Chimneys are a vital structural component that keeps your home safe, warm, and dry. But you may not know that your chimney has become clogged with debris. In fact, you may not realize you need a chimney inspection until the situation becomes dangerous. According to Bob Vila, approximately 25,000 chimney fires occur annually in the United States. A chimney inspection not only checks for safety concerns but also provides a detailed look at the condition of your chimney and its surrounding structure. If you aren't sure whether a chimney inspection should be on your to-do list, here are five signs your home needs one.

1. Your Fireplace Isn't Drawing Optimally

More abnormal smoke may come out of the chimney or the back of the fireplace when no fire is burning. If this is the case, an inspector should check your flue system for repairs. For example, you could have trouble removing creosote buildup in your chimney flue system. Creosote buildup can cause severe problems for chimneys.

2. There's Soot Everywhere

If you notice soot on the flue pipe inside your home or on the exterior surface where it connects to the chimney pipe system, this is a sign you need to call an inspector. Sooty deposits on floors, walls, and ceilings in closed rooms other than those where cooking activities take place are signs that warrant chimney inspection.

3. You Notice a Strong Smell

If you notice a strong smell of tar or creosote in your home, this could indicate your chimney or chimney caps have cracks. This can lead to leaking and a build-up of creosote in your home, which can have potential health consequences.

4. Your Chimney is Missing a Cap

If there's no cap on top of your flue, this could lead to serious health issues for those who use it regularly. In addition, it means you will have less control over how much smoke gets into your home, as there's no surface covering the flue pipes. It can also lead to fires if there's too much fuel stored inside the pipe system.

5. Your Chimney is Eroding

If your chimney has seen better days, some parts have likely corroded or deteriorated. Over years of use, the linings and walls of chimney stacks may be covered in soot and begin to erode. Therefore, it's essential to have your chimney inspected by a professional every year.

It's recommended that you schedule a professional chimney inspection once a year to address small problems early on and keep your family safe. Contact AllPhase Masonry and Chimney today for more information or to make an appointment.