by sunshine | Mar 13, 2025 | Mercer County Chimney Sweep, Uncategorized
When it comes to maintaining your home, the chimney is often overlooked. Yet, it plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and longevity of your fireplace and heating system. One of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect your chimney is by installing a chimney cap. If you’re a homeowner in Mercer County, New Jersey, it is an essential addition to your home. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of chimney caps, their benefits, and why St. John Chimney Sweeps is the trusted choice for chimney services in Mercer County.
What Is a Chimney Cap?
A chimney cap is a protective covering installed at the top of your chimney. Typically made from stainless steel, copper, or galvanized metal, it features a mesh screen and a solid top. While it may seem like a small component, it serves several critical functions that can save you from costly repairs and potential hazards.
Why Is a Chimney Cap Essential for Your Mercer County Home?
1. Keeps Out Rain and Moisture
Mercer County experiences its fair share of rain and snow throughout the year. Without a chimney cap, water can easily enter your chimney, leading to a host of problems. Moisture can damage the chimney liner, cause rust in metal components, and even seep into your home, leading to water stains and mold growth. A chimney cap acts as a barrier, preventing rain and snow from entering your chimney and protecting its interior from water damage.
2. Prevents Animal Intrusions
Birds, squirrels, raccoons, and other animals often seek shelter in chimneys, especially during colder months. These unwelcome guests can build nests, block the flue, and even pose fire hazards. A chimney cap with a mesh screen keeps animals out while still allowing smoke and gases to escape safely.
3. Blocks Debris and Leaves
Falling leaves, twigs, and other debris can accumulate in your chimney, obstructing airflow and increasing the risk of chimney fires. A chimney cap prevents debris from entering, ensuring that your chimney functions efficiently and safely.
4. Reduces Downdrafts
Windy weather can cause downdrafts, forcing smoke and harmful gases like carbon monoxide back into your home. A chimney cap helps deflect wind, reducing the likelihood of downdrafts and improving the overall performance of your fireplace or heating system.
5. Prevents Sparks and Embers from Escaping
If you use a wood-burning fireplace, sparks and embers can rise through the chimney and land on your roof or nearby vegetation, potentially causing a fire. A chimney cap contains these sparks, reducing the risk of a fire hazard.
6. Extends the Life of Your Chimney
By protecting your chimney from water, debris, and animals, a chimney cap helps extend its lifespan. This simple addition can save you from costly repairs and ensure that your chimney remains in good condition for years to come.
Signs You Need a Chimney Cap
If your chimney doesn’t already have a cap, it’s time to consider installing one. Here are some signs that indicate the need for a chimney cap:
- Water Leaks: If you notice water stains or dampness near your fireplace, it could be due to rainwater entering your chimney.
- Animal Noises: Scratching or chirping sounds coming from your chimney are a clear sign that animals have made themselves at home.
- Debris in the Fireplace: Leaves, twigs, or other debris in your fireplace indicate that your chimney is unprotected.
- Downdrafts: Smoke blowing back into your home is a sign that your chimney may need a cap to improve airflow.
Why Choose St. John Chimney Sweeps for Your Chimney Cap Installation?
When it comes to chimney services in Mercer County, St. John Chimney Sweeps is the name you can trust. Here’s why they are the best choice for your chimney cap installation and other chimney needs:
1. Expertise and Experience
With years of experience in the industry, St. John Chimney Sweeps has the knowledge and skills to handle all your chimney needs. Their team of certified professionals understands the unique challenges posed by Mercer County’s climate and can recommend the best solutions for your home.
2. High-Quality Chimney Caps
St. John Chimney Sweeps uses only the highest-quality chimney caps made from durable materials like stainless steel and copper. These caps are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and provide long-lasting protection for your chimney.
3. Customized Solutions
Every home is different, and St. John Chimney Sweeps takes the time to assess your chimney and recommend the best chimney cap for your specific needs. Whether you have a traditional masonry chimney or a prefabricated one, they have the right solution for you.
