Resources

"I don't know a lot about chimneys, or what I need." One of our industry suppliers have put together this amazing interactive website to educate our homeowners on ALL the ways we can help you with this free website: https://saversystems.com/pages/your-chimney

"I don't need an inspection, I just need you to fix the masonry" Treating only the "ugly" visible on the outside of your chimney is like putting a bandage on a skin rash caused by a serious internal infection. A full inspection is necessary because a chimney is a complex ventilation system where exterior symptoms often signal deeper, hazardous structural or operational failures. 1. External Damage is a "Late-Stage" Warning Visible issues like spalling bricks (flaking/peeling) or efflorescence (white powdery stains) are rarely just cosmetic. Water Migration: Efflorescence indicates that water is already traveling through the masonry, pushing minerals to the surface. Freeze-Thaw Damage: Bricks only start to crumble after significant moisture has been trapped inside for multiple freeze-thaw cycles, weakening the entire structure's stability. 2. Hidden "Silent Killers" The most dangerous chimney problems are completely invisible from the outside: Flue Liner Breaches: Even if the exterior looks perfect, the internal flue liner—which contains heat and toxic gases—can have small cracks. These cracks allow carbon monoxide to seep into your home or high heat to reach flammable attic beams. Creosote Accumulation: This highly flammable byproduct of wood-burning builds up on the inside of the flue. A clean-looking exterior offers no protection against a sudden chimney fire fueled by internal creosote. 3. Root Cause vs. Symptom Patching external mortar without a full inspection often leads to repeat failures because the root cause remains unaddressed: The "Roof Myth": Homeowners often blame a roof leak for ceiling stains, when the true source is a cracked chimney crown, a faulty flashing seal, or a missing chimney cap. Structural Shifting: Cracks on the outside might be caused by foundation settling. Fixing the crack without checking the foundation or the internal alignment is a temporary fix for a permanent structural problem. 4. Professional Diagnostic Levels To truly find the root cause, professionals use standardized NFPA inspection levels: Level 1: Basic visual check of accessible areas. Level 2: Includes video scanning to see the internal condition of the flue, essential after any change in fuel type or a chimney fire. Level 3: Invasive inspection where parts of the chimney or wall may be removed to check concealed areas if serious structural hazards are suspected. This is why a complete chimney inspection is crucial to identify and fix underlying issues, beyond superficial exterior damage.

"I want an insert installed in my prefab/factory built fireplace" The Danger: Why "Inserts" Don't Fit Prefab Fireplaces Most homeowners don't realize that a factory-built fireplace is a tested, engineered system. Adding an unapproved insert into one is like putting a high-performance racing engine into a compact car—the chassis isn't built for it. Risk of Pyrolysis: Prefab units use specific air channels to keep surrounding wood framing cool. An insert can block these vents, causing the wood to chemically change over time (pyrolysis), which lowers its ignition temperature and can lead to a sudden house fire. Structural Failure: A heavy cast-iron insert can weigh 400+ lbs. Factory-built units are made of relatively thin metal and were never designed to support that kind of weight. Voided Safety Listings: Most prefab units are tested to UL 127 standards, which do not cover the use of inserts. Installing one often voids your homeowner’s insurance and violates NFPA 211 safety codes. Safe Alternatives for Homeowners If you want to upgrade your prefab fireplace, you have three primary safe paths: Full Unit Replacement: Remove the existing prefab unit entirely and install a new, high-efficiency Zero-Clearance (ZC) fireplace. These are modern, self-contained systems designed to be framed directly into wood walls. Electric Log Sets: Since they don't produce real fire or extreme heat, electric log inserts are a safe way to get the "look" of a fire without any structural risk. Approved Gas Logs: Some prefab units allow for specific vented gas log sets. Check your fireplace’s original manual or the metal data plate inside the firebox for approved accessories. Important Safety Steps Find Your Model: Look for the metal rating plate inside the fireplace opening. It lists the manufacturer and model number. Consult a Pro: Always have a CSIA-certified chimney sweep or an NFI-certified technician inspect your system before making changes. Install Detectors: If using any fuel-burning appliance, ensure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every floor.

The Blame Game- when the system fails and you pay the price In the aftermath of a chimney fire or other damage, the tension between insurance companies and local code enforcement often determines whether your claim is paid or denied. Insurers frequently use code violations or lack of maintenance as grounds for denial, while code enforcement's role is to ensure safety and compliance with local laws. The Code Enforcement Conflict: Local code enforcement officials play a pivotal role that can either validate your claim or provide the insurer with ammunition for denial. The "Backing You Up" Scenario: If a code official determines the system was compliant at the time of the fire or that the fire resulted from a "covered peril" (like a sudden accident) rather than long-term neglect, their report can be used to challenge a denial. The "Blame Game" Scenario: If enforcement finds the chimney was installed incorrectly or failed to meet NFPA 211 standards (which mandate annual inspections), the insurance company may label this as negligence or defective work, both common reasons for denying a claim. To protect yourself, your family, your home, and your savings, we highly encourage you establish a relationship with your local code enforcement agency, and make sure their records indicate proper installation and maintenance of your system, so that they are in your corner if the worst happens.