by admin | Dec 29, 2022 | NJ Chimney Repair, NJ Chimney Sweep
Do you know the last time you had your chimney inspected and cleaned by a chimney sweep? Staying on top of your chimney is important, especially if you use your wood fireplace on a regular basis. Failing to sweep it every so often or leaving damage unaddressed can cause serious risks, including a house fire. Beyond just not having it swept in a long time, there are some are signs that would indicate that it’s time to contact your local Mercer County chimney sweep for chimney services. Below we will go over what to look for so you’ll know if you need to sweep or repair your chimney.
Signs that You Need Chimney Services in Mercer County
1. Creosote buildup:
The build-up of creosote in your chimney can be a major sign that it’s time for a chimney sweep. Creosote is an oily substance that forms when the gases from your fireplace or wood stove heat up and condense on the chimney walls. Over time, this residue will accumulate and may even start to create flammable deposits known as chimney tar. If this happens, your chimney needs to be swept right away before it has a chance to cause a fire.
2. Rust and corrosion:
Another telltale sign of a dirty chimney is rust and corrosion on the metal parts of your chimney system, such as the damper and cap. If you notice these signs, it could mean that your chimney is blocked by soot and other debris, which can allow moisture to seep in. This can damage the metal components of your chimney over time, potentially causing leaks and further chimney issues down the line.
3. Smoke or odor:
If you’re noticing a lot of smoke billowing out from your chimney when you use it, this could be a sign that something is blocking the airflow at the base of your chimney. In addition to smoke, you may also notice an unpleasant odor coming from your chimney. If this happens, contact a chimney sweep immediately for a thorough inspection and cleaning to get rid of any blockages and prevent air flow issues in the future.
4. Cracks or gaps:
Another sign that your chimney is in need of a cleaning is if you notice any cracks or gaps in the chimney walls or components. These issues can allow water to seep into your chimney and damage it from the inside out, so it’s important to address them as quickly as possible by hiring a chimney sweep in Mercer County.
5. Chimney blockage:
If you’re noticing black, sooty buildup at the base of your chimney that seems resistant to removal with standard cleaning methods, it could be an indication that there’s something more serious going on. This could be an indication that you’ve got an obstruction blocking the flow of smoke and gases up and out of your chimney, and you should contact a chimney sweep as soon as possible to perform a thorough inspection and cleaning.
6. Loud creaking or cracking sounds:
Finally, if you hear any loud creaking or cracking sounds coming from your chimney, this could be a sign that there’s something wrong with the masonry of your chimney. This could indicate that there are cracks or gaps in the mortar joints, which can allow water to seep inside and damage the structure over time. Contacting a chimney sweep right away is the best way to prevent these kinds of issues from getting worse. With regular chimney inspections and cleanings by a professional chimney sweep in Mercer County, you can help keep your chimney in good shape and prevent chimney-related problems from occurring down the road.
Looking for an Experienced Chimney Sweep in the Mercer County, New Jersey Area?
Looking for the best Mercer County chimney cleaning services? Contact St. John Chimney Sweeps to inspect your fireplace and have it cleaned. St. John Chimney Sweeps has been in business for over 15 years. We are a full service chimney and fireplace sweeping and installation company in Princeton, New Jersey. We offer 100% customer satisfaction and a no mess guarantee. Our products also come with a lifetime warranty. The employees at St. John Chimney Sweeps go through an extensive training and have earned certificates, which permit them to do the job right. We are honest and efficient in all our jobs. We are also a licensed and insured company. St John Chimney Sweeps is the most trusted New Jersey chimney sweep company. We have the experience and skills to far exceed your expectations. Give us a call today. We encourage you to look through our website and see all we have to offer.
Related NJ Chimney Sweep Posts:
Mercer County Chimney Sweep
Princeton Chimney Sweep
Princeton Area Chimney Sweep
Ewing Area Chimney Sweep
Trenton Area Chimney Sweep
NJ Chimney Repair
Chimney Sweep Mercer County
Chimney Service in Mercer County
by admin | Nov 7, 2022 | NJ Fireplace Services
Chimneys and fireplaces are often overlooked parts of a home but, especially if they’re used during colder months, require some attention to ensure safety. While it may not seem necessary, scheduling routine Mercer County fireplace sweeping services should be on your list of home maintenance projects. So why exactly is fireplace sweeping so important to stay on top of it as a homeowner? Below we will go over the top reasons to have your chimney and fireplace cleaned on a routine basis.
