HOFFMAN MASONRY FAQs

In the lower firebox area we look for any types of voids (Cracks), or holes that water may be able to come through and damage your house, ultimately helping to prevent interior rot and dangerous mold issues.  We also check the rear and side walls of your firebox to make sure they are structurally sound and do not seem to be hollow. The damper is checked to make sure it is in good working condition. We check to see if there is gas in the fireplace, and if it is present it is checked to ensure proper installation and function. On the upper portion of the chimney inspection, we first check the chimney structure itself to make sure it is strong and sound, or if it is faulty and needs repair. This is done by doing what is referred to in the industry as a “push test” on the chimney which is  explained on our Testing Procedures page of the website. We also check for cracked or broken flu tiles in the chimney system which must also be replaced or repaired to prevent damage to the house. We always make sure that your chimney has a Spark Arrester, also known as a rain cap, which helps prevent your roof from catching fire and your chimney from rotting due to excessive moisture. We also check for any signs of chimney fire damage, cracks or voids on the exterior of the chimney, which in most cases we can repair quite easily.

Inspection times tend to vary, depending on how many chimneys you have in your home. Usually, if there is one chimney in your house, your house is one story, and there is no need for cleaning, the inspection can usually be done in less than a half hour. On the other hand,  if you have a two story home with 3-4 chimneys you can approximate an additional fifteen minutes per chimney. If your chimneys need a cleaning, plan an additional half hour for each chimney.

-Be sure the damper is open in your firebox.

-Is the Heater in your home turned off? Cold air return in the chimney will create a down draft, returning smoke into your house.
        
-Open doors and windows can also create a down draft effect.

-The  type of grate used effects the draw, so make sure the grate is pushed all the way to the rear of the firebox. Grates put up on blocks or bricks do not help the chimney air flow. We recommend using a Sampson grate.
 
-The type of  wood  you use also effects the way your chimney  draws, we recommend using oak wood. We do not recommend the use of manufactured waxed base logs (ie Duraflame) as they do not create enough heat for a fireplace to draft properly.
    
-A very cold night can create a down draft effect. A nice trick before you start your fireplace is to crumple paper near the damper and light it. Watch the direction of smoke, and ensure that it moves in the proper direction.
  
-If all else fails and your chimney continues to smoke, we recommend having an inspection by a licensed contractor and having them put glass doors on the fireplace.