Qualified and Professional Chimney Sweeps
The owners of Felgemacher Masonry & Chimney of Charlotte are certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). The CSIA is the leading credentialing organization that requires a chimney sweep to pass a rigorous training program and possess demonstrable knowledge of the entire chimney apparatus, vents, and attached heating appliances to receive this nationally recognized certification.
So, when it’s time to inspect and clean your chimney, call the experts with over 60 years of chimney service experience at Felgemacher Masonry & Chimney. We’re keeping chimneys safe and efficient in Wingate, NC, Concord, NC, Mooresville, NC, Mecklenburg County, and communities throughout the Metrolina region.
Why Hire a CSIA-Certified Sweep?
Not every chimney sweep is CSIA-certified. When hiring a chimney sweep, look for the CSIA-certified badge. It is your assurance that you are hiring a chimney professional with the skills and tools to perform any chimney service safely and reliably, including inspections, cleanings, repairs, and stove & fireplace insert installations. In addition, a CSIA-Certified Chimney Sweep® must pass recurrent training every two years to maintain this prestigious certification.
Chimney Inspections
One of the most critical jobs of a Certified Chimney Sweep is to perform chimney inspections per National Fire Protection Association (NFPA-211) industry standards. Mecklenburg County fire officials recommend all homeowners with wood or gas-burning heating appliances have annual inspections.
Felgemacher Masonry & Chimney is certified to perform all three levels of chimney inspections, from the standard level 1 visual inspection to an extensive level three examination. We also perform level 2 real estate chimney inspections, which include advanced video technology that can discover minor problems in the flue that cannot be seen during a visual review. A chimney inspection is an efficient and affordable way to detect indications of wear or damage, avoiding more extensive repairs. It also reduces the fire risk and exposure to toxic carbon monoxide fumes.
Creosote – A “hidden” danger
Creosote is a mostly carbon substance that is naturally produced when combusting wood. Some sticky material adheres to the masonry walls, damper, and other components as the smoke vents up the flue where it exits the house. It also becomes increasingly flammable the longer it sits in the chimney and is the primary cause of house fires. A hot ember, the intense heat of the fireplace, or even a lightning strike can ignite a fire in the chimney that can quickly spread to the roof, ceiling, and walls throughout the house. According to the CSIA, more than a 1/8″ layer of creosote is dangerous and should be removed. That’s why creosote removal is a routine part of our chimney cleaning service.
Removing Flue Obstructions
A flue obstruction occurs when excessive creosote buildup, animal nests, debris, and other organic material restrict the airflow inside the chimney. When the airflow is limited, the smoke and fumes cannot efficiently exit your home. In severe cases, it can cause a dangerous backdraft that pushes smoke, harmful contaminants, and hot embers out of the fireplace and into the living space. In addition to a startling experience, your flooring and nearby furnishings will be covered in black soot and littered with debris. The smoke and fumes will also reduce indoor air quality. So, scheduling a chimney inspection is best to ensure your chimney and fireplace or heating stove are not a fire or health hazard.
CSIA-Certified Chimney Sweep Near Me
With owner certification by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), Felgemacher Masonry & Chimney is your local CSIA-Certified Chimney Sweep® serving the Greater Charlotte- Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC Metro area, including Hickory, NC, Statesville NC, and Fort Mill, SC.
If it is time for you to hire a qualified chimney sweep, please give us a call today!
704-741-2021
Felgemacher Masonry & Chimney of Charlotte
10806 Reames Rd.
Charlotte, NC 28269
