Inspecting the chimney and fireplace in Fontainebleau
We check the lining, damper, crown, cap and flashing and explain how each affects safe use.
- Owned and run locally
- Available for same-day service
- Fully licensed and insured
- Family owned and run
What people notice before an inspection
- A missing or loose chimney cap
- Roof work finished around the chimney
- A fireplace sealed by a previous owner
- Plans to add an insert
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Inspection decisions for your fireplace
Inspecting a stucco-finished chimney
A chimney finished in stucco may cover masonry block or a framed chase. The two assemblies behave differently, and a crack means more on one than the other. Staining, bulges or soft spots can point to water behind the finish.
We tap and look where the finish can be reached and ask what you know about how the chimney was built. If the assembly behind the stucco cannot be confirmed, the record says so. Any repair recommendation explains which layer it addresses.
Where the crown meets the flue liner
Where the crown of a masonry chimney meets the flue liner, the Florida Building Code calls for a caulked bond break. A crown shrinks as it cures and moves with heat. Brick industry guidance explains that a bond break lets it move without distressing the brickwork, and that the joint at the liner should be sealed against water.
We look at the joint when the roof can be reached and note cracks, gaps and failed sealant. Cracks that ring the flue can point to a rigid joint rather than wear across the whole crown. We explain whether resealing the joint is enough or the crown itself needs work. Either repair is priced on its own.
How inspection findings are ranked
Not every finding needs action now. We sort what we see into three kinds: conditions that affect safe use, conditions that will get worse if left, and wear that can be watched. The ranking is explained along with each item.
That helps you plan. A cracked lining that lets heat reach the masonry comes before a stained crown. A small gap that lets water in comes before a patch of surface staining. You decide the order, but you decide it with the reasons in hand.
Outside air inlets serving the fireplace
Some fireplaces draw combustion air through an inlet from outside, with its own small damper or grille. The Florida Building Code's chimney and fireplace chapter includes a section on exterior air supply. If an inlet exists, it needs to be clear and working.
We look for the inlet inside the firebox or hearth and outside the house where it can be found. Blocked grilles, missing screens and stuck dampers are noted. If an inlet was covered over during later work, we explain what that may change.
The inspection scope agreed at the start
- Crown condition at the chimney top
- Exterior brick, stone or stucco
- Concealed parts named as concealed
- Signs of animals or nesting
Common questions about chimney checks
Do you go up on the roof during an inspection?
When the roof can be reached and walked safely, yes, because the crown, cap and flashing are often where problems start. If it cannot, we look from the ground or a ladder and say what that view could not show.
Is an inspection the same as a chimney cleaning?
No. The inspection evaluates the chimney and fireplace. A cleaning removes deposits. If heavy soot hides the lining, we may suggest cleaning before the lining can be judged, and we say whether that would change your decision.
Is a chimney that serves a gas appliance included?
Yes. We identify the flue and look at its condition and the top as far as access allows. The appliance itself is a separate gas service matter, and we tell you when it needs that visit.
More Ways to Care for Your Fireplace
- Chimney Leak RepairFind the chimney water entry point and plan a repair before restoring the damaged finish.
- Chimney Flashing RepairRepair the chimney-to-roof connection with a scope that accounts for the adjoining roofing and masonry.
- Chimney TuckpointingRenew deteriorated mortar joints around chimney bricks that can appropriately remain.
- Chimney Crown RepairRepair the damaged chimney top with an approach matched to the crown and supporting masonry.
- Prefab and Zero-Clearance Fireplace RepairIdentify and repair manufactured fireplace components using the appropriate model information.
Proudly American
Local service. Careful repairs. A fireplace worth coming home to.
Call Now (645) 465-4171We received your request
Our team will contact you to arrange your inspection.
Chimney & Fireplace Brands We Work With
DuraVent 
Olympia Chimney and Venting 
Copperfield Chimney Supply 
Rutland 
Heatilator 
Heat & Glo