by admin | Jun 15, 2023 | Mercer County Chimney Sweep, NJ Chimney Sweep
If you are lucky enough to have a fireplace in your home, now winter is here, you are probably enjoying it daily. There is nothing quite like coming home through wind and snow to the crackle and cheer of a roaring fire. A fireplace creates warmth, comfort, and adds a cozy glow to the room. If you are using your fireplace more, however, you are using your chimney more. If you do have a fireplace, and consequently, a chimney, make sure your chimney is clean and safe this winter season. A reputable chimney sweep and repair company inspects, cleans, and makes any necessary repairs to your chimney. A chimney sweep company inspects the chimney and the chimney caps. Why is cleaning of chimney caps important? Chimney caps keep out unwanted animals and debris, keeping your chimney clear. So for chimney and cap inspection, contact local West Windsor chimney sweeps today.
West Windsor Chimney Sweeps | Regular Inspections
A bright fire blazing in a fireplace can be an object of beauty and comfort. A fire in the chimney, on the other hand, is a scary prospect. Over time, creosote can build up in the chimney, becoming a potential fire hazard. An increase of soot can block the flue, making the outside release of carbon monoxide fumes difficult. Buildup of excessive soot and creosote can have a negative impact on chimney masonry, too. All these factors increase the possibility of a chimney fire. Regular chimney and chimney cap inspections performed by a professional chimney sweep can prevent chimney fires.
West Windsor Chimney Sweeps | Chimney Caps to Keep Chimney Clear
One purpose of a chimney cap is to keep the chimney free from small animals and leaves and small sticks. When you have a mesh cover over the cap, it can keep small mammals and birds from nesting inside the chimney. Birds and squirrels, especially, are apt to building cozy nests where people would rather they didn’t. Nesting materials can block the flue, becoming a fire hazard, or a blocked smoke hazard. It’s even worse if an animal dies in the chimney. Even without animals helping, debris like dead leaves and pine cones can find their way into the chimney.
West Windsor Chimney Sweeps | Chimney Caps to Keep Moisture Out
Chimney caps are not only beneficial for keeping animals and debris out of your chimney. Precipitation from rain and snow can fall into the top of your chimney. While this does not sound too detrimental, it can cause moisture to seep into your home. Constant freezing and thawing of moisture can cause stress to masonry and chimney linings. Rainwater coming down the chimney can damage liners and dampers. Unchecked moisture in your home can cause mildew to grow, and masonry to weaken. This unwanted moisture can cause wet patches on interior walls and ceilings, but chimney caps can prevent this.
Chimney caps are not a huge investment or improvement project, and the benefits speak for themselves. They keep invading animals from nesting in your chimney. Buildup of nesting materials can block flues, and become a fire hazard. Their new habitation might also invite other small mammals to join the party. Other rodents can smell the food stored in your chimney, and come and take up residence in your home. Chimney caps keep rain and snow from seeping into your chimney, and into your home. Regular chimney inspections can keep your chimney clear year round. You want your family to be safe and warm, and regular chimney maintenance does both. Call West Windsor chimney sweeps to schedule a chimney and chimney cap inspection today.
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by admin | Apr 25, 2023 | NJ Chimney Sweep
Mercer County Chimney Sweeping Service. Are you wondering if your chimney is due for a sweep? Many people enjoy the feel and atmosphere of a wood burning fireplace. Before using your fireplace, you need to make sure that it is clean and safe to operate. It is recommended you have your chimney cleaned and professionally inspected at least once a year. There are many good reasons to clean and inspect your chimney.
Mercer County Chimney Sweeping Service | Fire
A nice fire in the fireplace can have some loud popping and crackling sounds with dense smoke, therefore, it is wise to have your chimney swept at least once a year. If a chimney is not cleaned and it is dirty, at any point it will cause a fire within the chimney. Flames from a chimney fire can quickly spread into the walls or onto the roof of your home and cause a devastation. The most common cause of chimney fire is a dirty chimney. Chimneys become clogged with a natural tar like substance from burning wood. Over time it builds up in the chimney. The more you use the fireplace the more buildup accumulates. Because the buildup does not allow air to flow, the heat can set the chimney on fire.
Mercer County Chimney Sweeping Service | Health
A wood burning fireplace can produce carbon monoxide. A chimney must be clean and clear of anything blocking the air flow to escape so that it doesn’t come back into the home. Breathing the fumes from gas or fuel fires can be dangerous. Carbon monoxide is produced when fuel is burned. It can cause headaches, dizziness and nausea. When a chimney is blocked and the flue is not working properly, it causes a buildup of this dangerous gas. It is extremely critical to have your chimney examined yearly and swept to make sure the flue works as it should and the chimney is clear and clean.
Mercer County Chimney Sweeping Service | Smoke Damage
When a chimney is not cleaned regularly, the soot that it produces will accumulate around the flue preventing it to work properly. If the flue does not draw smoke upwards it will cause the smoke to enter the room. If the soot comes into the home, it can leave a black layer on the furniture and carpeting. At times the smoke can cause a black stain around the chimney which is very difficult to remove. A professional chimney sweeper will successfully inspect the chimney and make sure all the working parts are working as they should be. The main goal is to keep your home safe.
