As one of the inner Southtowns with a proud, storied history, West Seneca is a community steeped in tradition. And with the I-90 and Aurora Expressway running through the core, this Erie County town is literally at the crossroads of the Greater Buffalo and Rochester areas. With many homes relying on fireplaces for supplemental heating, chimney inspections are not just a mere recommendation. It is a necessity. With more than sixty years of experience under our toolbelts, Felgemacher is proud to be the oldest and most respected chimney & hearth company in Western New York.
How Our Unique Climate Affects Your Masonry Chimney
West Seneca sits directly in the path of the “Lake Effect” snow bands that roll off Lake Erie. This means our chimneys endure some of the highest moisture levels and most frequent freeze-thaw cycles in the country. When moisture soaks into porous masonry and then freezes, it expands, causing the brick to spall and the mortar to “wash away,” which can destabilize the structure. Also, heavy snow accumulation and thunderstorms can cause masonry cracks, leading to water seepage into the interior structure, rotting wood framing in the attic, and damaged ceilings.
The Importance of Annual Chimney Inspections in West Seneca, NY
In the WNY, the fireplace is the hearth of the home from October through April. During the inspection, our CSIA-Certified Chimney Sweep® (CSC®) inspects the entire chimney system, including vents, connector pipes, and attached heating appliances for any signs of fire, health, or structural hazards per National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Rule 211.
Gas Fireplace Inspection
Do not be fooled into thinking a gas fireplace is maintenance-free. While they burn cleaner than wood, natural gas units can suffer from clogged burner ports, cracked logs, and worn components. Most importantly, we measure oxygen levels to ensure that odorless, colorless, and tasteless carbon monoxide fumes are venting efficiently from your home and not leaking into your living space.
Chimney Liner Inspection
The liner is your chimney’s most important safety net: it stands between your chimney flue and your living space, protecting your home’s flammable structure from the firebox’s intense heat. We use an advanced internal chimney camera system to scan the entire length of your flue in real-time. This incredible technology lets the technician see any hidden cracks or gaps in mortar joints that are too small for the naked eye to detect. This allows your sweep to make minor repairs before more severe issues develop. The small cost of a chimney inspection can prolong your liner’s lifespan, saving the cost of a full replacement.
Homeowner’s Insurance & Chimney Inspections in New York
In the event of a chimney-related claim, your insurance provider may require proof of professional maintenance. Keeping a record of your annual inspection by a Certified Chimney Sweep (CCS®) provides the documentation necessary to demonstrate that you have properly maintained your heating system in accordance with your policy’s requirements.
Smoke & Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detectors Are Your Early Warning System
Since many chimney fires and carbon monoxide poisoning events occur in the middle of the night, your smoke and CO detectors may be your only warning of imminent danger. We recommend testing your detectors monthly and replacing the units every 5–7 years to ensure they are ready to protect your family in an emergency.
Don’t let your home go unprotected. Contact Felgemacher or your local fire department if you need help with installing, testing, or acquiring smoke and CO detectors for your home.
Call Felgemacher for Certified Chimney Inspections in West Seneca, NY
Do you have a wood-burning hearth or a gas fireplace? Have your chimney inspected and cleaned annually to prevent fire hazards, health risks, and structural issues. Our certified chimney sweeps follow the standards set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 211, the New York State Mechanical Code, and local building regulations.
Call now or fill out the form on our website to speak with a Certified Chimney Sweep®. We proudly serve Erie County, Blossom, Spring Brook, Sloan, and surrounding communities in WNY.
