by Billy Sweet | Jun 27, 2019 | Chimney Video Inspection
Of all the services that keep your chimney system working properly and safely, video scanning may be the most important. With a video scan, a professional gets an up-close view of the interior of the chimney system. The days of checking the flue with a flashlight and mirror to determine hazards are over. With video technology, we are now able to properly inspect the chimney tin the Boston, North Shore, and Portland areas. If you reside in the area, we can help.
The Importance of Chimney Inspections
Chimney systems need to be inspected annually in order to be safe and efficient, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The most thorough inspections include a video scan. In fact, they are required for a level two inspection. A level 2 inspection is necessary when:
- changes have been made to the system,
- a natural disaster has affected the system
- selling or buying property
You don’t have to schedule a level two inspection to have your chimney scanned, however. Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep uses video technology with every single inspection. This keeps our customers, friends, and neighbors safe.
Benefits of a Video Scan
At Billy Sweet, we utilize two video camera systems, the Chim-Scan, and the Wohler Vis2000-Pro, both with their own unique strengths and features. Our techs are trained and experienced using both video systems to access the flue, and can easily identify hazards such as leaks, voids, debris, and damage. These findings will be used to plan necessary repairs, to validate chimney safety, and to disclose to prospective homebuyers. No matter the reason, this video scan inspection will result in a detailed report of the findings and an explanation for all recommended changes or repairs.
Our video scanning equipment also helps Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep technicians to document every job, before and after. This allows us to check work, show the homeowner progress and completion, and keep records for future appointments. We put the safety and comfort of our customers above all else, and part of the trust we value in our customer relationships is due to the honesty of our work and diagnostics. Our customers can count on us because we count on industry tools like video technology to give honest answers with documented reason.
Schedule An Appointment With Us
If you suspect a problem with your chimney system, you may benefit from a chimney video scan. Schedule now and you can avoid the fall rush and have any necessary repairs completed before burn season. Every chimney system should be inspected annually, so if you haven’t scheduled an inspection in the last 12 months, now is the time.
Call Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep today at 617-469-4528 or schedule online.
by Billy Sweet | May 29, 2019 | Chimney Certifications
For years the chimney industry has been largely unregulated and still is to a degree. There is no hard and fast rule that a certified professional must complete. While municipal codes may require certain certifications for new constructions and major repairs, manufactures may require certifications for installation and repairs to maintain the warranty. There is nothing that requires a chimney sweep to have a certification.
At Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep, we seek certifications in our field and continue our education to stay ahead of changes and technological advancements about chimneys. The bottom line is this: we want to offer the best services to keep our customers safe and comfortable. We get the certifications not for our sake, but because we care about you. We’re proud of our certifications and our training, and we are happy to serve you!
Certified Chimney Sweeps (CCS)
The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) is the only nationally-recognized standard for chimney professionals and was established in 1983. The CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep (CCS) credential is recognized by the field, manufacturers, lawyers, fire marshals, and realtors. CSIA is a non-profit organization run by volunteers with a focus on public safety and industry advancement. As members, not only do we have the support of countless professionals, but we are also part of a great mission. The mission is to educate the public and professional realm with the goal of eliminating residential fires, carbon monoxide intrusion, and other chimney-related hazards that result in the loss of life and property.
As CSIA certified sweeps, we also adhere to a stringent Code of Ethics designs to protect homeowners from potential scams. If any chimney sweeps are found in violation of this code, their certification may be revoked. If you’re concerned that your chimney sweep or chimney sweep company is not certified and is a scam, you can search for them on the CSIA database.
F.I.R.E. Certified Technicians
While this is not a company certification, Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep make it a priority to be certified F.I.R.E. Inspectors. The F.I.R.E. certification is somewhat more advanced than the CSIA certification. F.I.R.E. certified inspectors have completed 3 advanced courses, and they are required to re-certify every three years.
At Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep, we don’t want to disqualify ourselves from any area or job, so we strive for excellence by maintaining certifications in both of these reputable organizations in the industry—CSIA and F.I.R.E. When you’re searching for a chimney sweep to complete your routine maintenance, installations, repairs, and more, you can trust the team at Billy Sweet. We have certified chimney sweeps, F.I.R.E. inspectors, and we are also members of the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG).
We want to be the top choice for chimney care in and around Boston, North Shore, and Portland. Call and schedule with the best today at 617-469-4528.
by Billy Sweet | Apr 11, 2019 | Chimney Inspection
While you work on your Spring Cleaning list, make sure you don’t forget your chimney. Your chimney system matters as much as any other system in your life. You get your oil changed to keep your engine running correctly. You have your teeth cleaned to prevent cavities. Likewise, you should have your chimney system serviced regularly to keep it working safely and efficiently. Your chimney is one of the largest systems in your home. It’s also one of the most dangerous and costly if neglected. A fireplace and chimney add value to any home, but when it’s neglected, it detracts from your home’s value while also putting your family and property at risk.
Professional Services
Your chimney system should be maintained by a chimney professional with the training and experience to do the work properly. The team at Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep are CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps with classroom and field training in both chimney science and technology as well as federal fire safety codes. We have a full selection of chimney services, including CSIA inspections and sweeping.
Why Service Your Chimney?
Whether your chimney has problems or works exactly as it should, your system needs to be serviced regularly. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) agree that the safest chimney systems are those that are inspected annually and cleaned regularly. During these important appointments, your chimney professional will catch minor problems before they turn into major ones. Minor wear-and-tear can be detected and repaired before it turns into serious damage. Having the chimney maintained on a regular basis by a professional is the best way to prevent costly repairs later and to keep your system efficient. Neglecting your chimney system will lead to wasted fuel, difficult-to-light fires, damaged masonry, stains, deterioration, and more. Save time and money by scheduling services this spring.
Your Serviced Chimney
Clean your chimney system this spring and you can avoid foul odors this summer caused by creosote and soot left inside the system. Having the system inspected this spring will help to prevent animal intrusion this spring and summer. Making sure that all parts are in proper working order also means that your system will be protected against water damage and will be ready again to use safely this fall. Don’t wait until the fall to schedule important services for your chimney system. It can be difficult and even impossible to get an appointment in the fall, often called The Fall Rush. If you get an appointment during this time, you may be surprised by reports of damage and necessary repairs. Schedule now so you will have plenty of time to make repairs before burn season. Many homeowners even build the chimney maintenance into their annual spring budget, utilizing tax refunds and taking advantage of end-of-season discounts. Call and find out if Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep has any deals or discounts to benefit your family.
Schedule chimney services with New England’s chosen professionals today. Call 617-469-4528 today.
by Billy Sweet | Mar 13, 2019 | Leaky Chimney
Your chimney is designed to withstand time and weather, but it will only hold up as long as it’s properly maintained and used correctly. Part of this chimney care is professional and routinely scheduled services through a licensed and certified chimney sweep company. During these chimney checkups, your system will be assessed for overall safety and structure. Neglecting these appointments can mean a disaster for your chimney, especially when it leads to a leak.
Leaky Chimneys
Causes:
-Missing chimney caps are a major cause for leaky chimneys because the cap serves as a roof for the flue. Without it, precipitation freely falls into the flue and can damage the system from the inside out.
-Damaged or dislodged flashing allows water into the intersection of the roof and chimney. The flashing should be installed professionally so that it protects against water, and should not be nailed or covered in sealant.
-A cracked or damaged crown can allow water into the system from the top, whether water, snow, or ice. Once the crown is damaged, winter weather can add to the issue and worsen the problem.
-Masonry damage allows water into the chimney through masonry that is damaged or unprotected. Once allowed into the masonry, winter weather can damage the masonry throughout winter through the freeze/thaw cycle. Once the water penetrates the masonry, it can cause leaking in the flue and even more damage to the masonry.
