Student discussions of "How to Inspect Fireplaces, Stoves, & Chimneys" course

Research & Writing Assignment:

They are five classifications for fire extinguishers based on the fuel source and type or types of fire they can extinguish. It is extremely important to use the correct type of extinguisher. Using the wrong type of extinguisher can actually be worse than not using an extinguisher at all.

Research & Writing Assignment:

The other important function of chimneys, especially those serving solid fuel burning appliances like wood stoves or fireplaces, is to keep excessive heat from combustible materials that surround the chimney. … They can then ignite surrounding combustible framing members of a house.

Inspection & Writing Assignment:

Masonry chimney leaning needs to be braced. Reccomend contacting chimney repair specialist to further investigate.
Chimney Cap Missing

Cracked chimney cap was observed. This is important to protect from moisture intrusion and protect the chimney. Recommend a qualified roofer or chimney expert repair or new cap install.

Inspection & Writing Assignment:

Here is a fireplace that uses natural gas a fuel source. There is no glass door so a metal mesh screen is being used, which is fine. The rug is located in a hazardous position too close to the fireplace. It is recommended that the rug be moved at least 3 feet away from the fireplace.

Research & Writing Assignment:

Chimneys should be inspected carefully due to their weight and vulnerability. They should be inspected to ensure that all mortar joints are secure and don’t crack when probed with a screwdriver. They require proper support, typically with the use of steel straps. Also look for visible tilting of the chimney that may lead to separation.

Inspection & Writing Assignment:

It is important when examining the chimney to pay close attention to the fire box. From my past experience I have found that 3 out 10 fireboxes that i examine have cracks in them. This Condition is easy rectified in most case but should always be further evaluated and repaired by a specialist.

Research & Writing Assignment:

With HUD changing the regulations on vent-less fireplaces it is ever more important to inquire with your client the type of loan they are doing. I would also make a point to list these types of fireplace on the inspection report.

Inspection & Writing Assignment:

This fireplace inspection had a common defect in that the gas inlet into the firebox did not have the proper and required sealant application at the wall. A fire rated sealant or high temperature caulk is required to prevent super heated gases from entering into the surrounding chase.

Research & Writing Assignment:

A vent free gas log fireplace was observed in the house. Vent-less fireplaces and gas logs have very precise installation guidelines and operational procedures. We advise verifying that the unit was installed under a permit in accordance with manufacturer guidelines. You should read the owner’s manuals before use and follow all manufacturer instructions. Some require operation with a window partially open and minimum room size requirements likely apply. Installation of a carbon monoxide monitor is also advised.

Inspection & Writing Assignment:

This manufactured fireplace has refractory panels to limit heat in the firebox. Several small cracks can be seen forming in the back and bottom panels. Excessive heat transfer through the cracks can heat the metal shell and wood framing causing a fire. It is recommended that the fireplace be looked at and repaired by a professional.

Inspection & Writing Assignment:

Its important that the home owner understands that this was a visual inspection only. A licensed chimney sweep should perform a technically trained inspection before use. Also, it is recommended that it is swept once a year by a licensed chimney sweep. Adding glass doors to a fireplace helps reduce room heat loss.

Research & Writing Assignment:

Fire extinguishers have a limited life and any questionable extinguisher should be replaced. No one type of fire extinguisher is designed for all fire types. There is a classification on the fire extinguisher that indicates their different ratings. They are as follows ; A,B,C,D,K.

Inspection & Writing Assignment:

An exposed electrical cable (lamp cord material) was found to be in use as permanent wiring at the ceiling fan on the deck and in the master bedroom closet. Lamp cord is not rated for use in distribution wiring. We suggest improvement to replace this electrical cable with one rated for this use and to protect the electrical cable from damage. Installing electrical conduit piping or fabricating a cover as needed, should be undertaken to correct this condition.

Research & Writing Assignment:

There are four classes of fire extinguishers A, B, C, D, & K.

Class A extinguishers will put out fires in ordinary combustibles such as wood and paper
Class B extinguishers are for use on flammable liquids like grease, gasoline and oil
Class C extinguishers are suitable for use only on electrically energized fires
Class D extinguishers are designed for use on flammable metals
Class K extinguishers are for use on fires of cooking oils and greases such as animal and vegetable fats.

There are also multipurpose extinguishers which can be used on different types of fires and will be labeled with more than one class, such as A-B, B-C or A-B-C.

Inspection & Writing Assignment:

In this image, you will notice that proper step flashing and counter flashing was utilized. The counter flashing is to be inserted into the mortar joints 1". Apron flashing is apparent as well. There needs to be a chimney cap and spark arrestor installed on this chimney.

Research & Writing Assignment:

In the Cricket image you will notice the structure installed on the backside of a chimney. This is installed in order to divert water away from the chimney and should be considered whenever the chimney is 30" wide or more.

Inspection & Writing Assignment:

Enclosed is a photo of a class 2 chimney. As you can see, there is protection (by way of a thimble) thru the wall. But, the chimney is missing a support, as the chimney is leaning. Also the chimney is to short for being that close the the opposing wall.

Research & Writing Assignment:

When i would start an inspection of a brick chimney, i would start with and damage to the chimney. Look for structural support and ties to the building. I would also inspect the morter joint for damage and note it there is.

Inspection & Writing Assignment:

On inspection of living room floor noticed moisture below a house plant that had a crack in its pan which aloud water too leak on the floor which ecentually ended up on the ceiling in the basement. This went from a major job to a minor fhx

Inspection & Writing Assignment:

In this image, the flue of the chimney has been cracked and a significant portion of the brick is exposed. This can be a fire hazard and needs to be replaced. The whole flue should be taken out at this point and the fireplace refitted.