FIREPLACE INSPECTION

An excellent reason not to waive a home inspection is the inspection of a fireplace.  I take special care with this part of the inspection.  Damaged fireplace could lead to a disaster.   First step to fireplace inspection to exam the area outside the fireplace.  This is a fireproof service called a hearth.  It should be at least sixteen inches from the fireplace and made of a fireproof material such has concrete or stone.  The purpose of hearth is to protect the area around the fireplace from sparks or hot ashes.

Inside the fireplace, what is called the fire chamber, is just a that a fireproof enclosure around the fireplace.  This prevents both heat and flames from escaping.  These are generally made of steel, brick or concrete.  Part of the fireplace inspection process is to visually inspect the chamber for cracks, holes or any other imperfection that could allow flames to escape.  The remaining piece of the inspection is for the damper.  Vents that allow smoke to exit the fire chamber are called dampers, which are an opening that flips shut and are generally six to eight inches in diameter.  Every damper I have seen is made of steel.   Inspectors should check the damper for operation.

Proper fireplace inspection is something everyone homeowner should be concerned about.  When purchasing a new home these need to be properly inspected by a trained home inspector.  Fireplaces should be regular inspected by safety and any cracks or damage in the fire chamber should be repaired by a qualified and insured person.

Gold Home Inspection is trained and certified in the inspection of Fireplaces.

Crack in the side of the fire chamber

Cracked Chamber. This is unsafe to use

Cracked Chamber. This is unsafe to use

Crack in the side of the fire chamber