Mercer County Fireplace Sweeping | Importance of Maintaining Your Fireplace and Chimney
Helps Prevent Fires:
Firstly, getting Mercer County fireplace sweeping services will help prevent fires. During a fire, creosote builds up on the inner walls of your chimney and can reach hazardous levels. This highly flammable substance can ignite and lead to chimney fires, which can spread quickly to the rest of your home. Fireplace sweeping removes this build-up before it becomes a problem.
Helps Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning:
In addition, Mercer County fireplace cleaning also helps prevent carbon monoxide poisoning in your home. Poorly maintained chimneys and fireplaces can lead to improper ventilation and allow for carbon monoxide to seep into the air you and your family breathe. Routine fireplace sweeping ensures that there are no blockages or build-up preventing proper air flow in your chimney.
Increases the Efficiency of Your FireplaceL
Lastly, fireplace sweeping in Mercer County will improve the efficiency and performance of your fireplace. When a chimney is clogged with creosote or debris, it can cause smoke to back up into your home rather than properly venting outside. Fireplace cleaning helps keep your fireplace functioning at its best and keeps smoke out of your living space.
Overall, regularly scheduling fireplace sweeping in Mercer County not only helps prevent potentially dangerous situations but also improves the overall performance and experience of using your fireplace or chimney. Keep yourself and your family safe by staying on top of this important home maintenance task.
Looking for an Experienced and Professional Company for Fireplace Sweeping in the Mercer County, New Jersey Area?
Searching for the best Mercer County fireplace cleaning or chimney cleaning services? Contact St. John Chimney Sweeps to inspect your fireplace and have it cleaned. St. John Chimney Sweeps has been in business for over 15 years. We are a full service chimney and fireplace sweeping and installation company in Princeton, New Jersey. We offer 100% customer satisfaction and a no mess guarantee. Our products also come with a lifetime warranty. The employees at St. John Chimney Sweeps go through an extensive training and have earned certificates, which permit them to do the job right. We are honest and efficient in all our jobs. We are also a licensed and insured company. St John Chimney Sweeps is the most trusted New Jersey chimney sweep company. We have the experience and skills to far exceed your expectations. Give us a call today. We encourage you to look through our website and see all we have to offer.
Related NJ Chimney Sweep Posts:
Mercer County Chimney Sweep
Princeton Chimney Sweep
Princeton Area Chimney Sweep
Ewing Area Chimney Sweep
Trenton Area Chimney Sweep
NJ Chimney Repair
Chimney Sweep Mercer County
Chimney Service in Mercer County
Top Signs that it’s Time to Service Your Chimney
by admin | Oct 22, 2022 | NJ Chimney Repair, Uncategorized
Do you know if you are in need of Mercer County chimney repair? You can’t always tell by looking at it that your chimney isn’t safe and in working condition. However, there are some visible signs that indicate Mercer County chimney repair may be needed. Since chimney safety is part of safety from obvious fire hazards, every homeowner with a chimney should become familiar with telltale signs of damage.
Signs that You Need Mercer County Chimney Repair Services
- Damaged Mortar Joints: It may require a rooftop vantage point to spot, but damaged mortar joints between chimney masonry is an issue which should be hastily repaired. Failing mortar joints can mean accelerated damage to the chimney, since the condition exposes the bricks to greater amounts of moisture. When water gets into small cracks in the masonry, they can turn into large cracks, particularly as a result of freezing and thawing. Ultimately, if the problem isn’t addressed, the chimney could collapse.
- Rusted Damper or Firebox: Signs of moisture in a chimney or fireplace are red flags that the chimney isn’t operating the way it should. Rust is one clue that there is too much moisture, and you may see rust in the firebox or on the damper. You’ll know to take a close look at the damper if it becomes difficult to operate or if it isn’t sealing properly. Moisture in the chimney which causes rusting can create numerous problems, including causing flue tiles to crack. A cracked or deteriorated flue lining is highly dangerous, since it could allow too much heat into vulnerable areas and cause a house fire.
