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The Importance of Hiring a CSIA-Certified Chimney Sweep

It is important to make sure hired technicians are experienced and trained. In addition, they should also be licensed, bonded, insured, and certified within the industry. For chimney sweeps, this certification comes from the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), and this non-profit organization also provides certifications for dryer vent exhaust technicians. At Atlas Chimney, we are proud to have both types of CSIA-certified technicians on our staff, and we would like to take this chance to tell you more about why it is so important to consider these certifications when making professional home maintenance hiring decisions.

How does a technician become certified by the CSIA?

In order to receive certification, technicians much pass two exams. They are based on Successful Chimney Sweeping, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Code 211: Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents, and Solid Fuel-Burning Appliances, and the International Residential Code. Applicants have several options from which to choose to prepare for these exams. They can do an in-person one-day review session at various locations across the country. In addition, there is a one-week seminar at the National Chimney Sweep Training School at CSIA headquarters in Plainfield, Indiana. There is also an online review course available. Once they have passed the two exams, technicians must pay dues and sign the CSIA Code of Ethics to receive certification.

Why is it so important to hire a CSIA-certified chimney sweep?

As part of the Code of Ethics, technicians pledge to keep up with updates and changes to building codes that are applicable to chimneys and fireplaces. In addition, there are new technologies in maintaining, repairing, and installing chimney and fireplace systems to follow. Another important part is trusting the integrity of our services when we come to your home. Technicians must also pledge to conduct themselves honestly and fairly on the job, which means you will not have to worry about getting an unfair or dishonest estimate from any CSIA-certified chimney sweep.

Have your chimney swept and inspected by a CSIA-certified chimney sweep! Contact us at Atlas Chimney today to schedule an appointment for our professional chimney maintenance services!

Chimney Inspection Facts

You have most likely heard that you must have your chimney professionally swept and inspected every year, but do you know why? Knowing what happens during a routine chimney maintenance appointment can help you understand why you need to schedule it. For over 25 years, Atlas Chimney has been providing professional chimney maintenance services to residents of the Austin area. We would like to tell you more about what we do when we sweep and inspect chimneys.

Creosote Removal

When you have a wood-burning fireplace, creosote is a fact of life. During the combustion process, this natural compound forms as a residue that sticks to the inner chimney walls. Over the winter, a large amount of creosote can accumulate inside your chimney, and this can cause blockages. Creosote is also highly flammable. If the internal temperature of your chimney gets hot enough, it can ignite the deposits of creosote. This will start a chimney fire. You can count on Atlas Chimney to remove every bit of creosote that has accumulated inside your chimney.

Levels of Inspections

To set the standards for chimney professionals, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) developed three levels of chimney inspections. When you have your annual chimney inspection, it is a Level One, which, according to HouseLogic, is just a visual check of the fireplace and chimney without special tools.

A Level Two is needed if you have experienced a weather event like a tornado or an earthquake. You might also need it if you have made any changes to your fireplace, or if you have bought a house. This level of inspection includes the same as the basic level as well as a check of the attic, basement, and crawl space. It also includes a video scan of the interior of your chimney.

The third level of chimney inspection is the most serious and can require the destruction of your chimney. A Level Three inspection is required when a problem is not able to be found in a Level Two inspection. Since this level of inspection is very expensive, Atlas Chimney will give you written and photographic evidence of the reasons why this level of inspection is needed.

Contact Us

Keep your chimney working safely and efficiently by scheduling your annual chimney inspection with Atlas Chimney. Contact us today for our professional chimney maintenance services.