Homeowners should carefully consider several aspects when selecting chimney repair companies, including price, certifications, experience and insurance coverage.
Some chimney repair issues require immediate attention, including cracks in brick structures that allow carbon monoxide into your home or clogged flues that may lead to smoke or fire. Other repairs may not be as critical, yet still must be completed quickly.
Reputation
Chimney repair can be hazardous work, and you should select professionals with a strong reputation in your locality. Make sure you obtain references from former clients as well as online reviews before deciding who you work with.
A reliable chimney service company should offer comprehensive cleaning and repair services, from maintenance to restoration. A good repair company should prioritise long-term solutions over quick fixes – if a chimney repair company suggests simply sealing cracks with sealant it’s time to find another contractor.
Always look for a chimney repair company that has sufficient insurance. Any reputable chimney repair service should provide proof of insurance directly from their insurer, giving you peace of mind in case anything untoward happens. In an ideal world, these policies would cover both business liability and workers’ compensation issues.
Certifications
The chimney and venting system is a complicated structure that must be in good condition to effectively protect a home against fires, water damage and carbon monoxide poisoning. Unfortunately, its condition can become compromised over time due to exposure to harsh weather, high temperatures or chemicals such as creosote.
Frequent chimney cleanings will remove creosote buildup and the risk of fires, as well as prevent creosote deposits from building up in your flue lining and reduce replacement needs. Chimneys that have not been regularly maintained may become vulnerable to water and rot damage and structural damages in your home due to not receiving regular care and attention.
When selecting a chimney repair company, prioritise those certified by both CSIA and NFI. Be wary of companies offering certifications without real substance; ask about credentials before searching online to verify claims made about them.
Experience
Chimneys and stacks can be exposed to environmental conditions that exacerbate their deterioration over time, including wood tar creosote, condensation, rainwater run-off, thermal variations and lightning strikes. All of these environmental threats pose threats both externally to their structure as well as internally to its interior components.
An experienced masonry repair company can assess and treat these conditions effectively. A thorough chimney and stack condition assessment can identify any major damage and suggest appropriate repair solutions to restore your system back into good working order.
Ask prospective companies about their experience and customer satisfaction ratings, certification from the Chimney Safety Institute of America or similar reputable bodies and whether they provide annual service plans or discounts for customers as this can reduce repair costs over time and save you money over time.
Insurance
Ideal chimney repair companies will be fully-insured, to protect both you, your house, and their technicians in case any accidents occur during repairs. Furthermore, flexible financing should also be offered by them to help cover expenses not covered by home insurance policies.
Many homeowners’ insurance policies include coverage for unexpected events, like weather-related damage to your chimney system. But it’s unlikely your insurer will cover damages caused by poor maintenance or age; to demonstrate you were vigilant in caring for it, keep records of inspections, repair work estimates, and estimates as proof. This should strengthen your case when filing an insurance claim.
Pricing
Transparency when it comes to pricing can be invaluable when looking for chimney repair companies. Being aware of their fees will also help when making your choice of repair service provider.
Chimney stacks are often exposed to harsh elements and can sustain severe damage over time. Repointing or tuckpointing are commonly employed to repair an aged stack for between $150-$500 in repair costs.
Selecting an excellent local chimney professional is vitally important to meeting home owner’s insurance requirements and protecting your family from fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. Seek advice from trusted friends, neighbors and professionals, then conduct extensive research before getting multiple quotes from qualified chimney services in your area. Be sure to inquire about extra services they may offer like maintenance plans or annual inspections.
