Chimney Sweeping & Repair in Alexandria, VA

The Washington Reagan Ap station averages 60 nights a year at or below 32°F and 10 at or below 20°F.^1,2 Repeated freeze-thaw cycles open small masonry cracks; an inspection should include the crown, the cap and the condition of the flue tiles. The median home in the city of Alexandria was built in 1974, older than the U.S. median of 1980 and older than the Virginia median of 1984.³ Older masonry chimneys may be unlined or have cracked clay tile liners; a Level 2 camera inspection is the standard way to confirm the liner before the first fire of the season.

Somewhat more of Alexandria's housing predates 1980 than the national share: 60% against 50%, with 11% built since 2010.³ Rainfall is substantial: about 42 inches a year, 10 days of it an inch or more.^1,2 Heavy rain tests the flashing and crown; most chimney leaks enter there rather than through the brick, and the inspection report should say which. Snowfall averages about 14 inches a year.^1,2

Heating dominates the year: about 3,769 heating degree days against 1,738 cooling degree days (base 65°F).^1,2 In a heating-led climate, insulation and air sealing carry most of the energy-code weight for any work that opens the envelope. Building permits in Alexandria are normally issued by the city, which is not part of a county.^4,5 Where a liner or rebuild needs a permit, the contractor files it with the city before work starts.