Why You Should Not DIY When it Comes to Your Chimney

In a DIY world, there are a few things that you just shouldn't do yourself. You wouldn't pay the neighborhood handyman to build your dream home, so you shouldn't hire an amateur to work on your chimney system. Your chimney system is as important as your home, your health, and your comfort--and it affects all three. Your chimney works the entire time your fire is burning to vent your fire.

Chimney Sweep Credentials Still Matter

Credentials and standards are bigger than your fireplace and your living room. Aside from your family's health and safety, there are legal reasons to hire a professional. Most cities won't grant a building permit unless a certified professional is contracted for the job.

Nationally Recognized Credential - The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) is the go-to source for chimney safety and standards since the 1980s. A CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® (CCS) signature is the one that professionals look for on legal documents. Realtors, insurance agents, mortgage brokers, and local authorities trust the CSIA signature, and so should you.

Code of Ethics - A CSIA certified chimney sweep adheres to a stringent code of ethics designed to protect the consumer from scams. If a member is found to be in violation their certification may be revoked.

Continued Education - Every three years a CSIA member will re-certify through continued education credits or examination. This assures that chimney professionals expertise changes with the changing technologies and advancements of the industry.

A Chimney Specialists Touch

Many homeowners understand the concept of how the chimney works, but do not understand the expertise it takes to build, repair, or maintain a chimney properly. A chimney sweep should use industry-specific, refractory materials. These materials can withstand heat and abuse over time without compromising the integrity of the chimney and fireplace. A chimney sweep also knows the best, longest lasting products to install onto your chimney system to keep it lasting and working for you.

Chimney Solutions of Indiana has been operating in the Indianapolis area for years and is aware of municipal codes and manufacturer requirements. In many cases a manufacturer won't even honor a warranty agreement if the installation and maintenance isn't performed by a certified professional--sometimes even requiring specific training through the National Fireplace Institute as well as CSIA.

When it comes to work on your chimney, you don't want to risk it. Exposure to soot and creosote can cause skin irritation, respiratory distress, and other dangerous reactions, but a chimney professional takes necessary precautions to prevent this. Another benefit to scheduling routine maintenance with a chimney sweep means you can rest assured that the chimney works properly and there aren't any hidden fire risks that can lead to a house fire or illness. When it comes to your chimney system it's ALWAYS better to hire a professional. Spend a little now to save a lot in the long run. When you're ready to build, maintain, or repair your dream fireplace, hire a chimney sweep first.

Our team at Chimney Solutions Indiana is proud to serve our neighbors in Indianapolis, Carmel, Avon and the surrounding areas. A Chimney Solutions chimney expert is standing by to schedule your consultation. Call 317-757-6979 or request an appointment online now.