- Spalling Bricks: Spalling occurs when water enters brick, natural stone, or concrete and forces the surface of the masonry to pop out, peel off, or flake off. Sometimes salt also pushes outward from the inside and causes spalling. It’s fairly simple to spot spalling, since bits of masonry fall from the chimney. The ultimate outcome of failing to repair spalling masonry is continued crumbling and eventual destruction of the structure.
- Shaling Flue Tiles: Thin slices of chimney tile can begin to pile up at the bottom of the chimney, if the liner is damaged. Cracked and shaling flue tiles are signs of a serious condition which, if not resolved, could result in a house fire. The flue lining of a chimney must be intact in order to safely use a fireplace. Many people today are switching to stainless steel liners, which usually carry lifetime warranties. While shaling flue tiles can become evident, identifying cracked flue liners often requires an inspection by a professional chimney sweep who uses a special camera. The camera can spotlight potential problems in the flue which are difficult if not impossible to see otherwise.
- Cracked Chimney Crown: Another problem that requires a visit to the rooftop to spot is a damaged chimney crown. It’s important for the crown to be in good condition, since it provides a first line of defense against outdoor elements. When the crown is cracked, water gets in and freezes and thaws, causing larger cracks. A damaged chimney crown allows moisture to seep between the chimney and the liner as well as into the chimney, which can cause shaling and spalling. A great preventative measure against this type of damage is to weatherproof the chimney crown.
- Damaged Wallpaper: If you notice that the wallpaper is damaged in areas near the chimney, it could be because of excess moisture in the chimney. Whether the moisture problem is caused by above-named conditions or others that are less obvious, you should look into Mercer County chimney repair sooner rather than later.
Looking for the Best Mercer County Chimney Repair Services?
If you are looking for the best Mercer County NJ chimney services, you’ve come to the right place! For well over 20 years, St John has been providing hundreds of satisfied homeowners with safe chimneys and cozy winters. Our licensed and insured company is also a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) and most of our quality products come with a lifetime warranty. St John is an honest family owned company that takes pride in our positive reputation in the community. For a free Hopewell Chimney Inspection estimate, contact now at (609) 737-0133 or visit the website.
Mercer County Chimney Sweeps Home Page
by admin | Oct 19, 2022 | NJ Fireplace Services
It’s that time of year where people enjoy the warmth of a fire to stay warm and cozy. But, it doesn’t have to be a wood fire and all the mess that goes with it. Gas fireplaces are a growing trend that continues to grow. That does not change the aesthetic appear of the fireplace in wintertime, and year-round use as a decoration. Since no actual combustion is involved, they can be placed almost anywhere in your home. Little price difference exists between them and the old-fashioned wood fire stoves. However, they are more affordable in the long run of fireplaces due to energy use and ventilation. In order to stay warm and safe, however, fireplaces are important to maintain.
Chimney repair in Mercer County is easy when you seek it through the proper professional channels. To maintain and clean your gas fireplace Mercer County professionals are here to help.
Benefits of Gas Fireplaces | Gas Fireplace Mercer County
Gas fireplaces are a great choice for any type of living situation. Even if you have a traditional fireplace, you can set up a gas system of heating. All they need is gas or propane fed into them. You don’t have to buy lumber and build fires. These fireplaces are easier to control than open flame, giving you more regulation over the warmth of your home. You simply turn it up or down with a thermostat, which gives a much easier and accurate reading of temperature. A gas fireplace provides a lot of heat, and does it more affordably than a traditional woodfire stove.
Types of ventilation | Gas Fireplace Mercer County
There are two main types of gas fireplace vents for optimum safety. A direct vent is when the gas from the gas fireplace releases out of the house directly. This chimney method is also known as a “natural vent”, since the vent is already attached to the house. But if you do not have a chimney, the flume can be attached through any opening to the outside. This is one of the most common choices for ventilation. For these fireplace vents, the pollutant level is low, maintaining a safe oxygen level for the room.
Chimney repair | Gas Fireplace Mercer County
If you have a chimney to vent your gas fireplace, you then have the concern of chimney maintenance. Chimneys channel out dangerous toxins, so if they are not functioning, your household is at risk. Risks like blockages; if your chimney is in use and uncovered, there is a risk of outside things getting in. From animals to debris, it is important to check out your chimney to ensure the passage is clear. The chimney itself can start to chip or break over time. Broken chimneys cannot be mended without professional aid.