4. Comprehensive Chimney Services
In addition to chimney cap installation, St. John Chimney Sweeps offers a full range of chimney services, including:
- Chimney Inspections: Thorough inspections to identify any issues and ensure your chimney is in good condition.
- Chimney Cleaning: Professional cleaning to remove soot, creosote, and debris, reducing the risk of chimney fires.
- Chimney Repairs: Expert repairs to address cracks, leaks, and other damage.
- Chimney Relining: Installation of new chimney liners to improve safety and efficiency.
5. Customer-Centric Approach
At St. John Chimney Sweeps, customer satisfaction is their top priority. They take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and provide transparent pricing. Their friendly and professional team is dedicated to making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
6. Competitive Pricing
St. John Chimney Sweeps offers competitive pricing without compromising on quality. They provide detailed estimates and work within your budget to deliver exceptional results.
The Chimney Cap Installation Process
Here’s what you can expect when you choose St. John Chimney Sweeps for your chimney cap installation:
- Initial Consultation: A consultation to discuss your needs and assess your chimney.
- Chimney Inspection: A thorough inspection to determine the best type of chimney cap for your home.
- Material Selection: Assistance in choosing the right material and design for your chimney cap.
- Professional Installation: Expert installation to ensure a secure and proper fit.
- Final Inspection: A final check to ensure everything is in place and functioning correctly.
Protect Your Mercer County Home with a Chimney Cap
A chimney cap is a small investment that offers significant benefits for your home. From preventing water damage to keeping out animals and debris, it’s an essential addition to any chimney. If you’re in Mercer County, trust St. John Chimney Sweeps to provide high-quality chimney caps and professional installation services.
Don’t wait until problems arise. Contact St. John Chimney Sweeps today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward protecting your chimney and your home.
Contact St. John Chimney Sweeps
Address: 123 Chimney Lane, Mercer County, NJ 08540
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by sunshine | Feb 19, 2025 | Mercer County Chimney Sweep
If you have a fireplace in your home, regular chimney cleaning is essential for both safety and efficiency. In Mercer County, where winter temperatures can be harsh, ensuring that your chimney is clean and in good working order before the cold season is crucial. But when is the best time to schedule a chimney cleaning? Many homeowners wait until the first chilly night to call for service, only to find long wait times and potential issues that could have been prevented earlier.
To avoid last-minute problems and ensure your fireplace is ready for use, let’s explore the ideal times for chimney cleaning, why regular maintenance is necessary, and how St. John Chimney Sweeps can help keep your chimney in top shape.
Why Chimney Cleaning is Important
Your chimney serves as a ventilation system that removes smoke, toxins, and combustion byproducts from your home. Over time, soot, creosote, and debris build up inside the flue. If left unchecked, this accumulation can lead to:
- Chimney Fires – Creosote, a sticky, flammable byproduct of burning wood, can ignite under high heat, causing a dangerous chimney fire.
- Poor Ventilation & Carbon Monoxide Risks – A blocked or dirty chimney can cause smoke and harmful gases like carbon monoxide to back up into your home.
- Structural Damage – Moisture trapped inside a dirty chimney can lead to cracks in the liner, brick deterioration, and costly repairs.
- Unpleasant Odors – A dirty chimney can cause strong odors, especially during humid months.
A professional chimney cleaning removes dangerous creosote, clears any blockages, and ensures your chimney is operating safely and efficiently.
When is the Best Time to Schedule a Chimney Cleaning?
1. Late Summer to Early Fall (Best Time for Pre-Winter Prep)
The ideal time to schedule a chimney cleaning in Mercer County is before the start of the heating season—between late summer and early fall. This ensures your fireplace is ready for use as soon as temperatures drop. 
Many homeowners wait until late fall or winter to schedule a cleaning, only to find that chimney service companies are booked out for weeks due to high demand. Scheduling your chimney cleaning early guarantees:
- A flexible appointment time that fits your schedule.
- A thorough inspection of your chimney to address any repairs before winter.
- Peace of mind knowing your fireplace is ready for cold weather use.
2. Spring (Post-Winter Cleaning to Prevent Odors & Damage)
Spring is also a great time for a chimney cleaning, especially if your fireplace has been used heavily during the winter months. After months of burning wood, soot and creosote deposits are at their highest levels. A post-winter cleaning will:
- Prevent chimney odors from developing during the humid summer months.
- Remove moisture buildup, reducing the risk of chimney deterioration.
- Give you plenty of time to schedule repairs before the next heating season.
By cleaning your chimney in the spring, you avoid the rush of fall appointments and extend the lifespan of your chimney system.
3. Off-Season Months (Late Spring to Early Summer for Convenience & Discounts)
Chimney sweep companies often have fewer bookings during the warmer months, making late spring and early summer an excellent time to schedule maintenance. You may even find discounts or special offers on chimney services during the off-season.
Scheduling during this time also ensures that any issues found during the cleaning—such as damaged liners, cracked masonry, or worn-out chimney caps—can be addressed well before winter arrives.
How Often Should You Get Your Chimney Cleaned?
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommend having your chimney inspected and cleaned at least once per year. However, some factors may require more frequent cleanings:
- Frequent Fireplace Use: If you burn wood regularly, schedule a cleaning every 50 to 75 fires to prevent excessive creosote buildup.
- Softwood vs. Hardwood: Burning softwoods like pine produces more creosote than hardwoods like oak or maple, requiring more frequent cleanings.
- Previous Chimney Fires or Issues: If your chimney has experienced a fire in the past or has structural damage, more frequent maintenance is necessary.
- Animal Nests or Debris: Birds, squirrels, and raccoons often nest inside chimneys, especially in the spring. If you suspect an obstruction, call for an inspection immediately.
Signs That Your Chimney Needs Cleaning
While an annual cleaning is recommended, your chimney may need service sooner if you notice:
Smoke backing up into your home when using the fireplace.
A strong, musty, or smoky odor coming from the chimney.
Soot falling into the fireplace or visible creosote buildup.
Difficulty starting or maintaining a fire due to poor airflow.
A white, chalky substance (efflorescence) forming on the exterior bricks, indicating excess moisture.
Ignoring these signs can lead to dangerous chimney fires, carbon monoxide leaks, and expensive repairs.
What to Expect During a Professional Chimney Cleaning
At St. John Chimney Sweeps, we follow a comprehensive process to ensure your chimney is safe and ready for use: 
- Initial Inspection: Our experts check for creosote buildup, cracks, blockages, and any structural issues.
- Sweeping & Cleaning: We use industry-grade tools to remove soot, creosote, and any debris inside the flue.
- Flue & Damper Check: We inspect the damper for proper functionality and ensure the flue is clear for proper ventilation.
- Exterior Inspection: We check the chimney cap, crown, and masonry for any signs of wear or damage.
- Final Report: We provide a detailed summary of our findings and recommend any necessary repairs or maintenance.
Our team takes extra precautions to ensure a dust-free and mess-free experience in your home.
Schedule Your Chimney Cleaning with St. John Chimney Sweeps
Whether you need a pre-winter cleaning, a post-season maintenance check, or an emergency chimney sweep, St. John Chimney Sweeps is here to help. We have been serving Mercer County and surrounding areas for over 15 years, providing expert chimney cleaning, inspections, and repairs.
📍 Company Name: St. John Chimney Sweeps
📍 Address: 1613 Reed Rd D1, Pennington, NJ 08534
📞 Phone: (609) 737-0133
✉ Email: kyle@stjohnchimney.com
🌐 Website: https://stjohnchimneysweeps.com/
🔥 Don’t wait until it’s too late! Schedule your chimney cleaning today and enjoy a safe, warm, and efficient fireplace all season long. Call us now to book your appointment! 🔥
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by admin | Sep 13, 2024 | Mercer County Chimney Sweep
As the cool winds of fall sweep across Mercer County, many homeowners begin preparing their homes for the colder months ahead. One of the most important but often overlooked tasks is ensuring your chimney is in optimal condition before winter sets in. Chimney services, such as inspections, cleaning, and repairs, are crucial to maintain the safety, efficiency, and longevity of your fireplace or heating system. Scheduling chimney services in Mercer County, NJ during the fall is particularly advantageous for several reasons.
