by sunshine | Oct 24, 2024 | NJ Chimney Repair
Your chimney is designed to safely vent smoke, gases, and heat from your fireplace, wood stove, or furnace out of your home. Over time, exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear can cause the chimney to deteriorate. Cracks, blockages, or damaged flue linings can create hazardous conditions. It is important to know why Chimney repairs are needed.
Chimney Repair Services I Why Are Chimney Repair Services Important?
Without regular inspections and timely repairs, these problems can lead to:
- House fires: Creosote, a highly flammable substance, can build up in the chimney, and even a small spark can ignite it, leading to a potentially devastating fire.
- Carbon monoxide poisoning: If your chimney is blocked or damaged, carbon monoxide can leak into your home, posing a serious health risk.
- Structural damage: Moisture infiltration and other factors can weaken the chimney’s structure, causing parts of it to collapse or become unstable.
By investing in regular chimney inspections and repairs, you can avoid these issues, ensuring your home remains safe and functional.
Common Chimney Problems That Require Repair
Chimneys can face a wide variety of issues, depending on the materials they are made of, the climate, and how frequently they are used. Here are some of the most common problems that might require professional chimney repair services:
- Cracked Chimney Crown
The chimney crown is the topmost part of your chimney that protects it from the elements. Over time, exposure to rain, snow, and extreme temperatures can cause the crown to crack. When the crown is damaged, water can seep into the chimney, leading to further deterioration. Repairing a cracked chimney crown is essential to prevent more extensive damage.
- Damaged Flue Liner
The flue liner is a protective layer inside the chimney that prevents heat from damaging the surrounding structure and keeps toxic gases contained. A damaged or corroded flue liner can result in inefficient venting of smoke and dangerous gases like carbon monoxide. A chimney repair service will inspect the liner and recommend repair or replacement if needed.
- Spalling Bricks
Over time, the bricks or masonry of a chimney can start to crack, chip, or flake away in a process called spalling. This usually happens when moisture gets into the brick and expands during freezing weather. If left unchecked, spalling can weaken the entire structure of your chimney. Replacing damaged bricks and applying a waterproof sealant can help prevent further damage.
- Chimney Leaks
Water can enter your chimney through cracks in the masonry, gaps around the flashing, or a damaged chimney cap. Leaks can cause serious damage to the interior of your home, including mold growth and structural decay. Repairing leaks often involves sealing cracks, replacing the chimney cap, or re-flashing the area where the chimney meets the roof.
- Creosote Buildup
If you use your fireplace frequently, creosote can build up inside the chimney. This tar-like substance is highly flammable and can cause a dangerous chimney fire if not cleaned regularly. While chimney sweeping is a part of regular maintenance, severe creosote buildup may require more extensive repairs, especially if it has damaged the flue liner.
Types of Chimney Repairs
Chimney repair services offer a wide range of solutions depending on the type and extent of damage. Some common types of repairs include:
- Chimney Relining
If your chimney’s flue liner is cracked or damaged, it may need to be relined. Chimney relining involves installing a new liner made of materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, or clay tiles. This process improves the efficiency and safety of your chimney.
- Brick and Mortar Repair (Tuckpointing)
If the mortar between your chimney’s bricks is crumbling or missing, tuckpointing is required to restore the structure. Tuckpointing involves removing the damaged mortar and replacing it with new mortar to ensure the stability of the chimney.
- Crown Repair or Replacement
A cracked or damaged chimney crown can be repaired with a waterproof sealant, but in some cases, it may need to be completely replaced to protect the chimney from moisture damage.
- Flashing Repair
The flashing around your chimney helps prevent water from leaking into your home where the chimney meets the roof. Over time, flashing can become loose or damaged, leading to leaks. Repairing or replacing flashing is essential to prevent water infiltration.
- Chimney Cap Installation
A chimney cap is a simple yet effective way to prevent water, debris, and animals from entering your chimney. If your chimney cap is missing or damaged, installing a new one can save you from costly repairs down the line.
