🧰 Chimney Inspection in MN: What to Expect and Why It Matters

Before fireplace season begins, a chimney inspection is one of the most important home safety checks you can make. Whether you live in Saint Paul, Maple Grove, Chaska, or Hudson, getting a chimney inspection in MN helps ensure your chimney is clean, safe, and code-compliant before the cold weather sets in.

At Chimney Crickets, our certified technicians perform thorough inspections using professional tools and years of masonry expertise. Here’s exactly what you can expect during your chimney inspection—and why you shouldn’t skip it this year.

🏠 Step-by-Step: What Happens During a Chimney Inspection

1. Visual Assessment (Level 1 Inspection)

Our techs begin with a basic visual check of all readily accessible chimney components. This includes:

• Firebox and damper

• Hearth, smoke chamber, and flue opening

• Exterior masonry, flashing, and chimney cap

We look for signs of soot buildup, rust, cracks, moisture stains, or deterioration.

2. Chimney Camera Scan (Level 2 Inspection)

We use a special video camera to scan the flue from top to bottom. This high-definition scope allows us to detect:

• Cracks in flue tiles

• Missing mortar joints

• Blockages or debris

• Evidence of past chimney fires

This scan provides the clearest insight into the health of your chimney liner and overall venting system.

3. Creosote and Soot Check

During the scan, we also assess the level of creosote buildup inside the flue. If it’s more than 1/8″, a cleaning will be recommended. Excess creosote is the #1 cause of chimney fires, and it forms faster than many homeowners realize.

4. Leak and Moisture Inspection

We check chimney crowns, flashing, mortar joints, and caps for signs of water entry. Moisture is your chimney’s worst enemy, especially in Minnesota and Wisconsin’s freeze-thaw climate.

5. Draft Testing and Damper Function

A draft test ensures smoke and gases are properly venting. We also check the damper for proper sealing, smooth operation, and rust.

6. Written Report and Recommendations

After the inspection, you’ll receive a clear report that outlines:

• The condition of your chimney system

• Any concerns found during the inspection

• Recommended services like cleaning, tuckpointing, or liner repair

🛑 Why You Shouldn’t Skip a Chimney Inspection

Skipping your annual chimney inspection could mean:

• Fire hazards go unnoticed

• Leaks silently damage your home

• Carbon monoxide backdrafts go undetected

• Costlier repairs come later

A chimney inspection costs far less than the average fire or moisture damage repair—and it protects your home and family.

🧱 Trusted in MN & WI Since 1987

From Bloomington to Stillwater and Red Wing to Hudson, Chimney Crickets has helped over 20,000 homeowners keep their chimneys safe and efficient. Our team is fully trained, licensed, and ready for fall.