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If you’re searching for a new home and have found one that could be your next residence, the first step should be an inspection. If it is an older residence, it probably has a brick chimney built along one of the exterior walls. Should it be crumbling or have problems with the foundation, it could stick you with unexpected expenses. To prevent this kind of unwanted surprise, here’s what the home inspector will look for.

What Does a Chimney Inspection Involve?

As brick chimneys age, the foundation that supports their weight may begin to degrade. As this happens, the structure can start pulling away from the house, forcing you to replace it or remove it and patch the new gaps in the walls. Your home inspector will inform you if this is an issue, as well as look for a buildup of soot and creosote on the chimney wall. Finally, they’ll check the flashing where the chimney meets the roof to make sure it is watertight and secure.

What Are the Risks of an Unsound Chimney?

home inspectorIf left unchecked, a leaning chimney could be at risk of collapse. Even if that doesn’t happen, its leaning will put strain on other structural elements and could create cracks in your walls. A chimney that’s full of soot and creosote poses a serious fire hazard, allowing the flames to spread to other parts of your home, rather than channeling the heat and smoke away.

 

Before you sign a real estate contract, make sure you’ve had the property looked over by a home inspector, so you know the repairs and challenges that might be in store. Twin City Home Inspections Inc. serves Texas and parts of Arkansas, including Texarkana, New Boston, Mt. Pleasant, Atlanta, Hope, and Pittsburg. These experts, with over a decade of experiences, are fully licensed and insured, and provide their clients with free estimates and same-day reports. Call (903) 276-9566 or visit their website to get in touch.

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