Why Chimney Caps Are Important

Why Chimney Caps Are Important

Mercer County Chimney Caps are very important to keeping your fireplace or wood burning stove functioning cleanly and properly. The crowning jewel for every chimney is the chimney cap and it acts as a first line of defense for keeping your chimney healthy and fully functional. Chimney caps keep the elements from intruding into your chimney. A chimney cap will keep snow, rain, dirt and even small animals will be kept outside where they belong.  A chimney cap provides many practical benefits. Today, we will be looking at the many reasons to have a chimney cap

Mercer County Chimney Caps | What are the Benefits?

Stop water from entering your chimney – When water gets inside your chimney it can seep into the bricks and even find its way into your attic. This can cause damage to both the bricks in your chimney as well as the wooden structure of your attic. The result could be expensive damages that can be easily avoided by purchasing a chimney cap.

Stop dirty air from blowing into your home – Chimney caps stop drafts from coming into your house through the chimney. Not only is a draft cold in the winter time, but the air will be filled with smoke and soot which can cause negative respiratory side effects.  Keep your home warm and smoke free by replacing your chimney cap if it falls off.

Chimney caps keep squirrels and birds out – Small animals love to make their way into chimneys without caps. Chimneys provide birds, squirrels and other small animals with a warm cozy shelter. If any of these animals settle dow and build a nest, your chimney can become blocked and a fire could start.

Chimney caps help prevent house fires – Chimney caps keep sparks and embers from setting your roof on fire.  If heated materials make their way onto your roof and start a fire, there is no way for you to know until it is too late! Make sure you always check to see if your chimney cap is attached and isn’t damaged.  If you are unsure, contact your local Mercer County Chimney service company today!

Looking for the Best Mercer County Chimney Caps?

There are various types of Mercer County chimney caps to choose from. Whenever considering installing a new chimney cap, you should always contact an experienced professional. St. John Chimney Sweeps has been providing satisfied home owners with Mercer County Chimney Caps services for well over a decade and a half. We pride ourselves in our 100% customer satisfaction no-mess guarantee. Many of our quality products have a lifetime warranty. St John is a fully licensed and insured company is also a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG). For more information or for a free estimate, contact us today at: (609) 737-0133 or visit our website.

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Why Chimney Caps Are Important

Mercer County Chimney Liners

Mercer County Chimney Liners is something that many homeowners don’t quite understand, and many times it may not seem too important!  Contrary to popular understanding, a chimney liner is a vital part of every chimney.  It guides smoke and other combustable materials away from the actual chimney and out into the air above. All chimneys must have an adequate working liner to maintain safety and functionality. If you are unsure whether or not you need a new chimney liner, contact your local Mercer County chimney sweep service company today!

Mercer County Chimney Liners

Today, we will be taking a closer look at the three main types of chimney liners: Clay, cast-in-place and metal liners. All three types of liner provide your chimney with adequate protection, however, depending on your individual circumstance, a certain type may be more beneficial to you.

Clay Chimney Liners – This type of liner is usually installed during the construction of a home. This is an older method of chimney lining and has been used in homes since the early 20th century.  Clay tile is a tried and true type of chimney liner that is able to withstand extremely high temperatures without compromise. The clay lining is capable of resisting the harmful materials that travel up through the flue into the air above. Best of all, the clay material is very affordable and the liner can last up to 5 decades without needing to be replaced.

There are also some downsides to clay chimney liners.  For starters, The clay is arranged in rectangular tiles and therefore does not create a smooth interior. Air can get stuck in the spaces and can effect the natural draft inside your chimney. If the tiles get too old, they can begin to crack which puts you at risk for a house fire. Contact your local Mercer County Chimney company to come and assess the condition of your chimney and decide whether or not you need to replace it.

Other Types of Mercer County Chimney Liners

Cast-in- liners –  These liners are usually used to strengthen an existing liner inside your chimney. If your chimney. It works to reinforce the existing chimney and provides a sturdy and effective liner. Similar to the clay flue becomes misshapen, a cast in liner can create a new shape inside the flue. This type of liner is not affected by the heat or corrosive chemical that are released from combustion making them very durable. Similarly to clay liners, cast in liners can last up to 5 decades.

The installation process of cast-in liners involves a mortar mix being pumped into the chimney. This mixture is pumped around an inflated rubber balloon to create a very smooth surface inside the flue. This is an affordable and durable method and it is highly recommended.