Searching for the best Mercer County Chimney Sweeping 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.
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by sunshine | Mar 4, 2023 | Mercer County Chimney Sweep, NJ Chimney Sweep
There’s no better time to get your chimney cleaned and inspected by a professional chimney sweep than right now. Spring is here, which means more rain, more pests, and probably some much needed deep cleaning. Spring clean your chimney to remove the winter soot and be prepared for the summer’s heat.
Spring Clean your Chimney
Spring is typically the best time to check your masonry and fix any holes or replace any bricks that are loose. Heavy rains can eat away at the bricks and mortar, creating holes for water leaks and making your chimney system weak. There could also be damage to your chimney or flue liner as a result of moisture seeping into the exterior masonry, causing the bricks, stones, or flue tiles to crack. Flashing disruption can lead to serious roof damage and eventual water leaks into the attic and ceilings of your home. Cracks can cause venting problems and become a safety hazard. An annual inspection can detect any dangerous cracks or leaks and they can be addressed or repaired immediately.
Moisture
Moisture damages should be repaired quickly, in order to keep the costs of repairs low and slow down any deterioration. In addition, by scheduling your chimney cleaning and inspection during the spring season, you beat the rush, which is typical in fall and winter, with temperatures cooling down.
Odor
Your masonry takes a beating from all the moisture as the seasons change, leaving you with potential issues. Anytime you use your fireplace, some amount of creosote is deposited in your chimney flue. Creosote is highly flammable and becomes more difficult and expensive to clean, the longer it builds up inside the lining of the chimney. Because it is highly combustible, if it builds up in sufficient quantities and the internal flue temperature is high enough, it may start a chimney fire.
This means that when it gets hot outside, particularly if moisture has made its way into your chimney, the deposits in the liner can emit a sour odor. The sour odor intensifies as summer heats up. Having chimney sweeps come to clean and inspect your chimney will ensure your house will smell fresh and clean.
Spring Clean your Chimney
Routine maintenance services should include a complete chimney inspection as well as the removal of any hazardous or combustible creosote and eliminating any accumulation of soot, dirt and debris. Keep in mind that the National Fire Protection Association recommends that that you have your chimney cleaned and inspected at least once a year or even more frequently if you have a fireplace or wood burning appliance that you use frequently.
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
Chimney Sweeps in Mercer County NJ
by admin | Feb 14, 2023 | NJ Chimney Sweep
If you’re having chimney issues, you’re going to want to look for chimney sweeps in Mercer County sooner rather than later. Leaving a damaged or faulty chimney unaddressed can lead to more severe, expensive, and dangerous problems. That said, the signs of needing a Mercer County chimney sweep aren’t always that obvious. If you’re wondering whether or not it’s time to contact a professional for chimney services in NJ, below are some of the most common signs to look out for.
Chimney Sweeps in Mercer County | Signs You Need Your Chimney Serviced
Chimney fires. If your chimney is sparking, smoking, or producing any kind of unusual flame or smoke, it’s a sign that something may be wrong with the structure and could benefit from chimney cleaning and repairs in Mercer County.
Damaged chimney components. Cracks, leaks, and other structural damage to your chimney can lead to all sorts of problems down the line, including increased risk of chimney fires and reduced energy efficiency. These are signs that you should have professional chimney sweeps in Mercer County take a look at your chimney to assess the extent of any damage.
Smoking inside your home. While some types of smoking indoors are common (for example, cigarette smokers), if you notice chimney smoke coming into your home or billowing out from under the door, it’s a sign that you need to have your chimney checked for leaks or blockages.
Soot buildup. If you notice a significant amount of soot around your fireplace or on the surface of your chimney, it means that there’s a good chance there’s a blockage somewhere in the structure. This is especially true if the soot is accompanied by an unpleasant smell.
If you’re noticing any of these signs, don’t hesitate to call a professional chimney sweep in Mercer County for an inspection and assessment. Addressing problems early on can save you time, money, and hassle down the road., money, and hassle down the line.
Are you Looking for the Best Chimney Sweeps in the Mercer County, New Jersey Area?
Looking for the best Mercer County chimney sweeps? 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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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.
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by sunshine | Nov 6, 2022 | Mercer County Chimney Sweep, NJ Chimney Inspection, NJ Chimney Repair, NJ Chimney Sweep
The National Fire Prevention Association 211 codes state the “Chimneys must be inspected and cleaned annually as necessary by a certified chimney sweep”. Most homeowners assume that their furnace company includes chimney cleaning as part of their maintenance process, but that is not true.
Problem
Chimney neglect will cause significant damage and endangers your family from carbon monoxide poisoning. Oil and gas furnaces and hot water heaters rely on the chimney for proper venting of exhaust. Although gas and oil appliances do not create creosote that wood-burning appliances do, they still produce soot. Soot is a highly corrosive substance that can damage chimneys and increase carbon monoxide levels in your home.
