Hiring a chimney sweep in Marietta, GA, may sound old fashioned, but it’s essential if you want to enjoy your fireplace. Your chimney needs periodic cleaning and inspection to continue operating as expected. Chimneys can get clogged or damaged, and they can get progressively worse if not inspected regularly. Fortunately, budgeting for a chimney inspection isn’t complicated.
Consider the Total Cost
Most chimney inspections are no more than $400. If performed annually and without any sign of poor performance or damage, a level 1 inspection is perfectly fine. A level 2 inspection is appropriate if you’ve recently moved into the home and don’t yet know how the chimney performs. It’s also recommended if you plan to make adjustments or updates to the chimney. If there has recently been a fire in the chimney or you suspect it could be otherwise damaged, a level 2 inspection is a good idea.
Level 3 inspections are rare. These inspections are only necessary if the initial level 1 or 2 inspections has revealed serious issues. A dilapidated home that you’re looking to restore or renovate may need a level 3 inspection if there’s obvious damage to the chimney’s structure. Otherwise, a level 1 inspection is more than adequate under most circumstances.
Of course, level 2 or 3 inspections have larger price tags. This is one of the reasons that annual inspections are recommended. A regularly inspected and cleaned chimney is unlikely to have any need for a more thorough and time-consuming inspection. Additionally, you should be able to avoid serious repairs or added costs. If you want to take care of the chimney cleaning at the same time, be certain that you include the inspection and cleaning as part of the total bill. Keeping these numbers in mind allows you to know how much you need to set aside.
Have a Timetable
As noted previously, cleanings and inspections both tend to be performed annually. This means that you have a year to save the money and budget for the inspection. This may seem like ample time, but the season can arrive before you know it. It’s easy to get caught up with things and forget.
This is why establishing a timetable is a good idea. If you know you want to hit your halfway mark by a certain date, you can schedule specific paychecks or pay periods for putting away a specified amount of money. Generally, it’s best to have a separate savings account for this sort of expense. This means you won’t see your progress every day, but it does mean you’re less likely to dip into these funds.
Check Your Progress
Out of sight can be out of mind, and this is something that you should avoid. Check your chimney savings once a month or every other payday. This enables you to hold yourself accountable, but it also ensures you know whether you’re right on target, falling behind, or ahead of the curve. There’s no need to berate yourself for not keeping up, but it’s worth knowing where you are in terms of your budget and target goal.
Assume the Unexpected
It’s not uncommon for the price of inspections to go up. Of course, you may need repairs, cleaning, or other work to be done. This all adds together to increase the total cost. Assume that the price might increase or that other services could be required and plan accordingly.
A chimney sweep in Marietta, GA, does fantastically valuable work, which can help you stay cozy and protect your home at the same time. Luckily, budgeting for a chimney inspection isn’t complicated. Contact Atlanta Chimney Doctor at (678) 525-7943 to receive a quote or to learn more.