Signs:
-Sounds of dripping in the fireplace or chimney system
-White stains on the outside of the masonry, red rust stains at the top of the chimney exterior, and green or black stains in the firebox
-Visible water dripping in the firebox or running along the chimney
-Leaks around the chimney or in other rooms of the house
-Smells of mildew or mold
Water Damage
Chimney leaks are 100 percent preventable, and spending the time and money necessary to prevent the leak will prevent damage later. Your chimney leak can cause leaking in the system and throughout the rest of the home, ruining wall coverings, furniture, and wreaking havoc on the chimney system itself.
When there is a chimney leak, it can cause damage to the working parts of the system, rust to the damper, door hinges, and components, stains and deterioration, and clogged cleanout doors and flues.
Professional Leak-Proofing
Our customers in and around Boston depend on us for chimney waterproofing year-round. We replace chimney caps, repair and replace chimney crown, install flashing, and even waterproof masonry for good measure. Our waterproofing services will protect your masonry completely from water penetration while allowing the heat and gases out. This vapor-permeable water repellent allows the masonry to breathe and vent properly, unlike many purported water-repellents on the market.
In order to prevent leaks this spring, make sure your masonry doesn’t have any winter damage that can allow spring showers to penetrate your chimney system. Call Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep today and let an expert check out your system for possible leaks and apply a waterproofing agent that will last years.
Dial 617-469-4528 to reach our Boston office today.
by Billy Sweet | Feb 5, 2019 | CSIA Certification
Your chimney may be the most important system in your house. It’s built to outlast your home and to continue working for a lifetime. However, it will not last without routine services and minor repairs. Your warmth, safety, and home depends upon it. You don’t only need professional services to keep your chimney in the best shape possible, but you also need to choose the right professionals. Anyone with a brush can call themselves a chimney sweep, but it takes certifications, insurance and ethics to have the standards to safely care for your chimney system.
CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps
Since the 1980s the Chimney Safety Institute of America has been the national standard for chimney professionals and service in the US. CSIA certified chimney sweeps (CCS) have been trained in the field and the classroom to provide the best services possible. They are educated and tested over national fire safety codes, industry standards, chimney and fire science. Once certification is reached, CSIA certified chimney sweeps must continue education through re-certification or continuing education credits every three years.
Why A CSIA Certification Matters to Homeowners
The CSIA is a non-profit organization governed by volunteer who are experts in the industry. Their mission includes public and professional education with a commitment to the elimination of residential fires, carbon monoxide intrusion, and other chimney-related hazards to protect homeowners. By hiring a CSIA certified sweep, you are relying on a technician who has proven their technical expertise and dedication to safety as well as the promise to follow a code of ethics.
Code of Ethics
We understand it can be difficult to entrust your home and your safety with strangers. That is why all CSIA certified chimney sweeps abide by a stringent Code of Ethics which protects homeowners from scams. A CSIA member found in violation of this code may have their certification revoked. Without a code of ethics to follow, unqualified chimney sweeps scam homeowners with low estimate repair costs that will not fix the problem or they charge high prices for incorrect work just to make extra money.
At Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep, we want to only offer the best to our customers, friends, family, and neighbors. Residential fires and industry scams are a disappointment to us and other certified professionals across the US. Scams are possible only due to the lack of regulations. One woman paid over $4,000 for repairs that were done incorrectly. This is no isolated incident. Hiring amateurs, handymen, and other unlicensed contractors to work on your chimney can mean wasted money and a dangerous chimney. The result can cause damage to the house, or worse–loss of life.
The best use of your money and our time is to schedule routine maintenance so that major repairs are avoiding. Schedule an annual chimney inspection to catch problems before minor problems turn into major work. Hiring professionals for all of your diagnostics, repairs, annual services, and installations means the best for your home.
If you reside in the Boston, Portland, or North Shore area, call Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep for your comprehensive chimney care.
