​Whether performing chimney inspections or reading a chimney inspection report, one thing is clear: It is hard to argue with a high-resolution picture taken during a chimney inspection with a camera showing defects deep inside the flue. A chimney inspection done with the naked eye is no comparison to an internal chimney scanning. I used a 5’ chimney prop with hidden defects in the chimney inspections and classes I taught for 21 years. Almost 99.9% of the time, the inspectors missed an opening defect within the flue by inspecting only with a flashlight and the naked eye. These defects were only 17” from their face. 

Images and videos from scanning chimneys are one part of the equation. If you read a report with multiple pictures, can you understand what the defects are and what caused them? Here are some other questions to consider:

1. Can you identify and define “What is a defect?” within the chimney interior?"
2. Can you determine how the defect was created or the most probable way it was created?
3. Did you rule out other causes and conditions, leaving probable causes as to why the defect is there?

In my forty years in the chimney industry, I have accumulated a lot of images, videos, and knowledge regarding chimney construction and defects. I have also spoken at national and state organizations and taught at a national trade organization school for over twenty years (Chimney Safety Institute of America). 

This wealth of experience led me to envision a way to share this information with the chimney industry and anyone interested in internal chimney inspections, culminating in the following book. The Chimney Scanning & Inspection Guide.
Within this book is a brief outline:

• Where to start – Use IRC, NFPA 211, local codes, or the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
• Where to put drop cloths and prepare the area for the inspection
• How does scanning chimneys fit within the Levels of Inspection (NFPA 211)? Where do the Levels of Accessibility fit into all this?
• How do structure integrity and flue condition compare to what is the ideal chimney in the code books?
• What is happening within the flue and the chimney?
• What is the probable cause of the defect or symptom, along with an explanation?

Operating a chimney camera using the proper techniques and observation skills should produce more answers regarding the flue’s condition rather than presenting more questions. Since there are many types of installation, we segmented this book into modules to provide a step-by-step approach to chimney scanning by chimney type. The modules include:
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• Scanning a Masonry Chimney and Fireplace
• Scanning a  Masonry Chimney and Fireplace with an Appliance (Hearth Stove & Insert)
• Scanning a Masonry Thimble Chimney Serving an Appliance(s) (Solid Fuel or Liquid Fuel(s)
• Scanning a Prefab Chimney and Fireplace
• Scanning a Prefab Chimney Serving an Appliance (Solid Fuel or Liquid Fuel(s)

Each installation type offers its unique challenges. We detail the differences between types of installations, including conditions to be alert for and the typical defects for each. The training modules listed above tell you the best access points and offer a step-by-step assessment process for home protection, defect diagnosis, and cleanup. If you would like more information about our books, click here. Otherwise, continue reading our blogs to learn about your interests.

Terra cotta flue tiles have been used for almost a century as an accepted liner for masonry chimneys. A brand-new flue may look like the photo shown on the right. The tile is new; it should not be broken (or, in this case, have a cutout view). 
 As the chimney is being built, flue tiles stack on each other and are mortared together with a joint. In the past, masons often used mortar such as type "S" or type "N" mortar, the same mortar they used to lay the brickwork. These mortars can erode, leading to open mortar joints and shifting flue tiles. Today, codes require a non-water-soluble refractory cement that withstands the onslaught of moisture. This creates longevity for your masonry flue. 
Equally important is a smooth interior mortar joint (specified by codes). The picture on the right is an example of a brand-new ideal joint. Mortar that protrudes into the flue can hinder flue gases and smoke. This may affect the way the fireplace burns. A smooth joint is an optimal joint.
Many other types of damage can happen to a masonry flue. To ensure your flue is in an operational-ready condition, ask the chimney sweep to continuously scan your chimney with a Chim-Scan® Internal Video Inspection System each year your chimney is cleaned.  Catching defects early and making repairs can preserve your investment in your fireplace, chimney, and home. 
#chimney inspection, #chimney camera, #chimney flue, #scanning chimney