How to Choose the Right Chimney Repair Service
Finding the right chimney repair service is crucial to ensure your chimney is properly maintained and repaired. Here are some tips to help you choose a reliable service provider:
- Look for Experience and Certifications
Chimney repair is a specialized field, so it’s important to hire a company with extensive experience and relevant certifications. Look for technicians who are certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) or a similar organization, as this ensures they have the training and expertise needed to perform the job safely.
- Read Reviews and Check References
Before hiring a chimney repair service, check online reviews and ask for references from past customers. This will give you an idea of the company’s reputation and the quality of their work.
- Get a Detailed Estimate
Ask for a written estimate that outlines the cost of labor, materials, and any additional fees. A reputable chimney repair service will provide a transparent and detailed estimate so you know exactly what to expect.
- Ask About Warranties
A reliable chimney repair company should offer warranties on their work. Make sure to ask about any guarantees or warranties, as this will give you peace of mind knowing that the repairs are covered in case of future issues.
Chimney repair services are essential for maintaining the safety and efficiency of your home. Regular inspections and timely repairs can prevent serious problems like fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, and structural damage. Whether it’s fixing a cracked crown, repairing spalling bricks, or installing a new chimney cap, hiring a professional chimney repair service is the best way to ensure your chimney remains in good condition for years to come.
Looking for a Professional Repair Service for your Chimney?
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
by sunshine | Dec 17, 2023 | NJ Chimney Repair, NJ Chimney Sweep
Santa Claus is coming to town – and soon! You better make sure your chimney is safe for the big man’s arrival. How may you ask? We’ve made a list for you – it’s time for you to check it twice!
Santa safety
Do you have a chimney cap? While it might make things more difficult for him to squeeze down the chimney, chimney caps also keep animals and other debris from getting into the chimney. If you don’t have a chimney cap, you should get one up soon! Don’t worry, Santa’s magic powers will still let him slip in!
Is your flashing adequate? Flashing is placed around the chimney to prevent leaks. It keeps water from getting between the chimney and roof. You definitely want to make sure your flashing is checked before we get hit with any snow.
Is the mortar on your chimney intact? The mortar is what holds bricks together in brick chimneys. Mortar can deteriorate over time, so be sure that you have it checked every so often.
Take a look inside the chimney. Is it clean? Are there any nests? Often, buildup accumulates inside the chimney. Also check to see if there are loose, missing or crumbling tiles.
Keep the area near your chimney clear for Santa’s sleigh! If you have any trees near the chimney, make sure its branches are at least 15 feet away.
Inspection
Consider having a chimney inspection to make certain your chimney is safe. A reputable, licensed chimney sweep company can take a look inside your chimney with a camera to see if there are any signs that repairs are needed so Santa can make a safe arrival!
Our recommendation is to address smaller items now to make the chimney safe for Santa and prevent any major issues but delay any extensive work on the interior until summer when prices can be lower.
Keep in mind that many chimney companies recommend work that does not need to be done, so if you have any questions, please feel free to ask us for our opinion. We’re always happy to help you and any of your friends and family with anything chimney related!
Does Santa Claus need a clean Chimney?
As we head into peak fireplace season, bear these tips in mind:
Keep the area in front of the fireplace clear of paper and debris. It can be tempting during the holidays to place decorations and gifts close to the fireplace but keep them at a safe distance.
Don’t burn your Christmas tree (pine creates more creosote) or throw wrapping paper, boxes, or trash into the fireplace. This may be fun, but it can be dangerous!
When cleaning out the fireplace after the big day, place the embers in a metal container and allow them to cool outside for 24 hours before disposal.
Of course, every home should maintain smoke and carbon monoxide detectors inside and outside of bedrooms. Replace the batteries each season and test them regularly. Replace your detectors every ten years.
Contact us
St John Chimney Sweeps Address 1613 Reed Rd D1, Pennington, NJ 08534 Proudly Serving Mercer County, Somerset County, Hunterdon County, & Surrounding Areas Website http://www.stjohnchimneysweeps.com/ Email: stjohnchimneysweeps@verizon.net Phone Number: (609) 737-0133
Get your chimney ready for Santa Claus
by admin | Jun 21, 2023 | NJ Chimney Repair
Finding the right Mercer County chimney mason is crucial. A chimney is an important part of the home even though it may not seem that way for most homeowners. The fireplace is also important since it is where you light the fire. Apart from being a source of warmth, the fireplace is also a decorative structure in the house. After frequent use, the chimney and the fireplace might need some repairs. The repairs might be minor and simple or big and complicated. If the repairs involve masonry repairs, it is important to find a professional chimney mason for the job. Masonry is a craft that requires patience and a high level of craftsmanship. Fortunately, you do not have to handle masonry projects since there are companies that provide expert services.\
Finding a Great Mercer County Chimney Mason
A good Mercer County chimney mason provides high-quality masonry services and they do not stop there. They will clean after they are done with the project such that you will not have to deal with the construction debris. Apart from the masonry work, a chimney and fireplace, the right company also offers a host of other services such as chimney sweeps, fireplace cleaning and inspection. It is a good idea to have the chimney and the fireplace inspected once in a while to get the small issues before they develop into big problems that might be more expensive to handle.
When you are looking for chimney mason in Mercer County, you should make sure that you are choosing a professional company that will give you professional results. A good company will first inspect the chimney and give you a quote which will include the amount you can expect to pay and the time it will take to complete the job. They should be experienced and actually have proof that they have been working to provide chimney and fireplace masonry repair to other clients. It is also a good idea to read genuine reviews to see what other people have to say about their services.
Looking for an Excellent Mercer County Chimney Mason?
If you’re looking for the best Mercer County chimney mason, contact St John Chimney Sweeps right away. At St John Chimney Sweeps we offer 100% customer satisfaction. We have been in business for over 15 years, and St John Chimney Sweeps is the only name you need to know for a full-service chimney sweeping and installation in the New Jersey area. Our employees have had extensive training and have earned many certificates that help them do their job with full expertise. We are efficient and provide a full explanation of the work we need to complete. Our licensed and insured company is also a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild. We have been supplying expert sweeps, repairs and installation services to homeowners all across the state of New Jersey. Call us at (609)737-0133 to find out more about our free estimates. Let us take care of all your chimney needs!
Related NJ Chimney Sweep Posts:
Mercer County Chimney Sweep
Princeton Chimney Sweep
Ewing Chimney Masonry Repair
5 Reasons to Clean Your Chimney in Spring
by admin | May 8, 2023 | NJ Chimney Repair, NJ Fireplace Services
Do you know if you need Mercer County chimney damper repair services? A chimney damper is the metal plate located at the top of your flue that seals off the fireplace when it’s not in use. It works by blocking the flow of air through the chimney, which helps to keep heated or cooled air from escaping out of your home. The ability to open and close a damper also allows you to control the amount of smoke and heat that escapes, helping to improve the efficiency of your fireplace. Over time, however, these dampers can wear down or become damaged and will need to be replaced or repaired. If you actively use your fireplace, you may want to look into Mercer County chimney damper repair services to ensure that your fireplace stays safe and efficient.
Mercer County Chimney Damper Repair | Why it’s Important to Maintain Your Chimney Damper
Having a properly functioning damper is essential to the safety of your home. If it’s not working correctly, smoke and noxious gases can escape into your house instead of being drawn up through the chimney. Additionally, these gases can also build up in the flue, potentially leading to dangerous carbon monoxide poisoning. To prevent this from happening, you should have your damper inspected regularly for any signs of wear or damage that could be preventing it from closing securely. It’s especially important if you haven’t used your fireplace in over a year or if you’ve recently noticed strange smells emanating from it.
Keeping track of when and how often you use your fireplace can help determine when you need Mercer County chimney damper repair services. Regularly cleaning the flue and inspecting your chimney also allows you to spot any warning signs of damage early on, allowing for an easier and less expensive repair process. Additionally, having a well-maintained damper helps make sure that your fireplace is working efficiently and that heated or cooled air isn’t escaping out of your home without you knowing it.
Chimney Damper Repair in Mercer County | Signs of Chimney Damper Damage
There are several common signs that you might need Mercer County chimney damper repairs or even a full replacement. If you notice any of the following, it’s a good idea to call a professional for an inspection:
Creaking and Squeaking:
If you hear creaks or squeaks coming from the chimney, it could be a sign that your damper is damaged. This may indicate that the metal has become worn down, making it difficult to properly open and close the damper. In some cases, it can also cause air leaks around the flue.
Rust or Corrosion:
Over time, moisture in your chimney can lead to rust and corrosion on the flap of your damper. If this happens, the metal will become weak and may not be able to fully open or close when necessary, leading to inefficient heating and cooling within your home.
Drafts:
You should be able tell when your chimney damper is not working properly by feeling a draft of cold air coming down the flue. This can be an indication that the metal has become too worn down and needs to be replaced, or at least repaired.
Smoke in the Home:
If you notice smoke coming into your home when you’re not actively using the fireplace, it could be a sign that your damper is stuck in the open position and is unable to close completely. A professional should inspect your chimney as soon as possible to determine if it needs to be repaired or replaced.
If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it may be time for Mercer County chimney damper repair services. An experienced technician can inspect your flue and replace or repair the damper as needed. This will help to improve the safety and efficiency of your fireplace, while also preventing air leaks in your home.
Looking for an Experienced Chimney Repair Professional in the Mercer County, New Jersey Area?
Searching for the best Mercer County repair service? Contact St. John Chimney Sweeps to inspect your chimney and have it cleaned or repaired. 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. Service towns in the Mercer County, NJ area include Princeton, Hamilton, West Windsor, East Windsor, Lawrence, Pennington, Yardville, and many more throughout Central NJ.
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
by admin | Feb 22, 2023 | NJ Chimney Repair
Having a chimney on your home can add a lot to it’s value. It looks good from the outside and adds a lot of character to the inside. This can be severely affected if your chimney has some damage on it. If your chimney is damaged, you should seek out Mercer County chimney masonry repair immediately. The dangers of it extend past just the aesthetic if the damage is bad enough.
Mercer County Chimney Masonry Repair – Dangers of a Damaged Chimney
Aesthetics:
Whenever something so widely visible is damaged, you run the risk of aesthetic damage. Luckily, because a chimney sits on top of the roof, it is unlikely that this will be too visible. Even something major like a brick or two missing shouldn’t be too visible to someone who’s not specifically looking for it. However, the bigger dangers of masonry damage to your chimney are more for your safety.
Health Risk:
Essentially, gas and heat can escape through the small cracks and areas of damage in your chimney. This can further deteriorate your chimney from the inside out. Depending on where the cracks in your chimney are, they can allow toxic gases to escape into your home. This is an obvious risk to your family and one that should be fixed ASAP with Mercer County chimney masonry repair. If the cracks are bad enough, the flue will be unable to contain the fire as well. It’s not a good look (nor is it safe) to have fire spilling out of the side of your chimney.
Less Efficiency:
A damaged chimney will undoubtedly make it less efficient as well. In order for a chimney to effectively do what it needs to, the gas and heat needs to rise all the way through it and out the top. If there are cracks that allow this stuff to escape elsewhere, it is incapable of doing what it needs to do. Areas where there may be cracks let gas and heat out but also let outside air in. This will reduce the efficiency of your fireplace and make it harder to heat your home.
Are You in Need of Mercer County Chimney Masonry Repair?
There are several risks that make it imperative for you to get Mercer County chimney masonry repair work done immediately if it is needed. If you’re looking for a reputable name in the business, look no further than St. John! At St John, we take great pride in providing our valued customers with our 100% satisfaction no-mess guarantee. Many of our quality products have a lifetime warranty. We are honest family owned company that always gives thorough explanations before we do any work. Our licensed and insured company is also a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG). Call now for a free estimate at: (609) 737-0133 or visit our website.
Related NJ Chimney Sweep Posts:
Mercer County Chimney Sweep
Princeton Chimney Sweep
Chimney Sweeps in Mercer County NJ
Ewing Chimney Masonry Repair
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
Mercer County Fireplace Repair
by admin | Jan 27, 2023 | NJ Chimney Repair
Do you know if you need Mercer County fireplace repair services? The fireplace is an often overlooked part of a home, but neglecting for too long it can be quite hazardous. A damaged fireplace can lead to disastrous chimney fires, collapses and other hazardous situations that could be life-threatening. To ensure the safety of yourself and those around you, it’s important to keep your fireplace in top condition. In order for this to happen, one must recognize when they need fireplace repair before things get too out of hand; thus saving time, money and lots of frustration! Below is a list containing common warning signs you should look out for that indicate you need fireplace repair in Mercer County, NJ – if caught fast enough these issues won’t turn into nightmares!
Mercer County Fireplace Repair | Signs that Your Fireplace Needs Repairs
You Smell Gas:
If you believe there is a gas leak in your home, as indicated by the smell of gas emanating from your gas fireplace, act swiftly and call a professional. Gas leaks are incredibly perilous; it’s not worth taking any chances!
You Have Smoke in Your House:
If your home is filled with smoke when you light a fire, chances are it’s time for Mercer County fireplace repairs. There could be several potential issues at play here, from needing an intensive cleaning to an incorrect flue size which needs correcting.
Shaling:
When the chimney liner becomes compromised, shaling occurs as tiny chunks of tile accumulate at the base of the hearth.
Cracks in the Face of Your Fireplace:
While cracks in your fireplace may give it an authentic and cozy feel, they can be detrimental to the inner workings of your system.
You Notice White Stains
A telltale sign of a leak near your fireplace is if you see a powdery residue on the bricks – this usually means that moisture has penetrated and pushed out salt from within them. Don’t ignore such an obvious sign!
Warped Wallpaper:
Furthermore, if you notice your wallpaper close to the fireplace becoming distorted or damaged due to moisture, it could be an indication of a damp chimney.
Damaged Mortar Joints:
Furthermore, broken motor joints can occur when constantly exposed to moisture. Any cracks that are present allow water in and cause them to expand–when the ice melts and freezes again during cold times, this issue only grows worse. Ignoring these issues could lead your chimney to collapse!
Rust:
If your chimney has rust, it is an unmistakable signal that moisture may be present. If you spot rust in or around the firebox, damper or other areas of the fireplace, action must be taken swiftly! Ignoring this for too long can have a negative impact on your fireplace’s health and safety. Don’t let rust become another problem.
Looking for a Chimney Professional for Fireplace Repair in Mercer County, New Jersey?
Searching for the best Mercer County chimney and fireplace professional? Contact St. John Chimney Sweeps today! 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
Mercer County Chimney Damper Repair
Chimneys can face a wide variety of issues, depending on the materials they are made of, the climate, and how frequently they are used. Here are some of the most common problems that might require professional chimney repair services:
A good Mercer County chimney mason provides high-quality masonry services and they do not stop there. They will clean after they are done with the project such that you will not have to deal with the construction debris. Apart from the masonry work, a chimney and fireplace, the right company also offers a host of other services such as chimney sweeps, fireplace cleaning and inspection. It is a good idea to have the chimney and the fireplace inspected once in a while to get the small issues before they develop into big problems that might be more expensive to handle.
There are several common signs that you might need Mercer County chimney damper repairs or even a full replacement. If you notice any of the following, it’s a good idea to call a professional for an inspection:
Health Risk:
Shaling: