Located at the mouth of the Irondequoit Bay in northeast Monroe County, Webster is a desirable suburban town where life revolves around the waterfront. Surrounded by natural preserves and woodlands, residents enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle. Although upstaters play on the sandy beaches in the summer, they hunker down by a roaring fire during the long, frigid winters. As one of the oldest Certified Chimney Sweeps (CSC®), the Felgemacher family has been serving Webster and Greater Rochester, NY, with honest, ethical, and accurate chimney inspections for generations.
Why Annual Chimney Inspections Are Vital in Webster, NY
In a climate like ours, even a single season of wood burning can lead to dangerous creosote buildup. Also, our region’s freeze-thaw cycles make chimneys susceptible to spalling, a severe condition that causes the brick and mortar to flake, crumble, or even pop off the chimney. Additionally, your homeowner’s insurance carrier may ask for proof that your chimney was inspected by a CCS® within the last 12 months when submitting a claim.
What We Inspect During a Chimney Inspection
As we are certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSC), we follow the industry standards and codes mandated by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Rule 211. In a nutshell, we expect the entire chimney system, including vents and attached heating appliances, to be free of fire, health, and structural hazards. This includes checking both the interior and exterior masonry, as well as the chimney cap, chase cover, crown, and flashing.
Our sweeps will also insert a specialized high-definition chimney camera into the flue, allowing us to identify minor issues before they escalate into more severe hazards:
- Hairline cracks in the flue tiles.
- Separated or deteriorating mortar joints.
- Accumulated creosote or hidden blockages, like bird nests.
- Internal moisture damage or rusted dampers.
- Determine whether cleaning is necessary.
I have a gas fireplace; Do I still need a chimney inspection?
Yes. It is a common misconception that gas units are “maintenance-free.” While gas burns cleaner than wood, these systems face unique issues:
- Debris & Blockages: Spiders, birds, and squirrels can still nest in the venting, leading to carbon monoxide exposure.
- Condensation: The chemical reaction from gas combustion produces high levels of water vapor. This moisture is acidic and can erode your chimney’s liner.
- Component Wear: Ceramic logs can crack, and burner ports can become clogged with dust, affecting burn efficiency and safety. Routine inspections and the replacement of worn components not only improve safety but also prolong the useful life of the gas appliance.
Are Your Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors Working?
Since many chimney fires and carbon monoxide poisoning events occur in the middle of the night, your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors may be your only warning of imminent danger.
We always recommend testing these devices monthly and replacing batteries every season. If you need help acquiring, installing, or testing fire safety equipment in your home, contact your local fire department for assistance.
Call Felgemacher for Certified Inspections in Webster, NY
No matter how frequently you use your fireplace, it’s essential to 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 us or fill out the form on our website to schedule your chimney inspection today and experience legendary service from a company with over 60 years of excellence. We proudly serve Monroe County, Union Hill, Penfield, and East Rochester.