Metal liners – Metal liners can be installed in virtually every chimney. These can be made into any size or shape. Most often, these liners are made of stainless steel. There are two major types of metal chimney liners: rigid and flexible. The shape of your chimney will dictate which type of chimney liner your chimney company will use. Rigid liners are ideal for chimneys that go straight up without any twists or bends while flexible liners can be used in chimneys with curves or bends. Insulation can also be implemented with metal liners to help to keep higher heat in the chimney and remove moisture that can cause rust and damage. It also prevents heat from moving into the pipes within the home structure. These stainless steel liners are best used for existing chimneys that either have no liner or require liner replacement.

Although there are a number of different types of chimney liners, the most importing thing is that every chimney has one. If you are unsure about the status of your chimney liner, contact your Mercer County Chimney liner company today.

Looking for Mercer County Chimney Liners?

If you are looking for a reliable company to install or repair Mercer County chimney liners, call St. John Chimney Sweeps today!  St John Chimney Sweeps has been providing the Mercer County are with reliable chimney liner services for well over 15 years. Customer satisfaction is always guaranteed and most of our products come with a lifetime warranty We are a hard-working and efficient company and we always provide detailed explanations for everything we do to your chimney. Our licensed and insured company is also a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild. Call now for a free estimate at: (609) 737-0133 or visit our website.

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East Windsor Chimney Repairs

East Windsor Chimney Repairs

Do you know if you are in need of East Windsor chimney repairs? Sometimes, spotting chimney damage isn’t as straightforward as it may seem. There are some signs of damage that you need to know how to check for. Leaving your chimney in bad shape can lead to some big problems down the road. Below are some of the most common signs that you need East Windsor Chimney repairs.

East Windsor Chimney Repairs

East Windsor Chimney Repairs | Rust:

There shouldn’t be rust on your firebox or damper; but if there is, it’s a clear sign that there is excess moisture in your chimney.  You may not notice rust on the damper readily; but if it doesn’t seal well or operate properly, it could be because it’s rusting.

If there’s enough moisture in your chimney to cause visible signs of rusting, there could also possibly be serious damage, such as cracked flue tiles.  It’s important to get the help of a professional chimney sweep, who can use a special camera to inspect the flue lining and ensure there isn’t a breach in the chimney system which could ultimately cause a house fire.

Chimney Repairs in East Windsor | White Staining:

White discoloration on a chimney is called efflorescence. While it’s fairly simple to remove the staining, cleaning it doesn’t solve the moisture problem which causes the white residue.  Efflorescence is a clear indication of excess moisture in the masonry.  If it isn’t dealt with, premature deterioration of the chimney will likely occur, in addition to other potential problems related to moisture.

East Windsor Chimney Services | Deteriorating Mortar Joints:

Damaged mortar joints between chimney masonry should be repaired quickly.  When the mortar deteriorates, the masonry is exposed to more moisture, which accelerates the deterioration of the entire chimney.  In freezing weather, the added moisture can freeze inside cracks in the masonry.  When moisture thaws and freezes in bricks, rocks, and cement, larger cracks can develop.  The entire chimney could collapse, if the damaged mortar isn’t repaired.

Chimney Sweep in East Windsor | Shaling:

If you start to see thin slices of chimney tile collecting in the fireplace, it’s a good indication that the flue is damaged.  The flue lining is essential to the safe operation of a fireplace and chimney.  Because of this fact, an annual chimney inspection is important. Professional East Windsor chimney sweeps can closely analyze your flue lining and spot problems that would otherwise go undetected.  For example, if the tiles are cracked but not crumbling, you probably won’t see visible signs of a breach in the chimney system.

Mercer County Chimney Repairs | Spalling:

Spalling is an issue which occurs to the outside of the chimney and can be detected because you see bits of masonry around the bottom of the structure.  When moisture enters masonry, it can force the surface of the brick, concrete, or stone to peel off, pop out, or flake off.  It’s essential to replace damaged masonry to prevent continued crumbling and eventual destruction of the chimney.

Chimney Sweep in Mercer County | Chimney Crown Damage:

As with damaged mortar joints, it will be necessary to go on your roof to spot damage to the chimney crown.  The crown is an important part of the chimney structure, providing a first line of defense against harsh weather conditions.  If the crown is cracked, moisture could seep in and create larger cracks.  A damaged crown means that water can seep between the chimney and the flue lining, which could cause spalling and shaling. The best defense against this type of damage is to weatherproof the chimney crown.

Chimney Repairs in Central NJ | Damaged Wallpaper:

Wallpaper on the walls near your chimney can provide another visible sign of chimney damage.  If the wallpaper is damaged, it is usually a result of moisture in the chimney.  Repairs to the chimney or flue should be made as needed, before continuing the use of the fireplace.

Looking for the Best Company for East Windsor Chimney Repairs?

If you’re looking for the best company for East Windsor chimney repairs, contact St John Chimney Sweeps today! 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!

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Hamilton Chimney Repair

Hamilton Chimney Repair

Do you know whether or not you’re in need of Hamilton chimney repair services? It’s never a good idea to leave a damaged chimney unaddressed. Doing so can lead to further, more costly damage that will spread to different structures in your home. That said, not everyone knows the signs of chimney damage. Below are some of the most common signs that it’s time to get chimney repair services in Hamilton, NJ.

Hamilton Chimney Repair | Signs You Need Repairs Done

Hamilton Chimney Repair

1) A Crack in the Chimney

A chimney is only as strong as its components. If cracks appear in the chimney, it’s likely that other damage has occurred. This can be both dangerous and costly to repair, so get chimney inspection services right away.

2) Damaged or Missing Flashing:

When water makes contact with brick chimneys, this causes minor damage over time called weathering. The flashing around the chimney prevents this from occurring by allowing water to flow along the roof instead of contacting the chimney itself. Even if there are no visible signs of damage yet, missing or damaged flashing should be addressed immediately before further damages occur.  Another common sign of chimney problems is water leakage into one’s chimney.

3) Evidence of Animals Living in the Chimney:

Animals are notorious for getting into chimneys, which is why chimneys should always have chimney caps installed to prevent this from happening. If you notice fur or droppings built up inside your chimney, it’s likely that animal(s) made their way inside, causing damage. If you see evidence of animals living in your chimney, don’t hesitate to get chimney inspection services right away!  If you don’t know how they got there, call pest control services immediately before further damage occurs.

4) Smoke is Difficult to See:

In a chimney that’s in good condition, smoke rises up through the chimney in a smooth and steady manner. If you notice that the smoke only goes a small distance up your chimney before dissipating, this means something isn’t right. It can mean there was recent damage or it could be a sign of further problems. Either way, get chimney inspection services right away to get rid of chimney issues at their source so you don’t have to deal with the damages they cause!

5) Uneven Chimney Crowns:

Chimneys should always be intact and stable. If crowns are missing or unevenly spaced, chimneys need to be repaired. A professional will be able to tell you whether or not you need chimney repair in Hamilton, NJ.

7) Damaged Stucco:

Stucco is cement-based material typically used for exterior insulation. It’s important that damaged stucco around chimneys is repaired to prevent water seepage into chimneys.  If there are any openings in the chimney, similar problems may arise if this isn’t addressed immediately. If you’d like Hamilton chimney repair services performed, call a chimney specialist today!

Looking for the Best Company for Chimney Repair Near Hamilton, NJ?

Looking for the best company for Hamilton chimney repair? 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!

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Chimney Caps in Mercer County

Chimney Caps in Mercer County

Have you ever heard of chimney caps in Mercer County? Your chimney provides warmth and adds an ambiance that is unmatched in your home. However, your chimney also presents an open-door opportunity for animals to enter your home. Closing off the chimney with a chimney caps closes the door to unwanted animal visitors and prevents costly problems caused by animal access into your home. Below are some top reasons people invest in chimney caps for their homes.

Chimney Caps in Mercer County | Unwanted Animals in the Home

Sometimes an animal that enters the chimney will eventually make its way into your home. Our office manager recalls a squirrel that terrorized the entire downstairs of her home after the poor fellow fell through the damper and into the firebox and could not re-exit. The anxiety that results from encountering a squirrel in your kitchen or seeing a bat or bird flying around your home leads to panic, as you try desperately to dodge the animal or coerce the bat out of your home! While animals are in your home, they can leave droppings and cause damage to your carpet and hardwood flooring.

Chimney Caps in Mercer County

Chimney Cap in Mercer County | Odors from Droppings

As small mammals such as bats, squirrels, raccoons and other animals go in and out of the chimney, they leave droppings. You may notice a foul odor on humid or warm days, as higher moisture levels and heat intensify the smell. If you light a fire in your fireplace, the fire can aggravate the unpleasant burning odor as the fire burns and activates odors from the droppings.

Mercer County Chimney Caps | Odors from Dead Creatures

When an animal enters your chimney and cannot escape back out the top, it may die. Typically, only raccoons and birds can escape from a chimney once they gain access into it. Other animals can’t get back up the chimney, and they’ll eventually die, leaving a very unpleasant odor for you to endure. The decaying body of an animal may also lead to other unpleasant problems, such as maggots feasting on the dead body.

Chimney Caps in Central NJ | Rain

Believe it or not, almost all rain in North America is acid rain. This light acidity degrades the cement in the mortar joints in between the flue tiles. Once the cement is degraded it is basically just sand. The next rain storm comes and washes out the sand. Now you have a code violation and potentially unsafe masonry chimney.

Looking to Add Chimney Caps to Your Home?

There are various types of Mercer County chimney caps to choose from. Whenever considering installing a new chimney cap, you should always contact an experienced professional. St. John Chimney Sweeps has been providing satisfied home owners with Mercer County Chimney Caps services for well over a decade and a half. We pride ourselves in our 100% customer satisfaction no-mess guarantee. Many of our quality products have a lifetime warranty. St John is a fully licensed and insured company is also a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG). For more information or for a free estimate, contact us today at: (609) 737-0133 or visit our website.

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Princeton Chimney Repair Services

Princeton Chimney Repair Services

Are you in need of Princeton Chimney Repair services? Our fireplaces and chimneys are supposed to burn safely and efficiently year after year. However, many homeowners find it difficult to know when their chimneys are damaged or need repairs. Below are some of the top signs that you should contact a professional for Princeton chimney repair.

Princeton Chimney Repair ServicesPrinceton Chimney Repair Services | Cracks in the Masonry:

Small areas of chips, cracks, or missing masonry on the chimney are caused by long-term water damage that needs repairs. Oftentimes, the tuckpointing process can be used to remove old and damaged mortar by water. The chimney sweep carefully removes the old mortar before mixing and replacing new masonry. The result is a seamless repair that is indistinguishable from the original masonry.

Large cracks in the chimney can also be caused by the settling of your house or chimney. If the chimney is not built on proper pads or footing, the chimney can crack as it shifts and settles over time. A chimney inspection is often needed to determine if damage from settling is a structural issue or merely a cosmetic issue.

Chimney Repair Services in Princeton | Water in Your Fireplace:

The exterior masonry of chimneys is designed to withstand the exposure to wind, rain, sun, and more. The interior fireplace components, however, are much more delicate. Because of this, even small amounts of water in the fireplace can cause serious damage.

When water gets inside your fireplace, this results in a leaky chimney. When a leak occurs, it is important to have a chimney inspection and repairs from a certified Princeton chimney sweep. This ensures damage caused by water is properly repaired – and keep water from coming back.

Central NJ Chimney Repair Services | Chimney Has a Foul Odor:

There are a number of causes for chimney odor. The type of smell your chimney has can be a clue to what the underlying cause is. Smoky odors, particularly on hot or humid days, are often the result of creosote buildup in the flue. A chimney sweeping can remove creosote, eliminating the smell and reducing the risk of an accidental chimney fire. Dank or damp odors are usually the result of a leaky chimney. The combination of water and cold, dark flues can result in mold or mildew growth when there is water present in the chimney.

Mercer County Chimney Repair Services | Fireplace Smokes When Used:

A fireplace that blows smoke back into the room when in use is the result of drafting issues. Drafting problems are caused by chimney height, the addition of new landscaping or nearby buildings, the installation of a new insert, or switching fuel sources. Having the flue relined or adding or subtracting height to the chimney are two ways to help improve fireplace drafting issues.

Chimney Repair in Princeton | Stained Chimney Exterior:

Exterior masonry stains affects more than just your curb appeal. The color of the stain can reveal the root of the problem. Dark brown or black stains are often the result of drafting issues or an excess of creosote in the flue. Red or orange stains are usually caused by metal chimney components that are rusted, which is common on the sides of manufactured or factory-built chimneys.

Looking for Princeton Chimney Repair Services?

Looking for the best company for Princeton chimney repair? 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!

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