Typical wood-burning fireplaces emit smoke and pollutants into the environment. However, gas fireplaces, especially in cases with adequate ventilation, emit far less toxins. Instead air quality is assured to keep residents safe and in comfort. Gas fireplaces are simply more environmentally friendly than burning loads of wood. The emissions are far lower than wood-stoves. Clean gas logs also allow you to maintain the classic fireplace aesthetic, without burning up wood. No flame needs to be stoked and maintained, no lumber needs to be carted about. Tis the season to think about your home and keeping it in shape. If you have an active chimney, make sure that it is in peak condition and always ready. Roast some chestnuts in the oven, and enjoy your gas fireplace. To learn more about installing and maintaining gas fireplaces Mercer County professionals have all the information you need.
Related NJ Chimney Sweep Posts:
Mercer County Chimney Sweep
Princeton Chimney Sweep
Chimney Caps Mercer County
by admin | Sep 28, 2022 | NJ Chimney Repair, NJ Chimney Sweep
Is it time for you to schedule for chimney service in Mercer County, NJ? To keep your chimney working smoothly and safely, it’s recommended to get routine inspections with the proper repairs or maintenance services if necessary. That said, you want to be sure that you’re choosing an experienced and reliable Mercer County chimney service for the job. Because a faulty chimney can create extremely dangerous situations, you don’t want to hire somebody who will cut corners or doesn’t have the proper knowledge when it comes to chimneys. If you’re looking for quality chimney service from a reputable company, check out these helpful tips below.
Chimney Service in Mercer County | How to Choose a Great Chimney Sweep in NJ
Get Recommendations from Friends or Family:
When it comes to finding a reputable chimney service in Mercer County, NJ, one of the best places to start is by asking your friends or family for recommendations. If somebody you know and trust has had a good experience with a chimney service in Mercer County, then chances are you will too. Don’t hesitate to ask around for chimney service recommendations from people you know.
Check Online Reviews:
Another great way to find out about chimney sweep is by reading online reviews. These days, it’s easy to find customer reviews for just about any type of business online. Simply do a quick search for “Mercer County chimney service” plus the name of the company you’re considering and see what others have to say. If you see a lot of positive reviews, that’s a good sign that the company is reliable and does quality work.
Ask for Insurance Documentation:
When you’re considering hiring a chimney service company, be sure to ask for their insurance documentation. This is important because it will protect you in case anything goes wrong during the chimney service process. A reputable chimney service company will have no problem providing you with their insurance information.
Get an Estimate in Writing:
Before hiring a chimney service in Mercer County, NJ, always get an estimate in writing. This way, you’ll know exactly how much the job will cost upfront and there won’t be any surprises later on. A good chimney service company should be able to give you an estimate without any problem.
By following these tips, you can be sure that you’re choosing the best chimney service company for the job. Don’t take chances when it comes to your chimney—hire a reputable and experienced company that you can trust.
Looking for an Experienced & Qualified Chimney Service in the Mercer County, New Jersey Area?
Searching for a great Mercer County chimney service? Contact St. John Chimney Sweeps to inspect your chimney and have it cleaned. St. John Chimney Sweeps has been in business for over 15 years. We are a full service chimney and fireplace sweeping and installation company in Princeton, New Jersey. We offer 100% customer satisfaction and a no mess guarantee. Our products also come with a lifetime warranty. The employees at St. John Chimney Sweeps go through an extensive training and have earned certificates, which permit them to do the job right. We are honest and efficient in all our jobs. We are also a licensed and insured company. St John Chimney Sweeps is the most trusted New Jersey chimney sweep company. We have the experience and the skills to far exceed your expectations. Give us a call today. We encourage you to look through our website and see all we have to offer. Our blog can guide you in the right direction with helpful tips and advice on chimney related services.
Related NJ Chimney Sweep Posts:
Mercer County Chimney Sweep
Princeton Chimney Sweep
Princeton Area Chimney Sweep
Ewing Area Chimney Sweep
Trenton Area Chimney Sweep
Chimney Sweep Mercer County
2. Rust and corrosion:
Helps Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning:
Do you know if you are in need of Mercer County chimney repair? You can’t always tell by looking at it that your chimney isn’t safe and in working condition. However, there are some visible signs that indicate Mercer County chimney repair may be needed. Since chimney safety is part of safety from obvious fire hazards, every homeowner with a chimney should become familiar with telltale signs of damage.
Check Online Reviews: