KL Sweep - Chimney Cleaning & Safety

Cleaning, inspections and Safety

Our Chimney Cleaning Process

Our chimney cleanings are more than just a sweep and go. Every cleaning includes a full service inspection and when applicable, a camera inspection to evaluate areas not visible to the naked eye.

At the conclusion of your visit, you'll receive a detailed checklist outlining:

~The condition of your chimney and flue

~Any areas that need attention or repair

~Confirmation if your system is safe and ready for use

why a cleaning is required before inspection

A chimney must be cleaned before we can perform a thorough inspection. Creosote, soot, ash and other deposits can obscure the interior surfaces of the chimney and prevent us from accurately evaluating its condition.

A cleaning is not simply an additional service. It is often necessary to properly see and evaluate the chimney. In short: clean first, inspect second.

About Our Inspections

Not all chimney inspections are the same. The level of inspection depends on the condition of the chimney, the type of appliance, and whether anything has changed since the chimney was last inspected.

Chimney inspections follow standards set by the National Fire Protection Association under NFPA 211 guidelines.

Level 1 Chimney Inspection

A Level 1 inspection is the most basic level of chimney inspection. It is appropriate when the chimney and appliance have not undergone any changes and there are no known concerns with the system. A level 1 inspection is primarily a visual examination of readily accessible portions of the chimney, appliance and venting system.

KL Sweep & Masonry Solutions does not offer Level 1 inspections.

Level 2 Chimney Inspection

A level 2 inspection is a more thorough inspection and is the inspection level we provide. A level 2 inspection includes everything in a Level 1 inspection, along with a video camera examination of the interior of the chimney flue. The camera allows us to examine areas that cannot be seen during a standard visual inspection and helps identify conditions such as cracks, damage, deterioration, obstructions, improper construction, or other potential safety concerns.

Level 3 Chimney Inspection

A level 3 inspection is the most comprehensive level of chimney inspection and is performed when a level 1 or 2 inspection indicates that a serious or concealed problem may exist.

A level 3 inspection may require removal of certain components, building materials, or other portions of the chimney or appliance system in order to access concealed areas that cannot otherwise be inspected.

Certain wood stoves, inserts, liners, or unusual chimney configurations may require additional investigation beyond a standard level 2 inspection. If we encounter conditions that warrant a level 3 inspection, we will discuss the situation and the necessary next steps with you before proceeding.

Safety

You should stop using your fireplace or stove right away and schedule an inspection if you notice any of the following:

~Smoke backing into the home
~Strong or unusual odors while burning
~Poor draft or difficulty keeping a fire lit
These signs can indicate blockages, creosote buildup, or other issues that may compromise safety.