Chimney Services in Mercer County | Why You Should Consider them this Fall
1. Preparing for Increased Usage
As temperatures drop, fireplaces, wood stoves, and heating systems that rely on chimneys become more frequently used. During the winter months, chimneys work overtime to keep your home warm. If your chimney hasn’t been serviced recently, it may be filled with soot, creosote, or even debris like leaves or animal nests, all of which can pose serious hazards.
One of the primary reasons for fall chimney services in Mercer County is to prepare your chimney for the increased usage it will see in the coming months. When the fireplace is used more frequently, especially after being dormant for the summer, there’s a higher risk of creosote buildup. Creosote is a highly flammable byproduct of burning wood, and if too much accumulates, it can ignite, causing a chimney fire. A fall cleaning ensures that your chimney is free of these dangerous substances before you start using it heavily.
2. Ensuring Safety for Your Family
Safety is paramount when dealing with any kind of heating system, especially one that involves combustion. A chimney that hasn’t been properly maintained can become a fire hazard. As mentioned earlier, creosote buildup is one of the leading causes of chimney fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), thousands of house fires each year are attributed to chimney fires, most of which could have been prevented with routine cleaning and maintenance.
By scheduling Mercer County chimney services in the fall, you are reducing the risk of dangerous blockages, chimney fires, and carbon monoxide poisoning. A blocked chimney can cause harmful gases, including carbon monoxide, to flow back into your home instead of safely venting outside. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be lethal at high levels. A professional chimney sweep will not only clean out any blockages but also check for cracks, structural issues, or malfunctions that could lead to improper ventilation.
3. Avoiding the Winter Rush
Another significant benefit of scheduling Mercer County chimney services in the fall is avoiding the winter rush. Many homeowners wait until the first cold snap before thinking about their chimneys, which means chimney service companies often experience a surge in demand during the early winter months. By being proactive and scheduling your service in the fall, you’ll avoid the rush and have a much easier time securing an appointment that works with your schedule.
This proactive approach also ensures that any repairs needed can be made before the height of the heating season. If an issue is found in the middle of winter, you may have to deal with delays or, worse, go without your fireplace while waiting for repairs. Fall services give you a window of time to address any issues before the cold weather makes your fireplace essential.
4. Maximizing Energy Efficiency
A well-maintained chimney ensures that your heating system is running at peak efficiency. If your chimney is dirty or clogged, it can impede airflow, which reduces the efficiency of your fireplace or stove. This can lead to higher heating bills, as your system has to work harder to produce the same amount of heat.
In Mercer County, where winters can be particularly cold, efficient heating is essential for keeping energy costs manageable. A fall chimney cleaning and inspection will help your system work more effectively, reducing waste and ensuring that your home stays warm throughout the winter without breaking the bank. Additionally, a clean chimney means fewer emissions, which is not only better for your household but also for the environment.
5. Preventing Damage from Moisture
Chimneys are exposed to the elements year-round, and one of the most damaging factors for chimneys is moisture. Rain, snow, and ice can all seep into cracks in the chimney’s masonry, leading to water damage. This can cause structural issues such as cracks in the flue or chimney lining, deteriorating mortar, and even damage to the surrounding walls of your home.
Fall is the ideal time to check for any signs of moisture damage before the freeze-thaw cycles of winter make things worse. A professional Mercer County chimney service will inspect your chimney for cracks, leaks, and other vulnerabilities that could be exacerbated by winter weather. If repairs are needed, addressing them in the fall will prevent further damage and help extend the lifespan of your chimney.
6. Animal and Debris Removal
Throughout the spring and summer, chimneys can become home to birds, squirrels, and other small animals seeking shelter. Nests and debris from these animals can block the flue, making it dangerous to light a fire without first clearing the obstruction. In some cases, animals may even die inside the chimney, leading to unpleasant odors and potential health hazards.
Scheduling fall chimney services in Mercer County ensures that any animal nests or debris are removed before you begin using your fireplace again. Chimney professionals can also install chimney caps to prevent animals from entering in the future, offering you peace of mind throughout the winter.
