of proper chimney maintenance.

It is the only method available that makes it possible for chimney interiors to be thoroughly checked. It detects even the smallest or hard-to-spot problems inside the structure. Furthermore, a CCTV survey enables inspectors to accurately diagnose problems.

It allows them to check the chimney easily and quickly. It eliminates the need to disassemble parts of the structure which was the practice decades ago. Basically, the inspection can be finished in just an hour.

Why Is a CCTV Chimney Inspection Important?

An inspection is essential to keep your chimney in tiptop condition. This particular survey method is primarily meant to detect any issues in the interiors of the chimney.

Some homeowners think that an exterior inspection is enough.

This is not true!

The structure should be checked inside out. In fact, most chimney-related house fires emanate from issues involving the chimney interiors. According to reports, creosote buildup is the leading cause of these chimney-related house fires.

A residue that sticks to the flue liner, creosote is produced when burning wood or fossil fuels. It starts off as a flaky deposit that can easily be scraped off. However, over time, it turns into a tar-like substance and hardens. At this stage, it can be difficult to remove it.

Creosote in the chimney can cause a lot of problems. For one, it can prevent efficient airflow in the chimney. When this happens, creosote can accumulate at a faster rate. It can also prevent gases from exiting your house.

Take note:

It is very dangerous for toxic fumes to leak into your home. Exposure to these gases, particularly carbon monoxide, can cause several health issues such as headaches, nausea, skin rashes and eye irritation. Prolonged exposure to this odourless gas can even lead to death.

What’s more?

Aside from being a danger to your health, creosote is also a fire hazard. This highly flammable substance can cause fires that can weaken the lining of your chimney. If this repeatedly happens, the liner won’t be able to contain the heat. As a result, areas adjacent to the chimney such as woodwork may go up in flames.

CCTV Chimney Inspection – When to Schedule It?

Ideally, it is best to have your chimney checked before cleaning it. Most homeowners in Ireland schedule these tasks during autumn. This is to ensure that the chimney is ready for the winter season.

However, there are also those who opt to have the inspection and cleaning as well as chimney repairs during spring.

What’s the reason behind this?

As mentioned earlier, creosote eventually hardens. The harder it becomes, the more difficult it is to remove it. In addition, the longer this substance stays, the more damage it causes in the liner and the masonry.

Damages to the flue liner and masonry can prevent the chimney from performing optimally. These can also cause the chimney to deteriorate faster, resulting in it having a shorter service life.

Doing the CCTV inspection in spring enables you to find creosote deposits and clean them before they can cause more damage.

It also lets you find problems early on. You see, after being used all winterlong, your chimney may have incurred cracks or other damages. This is not unusual at all! However, you need to address the issues early on to prevent them from worsening.

A CCTV inspection is not just needed to preserve your chimney. It is also essential in ensuring that the structure is safe to use.

Looking for a trusted provider of CCTV survey for your chimney? Let us do the job! Call us today on +353 872805825.