I recently bought an older home. I want to know if the chimney is sturdy. Any clues?
Answers:
Easiest way to check a chimney is to go on the roof and just visually inspect it. Check to make sure the top is on sturdy and doesn't let rain in it. Check for loose mortar or bricks. Just check for general stuff that looks like it is deteriorating. Next check to make sure it is open all the way to the top from the basement. Use a strong flashlight to look up and down it. If you need to, use a mirror to look up it through the cleanout hole. Make sure it is empty. No creosote or anything blocking it. That's about it. Good luck!!
Other answers:
best to call in an expert to make sure there are no faulty leaks, etc. if it looks stable, and not broken, it's most likely good.
best to call in an expert to make sure there are no faulty leaks, etc. if it looks stable, and not broken, it's most likely good.
Look in the yellow pages for people specializing in chimnies, wood stoves, chimney sweeps etc. If you have a problem finding someone then you might call the local chamber of commerce or seach on the internet for specialists.