7. Peace of Mind for the Holiday Season
For many homeowners, the fireplace is the heart of the home during the holidays, providing warmth and ambiance for family gatherings. By taking care of your chimney maintenance in the fall, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your fireplace is safe and ready to use when you need it most.
Nothing spoils the holiday spirit like a chimney emergency or, worse, a fire caused by neglect. Scheduling chimney services in the fall allows you to enjoy your fireplace without worrying about potential hazards or the stress of last-minute repairs.
In Mercer County, where winters can be harsh, ensuring that your chimney is in top condition is a vital part of preparing your home for the colder months. By scheduling chimney services in the fall, you’ll ensure that your system is safe, efficient, and ready for the increased usage it will see during the winter. From preventing fires and carbon monoxide poisoning to avoiding costly repairs and ensuring maximum energy efficiency, a fall chimney service is a smart investment in your home and your family’s safety.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule your chimney service this fall and enjoy a warm, safe, and cozy winter.
Looking for Reliable Mercer County Chimney Services?
Searching for the best Mercer County sweep? 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.
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by sunshine | Jul 25, 2024 | Mercer County Chimney Sweep
Ash – The white/grey powdery residue left when combustible materials such as wood and coal is burned.
Ash Dump – An opening located at the bottom of the fireplace, through which ashes can be dumped. Often, there is a door covering the opening than can be open and shut.
Ash Pit – A storage compartment for ashes, located underneath the ash dump. It is usually quite large and should have a access door for cleaning out the ashes periodically.
Baffle – An object or plate installed in an stove or fireplace to change the direction of flue gases often to help burn more effectively.
Blower – A fan with a motor that is often installed in a fireplace or stove to help distribute the heat being produced.
Carbon Monoxide – An odorless, colorless, tasteless poisonous gas that is a byproduct of incomplete combustion. Carbon monoxide can be fatal if not detected.
Chimney Chase – The area or structure around metal flue pipes. The chase is usually built with wood or steel studs with an exterior that can include brick/stone veneer or wood siding or stucco
Chimney – One or more passageways, vertical or nearly so for conveying flue gases from the appliance to the outside atmosphere.
Chimney (or Flue) Cap – A protective covering or housing for the top of a chimney. Often, chimney caps have a lid to protect from rain, snow and sleet and a screen mesh of some sort to keep animals out.
Chimney Cleaning (Sweeping) – The process of removing soot, creosote, and debris from a chimney. Soot and creosote are by-products of combustion and should be removed regularly from the chimney to help prevent a chimney fire. Chimney cleaning along with an inspection should be performed as part of an maintenance schedule to ensure your chimney operates as efficiently and safely as possible.
Chimney Connector – The pipe connecting a fuel-burning appliance to a chimney. Most commonly made from galvanized steel, stove black pipe, or a listed double-wall pipe system.
Chimney Liner – The inner portion of the chimney that contains the products of combustion. It can be made of clay tiles or of metal. The flue chimney liner is one of the most important part of the chimney system. It must be able to contain the products of the combustion process. This means that any holes, cracks or deteriorations must be repaired or replaced to ensure the performance and safety of the chimney system.
Creosote – Deposits of hydrocarbons that were in the smoke going up the chimney that have condensed into a solid form.
Cricket – (also referred to as a Saddle) A ridge that extends from the back of the chimney to the slope of the roof, with the purpose of shedding water away from the connection between the chimney and the roof.
Crown – A chimney crown (or cap) is the top surface of a chimney designed to shed water away from the flue liner and protect the masonry from water leakage. Often times, the crown should be made of concrete and should have a slope away from the center of the flue stacks.
Damper – A damper is a device for controlling the flow of air or smoke in a chimney or woodstove. In its most common form, plates are located in the fireplace or stove pipe with a control handle. For some stoves there is an additional air control damper located on the exterior of the stove.
Draft – The rising gas creates a pressure difference called draft, which draws combustion air into the appliance and expels the exhaust gas outside through the chimney.