Furnace Flues can become blocked which allows a blowback of soot into your home and poisonous carbon monoxide to seep into your living space. If the furnace is in the basement, the levels can build up to dangerous high levels undetected. Scheduling an annual chimney sweep inspection and placing a carbon monoxide detector in the basement will save lives.
Monitoring
During the winter months, the furnace can not be cleaned without turning off the heat. During the winter, long running cycles produce soot and harmful substances that cling to the inside of the chimney. The accumulation of these substances restricts the escape of nitrogen, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and water vapor.
The furnace produces acidic condensate that will literally eat away at the flue lining in the chimney. If a clay liner begins to deteriorate, the broken bits can fall into the furnace damaging the operating mechanism. Chimney blockages will send the carbon monoxide straight into the basement, then the home living area.
The fumes are invisible, odorless, and tasteless. Carbon Monoxide can only be monitored by a detector designed for that purpose. A carbon monoxide detector is built into some brands of smoke detectors, and the battery should be changed twice a year when the clocks fall back and spring forward.
Cleaning
Fireplace flue cleaning and chimney sweeping refer to the same process. During the service, the technician generally uses a stiff-bristled brush or other chimney cleaning system to brush the inside of the flue to remove buildup from its walls.
Chimneys are havens for creatures and cause dangerous obstructions. Even if your chimney has a hood, creatures can access the funnel and flue. Smoky brown cockroaches are good flyers and can work their way down into the home where they like to live. They like flat roof areas and chimneys – this is how they enter structures. A chimney screen’s holes allow safe smoke ventilation, but nothing else can squeeze through it like fleas or cockroaches. One problem with screens is that pests can bite through them over time. To account for this issue, you could install both a chimney cap and a chimney screen with an annual chimney sweep inspection to ensure both layers of protection are intact.
If you have a chimney in New Jersey, chances are you’ll have Stink Bugs. The heat from buildings will escape from chimneys and vents and they will find their way in as they are attracted to warm areas in cold nights. Beetles and ants can crawl through the cracks of older fireplaces, especially if they’re built with brick. Wasps will nest in your chimney. Exterminating insects in the chimney by spraying will deter infestation. A more permanent solution is installing fine mesh screens, top sealing dampers, and by sealing cracks in your chimney’s exterior with mortar.
Raccoons, squirrels, birds, bats, and other larger pests can use the chimney itself as nesting spots. The chimney cap needs to be steel or copper lid with a mesh wire opening on its underside and installed at the mouth of your chimney. A professional Chimney sweep will remove the hood, replace it with a mesh wire cap, and remove the obstructions from the funnel and the flue.
Bees should not be exterminated; they should be preserved. Unlike wasps, bees are purely vegetarian in both the adult and larval stages. Bees gather nectar from flowers as a source of carbohydrates, as do many wasps. They fulfill their protein needs by collecting pollen. Most species of bees are valuable pollinators, and honeybees are an essential partner in the production of food crops for people.
More than 80% of U.S. food crops are pollinated by honeybees. In New Jersey, blueberries, cranberries, pumpkins, squash, strawberries, soybeans, cucumbers, peaches, and apples are among the many crops that benefit from honeybee pollination. Although wild insect pollinators such as wasps and other bee species help in native plant reproduction, only honeybees live in managed colonies of sufficient numbers for effective pollination of commercial crops. Only honeybees can be transported to large areas of blooming crops for pollination services. The past two decades have seen dramatic declines in the number of honeybees, due to the introduction of parasitic mites, diseases, and habitat loss. Visit NJBeekeepers.org to find out about bee-friendly plants you can cultivate. If a beehive sets up home in the top of your chimney you need a professional chimney sweep and a bee wrangler to remove the entire hive. The New Jersey Bee Association lists bee wranglers who can help.
Venting
A crucial component to the safe operation of your furnace is the proper configurations and size of the entire venting system. Homeowners often forget that when they purchase a new HVAC or furnace system, they need chimney sweep professionals to assess their new system. Manufacturers requirements specifically indicate the proper flue size for the safe operation of their system. If the flue size is incorrect excessive moisture and combustion gases will build up. Moisture is a huge enemy to your ventilation system.
If the system is being converted from oil to gas, building codes require a chimney sweep assessment, cleaning, and inspection prior to installing and operating the new system.
Timing
Spring, summer, autumn are great times to have your chimney sweep service. An annual inspection and cleaning by a CSIA- certified company will ensure the ventilation system is adequate and chimney is safe. Their assessment will also check gaskets and joints are intact.
In winter, the heat will have to be stopped for the chimney sweep to complete his inspection and service. Snow does not stop chimney sweeps. Before any sweeping is done, a visual inspection is performed to determine if the flue needs to be swept. Roof access is not needed to make this determination. Additionally, sweepings are generally performed from the base, making outside weather conditions irrelevant when it comes to running our brushes.
References
https://njbeekeepers.org/swarmremoval/swarmremoval.html
