Almost 20 years later, we’re still seeing the effects of the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake.  “Huh,” you say?  

When was the last time you had your chimney inspected?  Ever? 

In the San Mateo County area, the damage caused by the earthquake was limited.  But most people didn’t think about their masonry chimney, nor did they have it inspected.  When do most folks have their homes inspected?  Why, at the time of sale, of course.  

In one sale in which I represented the buyer, the inspector advised that the chimney was so damaged that no one should have ever had a fire.  The concrete between the bricks was so deteriorated that an ember could have easily made its way into the wall starting a deadly fire.  The frightened seller was shocked; they had had regularly blazes, especially during those chilly Pacifica nights - in other words, it wasn’t necessarily winter. 

Depending on your usage, you should have your fireplace cleaned every 1 to 2 years.  In order to inspect it, they have to clean it.  So you get two jobs done at the same time.

I most often use ABA Chimney.  888-766-8373.  Take care of that now, while you’re thinking about it.