Dryer Vent Cleaning – Lint that normally occurs in a clothes dryer can build up over time. Build-up of lint causes the dryer to take more time in drying the standard load of clothes and becomes a fire hazard. Dryer vent cleaning is a service in which the built up lint is removed from the dryer venting systems.
Firebox – Chamber of a fireplace or stove where the fire actually burns.
Firebrick – Brick composed of clay and silica and designed to withstand high temperatures such as those found in a firebox.
Fireplace Inserts – Wood, coal, pellets, or gas heating appliances that fit inside an existing fireplace.
Flashing – Sheet metal or other materials used in waterproofing roof valleys or the angle between a chimney and a roof.
Flue – The passage in a chimney for conveying flue gases to the outside atmosphere.
Flue Liner – Special liner required by codes and standards to cover the inner surface of the flue. The liner serves as a buffer between flue gases and chimney walls and is designed to contain the products of combustion.
Hearth – Floor area within the firebox of a fireplace or a fireplace stove.
Hearth Extension – The structure, usually consisting of stone, masonry or tile that protrudes in the living area of the house.
Masonry Chimney – A field-constructed chimney of bricks, stones or reinforced Portland cement concrete, lined with suitable chimney flue liners built in accordance with applicable building code requirements.
Masonry Fireplace – A hearth and firebox of solid masonry units such as bricks, stones, listed masonry units, or reinforced concrete, provided with a suitable chimney.
Multi-flue Chimney – A single chimney containing more than one flue.
Pellets – Small balls or blocks made of wood sawdust with no additives.
Parging – A thin coat of mortar applied to the inside of a masonry chimney or to the walls of a smoke chamber designed to reduce the resistance of flow in the chimney system.
Pyrolysis – Chemical alteration of wood, coal, or other combustible materials as a result of the application of heat.
Smoke Chamber – Chamber in a fireplace directly above the smoke shelf and extending to the base of the flue.
Smoke Shelf – The area at the bottom of the smoke chamber created as the back wall of the firebox arches forward. The shelf is located at the intersection of the smoke chamber and the firebox. A damper is normally located on the forward side of the smoke shelf.
Stainless Steel Liners – Stainless steel pipe, either rigid or flexible, made for relining flues of masonry chimneys when the original clay liner has cracked or broken. May also be used to create a lining in a masonry chimney that was made without a clay liner.
Soot – Soft, black, or brown, velvety carbon particle deposits inside appliances, chimneys or connectors, originating in oxygen-poor flames.
Stack Effect – The tendency for warmer air to rise within a structure, creating lower pressure in the lower areas of the building.
Thermal Expansion – Alteration to temperature inside a chimney or duct system that causes the metal surfaces to expand.
Thimble – Fixed or removable ring, tube, or lining usually located in the hole where the chimney connector passes through a wall and enters a chimney or vent.
Throat – Opening above a fireplace firebox through which flue gases pass from the firebox to the flue. The fireplace damper frame assembly is usually located at the throat of a fireplace.
Vent – A continuous passage from the flue collar to the draft hood. Flue gas temperatures at the outlet do not exceed 600 degrees.
Video Scan – Incorporating a closed circuit video camera and monitor, for inspecting the interior of flues and other inaccessible areas. This provides a very detailed part of the inspection process.
Woodstoves – Enclosed appliances, most commonly constructed of steel or cast-iron, used for burning wood for the purpose of heating an indoor space.
Contact us
If our CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep determines that your chimney needs swept, we will take the utmost care to keep your living space completely clean. Proudly Serving Mercer County, Somerset County, Hunterdon County, & Surrounding Areas.
St John Chimney Sweeps Address 1613 Reed Rd D1, Pennington, NJ 08534
Website http://www.stjohnchimneysweeps.com/
Email: stjohnchimneysweeps@verizon.net Phone Number: (609) 737-0133
Safety chimney sweep guidelines
by sunshine | Jun 6, 2024 | Mercer County Chimney Sweep
ANNUAL INSPECTION IS A MUST
Have your chimneys inspected annually and swept if needed. If the chimney (fireplace & furnace/water heater/flue) is clean and free of obstructions, there is less danger of a chimney fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.
KEEP IT CLEAN AND CLEAR
Make sure that the top of the chimney is free and clear of tree branches, ivy, or overhanging branches. Keep all furniture and combustible furnishings at least 36 inches away from the fireplace or wood stove. Exposure to heat can lower the ignition
temperature of combustible items over time, and they can catch fire.
CAP YOUR CHIMNEY
Have a chimney cap installed on all of the flues. New chimney caps are usually constructed of stainless steel and do not rust. They keep out rain, birds, raccoons, squirrels, leaves and other debris that could obstruct the flow of flue gases in your chimney.
BE CAREFUL WITH WHAT YOU BURN
Well-seasoned hardwood yields the most Btu’s (heat) for your fireplace or wood stove. Never burn colored paper such as magazines or wrapping paper. Don’t burn plastic; never burn painted, stained or treated wood – the fumes are poisonous. Don’t use your fireplace as an incinerator to burn pizza boxes, Christmas trees or stacks of paper or cardboard.
SMOKE AND CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS ARE A MUST
Some of the newer units will detect both smoke and carbon monoxide, but both types should be installed throughout the home. Optimum placement is on the ceiling because that is where the smoke and carbon monoxide will be. Plugging in units are convenient but near the floor is not ideal.
SCREENS & DOORS
Have a fireplace screen or set of glass doors with a screen in front of your fireplace during operation. Flying sparks from sappy wood can burn holes in your carpet or furniture. Remember, if you have glass doors, they must be open during the operation of your fireplace, do not close them if a fire is burning. The glass is not rated for those temperatures and the fire will be starved for oxygen and may smoke up the home. A fireplace screen will also help to keep children and pets safely away from the fire.
Contact us
If our CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep determines that your chimney needs swept, we will take the utmost care to keep your living space completely clean. Proudly Serving Mercer County, Somerset County, Hunterdon County, & Surrounding Areas.
St John Chimney Sweeps Address 1613 Reed Rd D1, Pennington, NJ 08534
Website http://www.stjohnchimneysweeps.com/
Email: stjohnchimneysweeps@verizon.net Phone Number: (609) 737-0133
Modern Chimney Sweeps
by sunshine | May 7, 2024 | Mercer County Chimney Sweep
Most people don’t think about their chimneys during the summer months because the last thing on your mind is the harsh cold of winter when the summer breeze is calling your name. There are however advantages to getting your chimney cleaned and inspected during the summer months:
Easier scheduling
While summer is the off season for chimney sweeping services, chimney sweeps do work year-round. Since most people don’t schedule during the summer months, if you have a busy life and need more flexibility, scheduling is much easier since it is slower and also not booked out as far in the winter. During the winter months scheduling can sometimes go as far as two months and time availability is limited due to the increase in call volume. Calling in the summer can save you time and headaches trying to coordinate around yourself and the busy season.
Masonry Jobs are easier
Because mortar and other masonry equipment requires it to be over a certain temperature, having your chimney inspected & cleaned during the summer can make it quicker and easier to have repairs done to your chimney if necessary. If your chimney does need work during the winter months and the temperatures are not warm enough, this can delay your repairs and having your chimney & fireplace put back in good working order.
Removing Excess creosote
Removing creosote can help prevent a smell coming from your fireplace during the summer months. When creosote heats up it produces a strong burnt wood smell that can cause not only your guests to not enjoy the smell but aggravate allergies and asthma in people sensitive to smoke.
Regardless of when you have your chimney inspected, doing so once per year is highly recommended to help prevent fires, as well as the issues mentioned above. If you would like to schedule your chimney inspection, feel free to contact us by phone or our website anytime.
Contact us
If our CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep determines that your chimney needs swept, we will take the utmost care to keep your living space completely clean. Proudly Serving Mercer County, Somerset County, Hunterdon County, & Surrounding Areas.
St John Chimney Sweeps Address 1613 Reed Rd D1, Pennington, NJ 08534
Website http://www.stjohnchimneysweeps.com/
Email: stjohnchimneysweeps@verizon.net Phone Number: (609) 737-0133
3. Avoiding the Winter Rush
