by admin | Sep 28, 2022 | NJ Chimney Sweep
The chimney is one of the most neglected parts of a home, but maintaining it is very important. Many homeowners neglect to schedule the necessary Mercer County chimney services to ensure everything is in safe, working order. This can literally be a fatal mistake, leading to fires or carbon dioxide poisoning, not to mention less major but still undesirable issues like leaks or unwanted pests. To prevent any of those scenarios from unfolding, you should both look for signs that would indicate the need for services or repairs and, if you haven’t had it inspected or swept in a while, have a trained professional inspect your chimney. There are some key things to check for that would mean it’s time for chimney services in Mercer County. Below we will explain what to look for.
Mercer County Chimney Services | Signs Your Chimney Needs to be Serviced
If there is any visible damage to the chimney, that is an obvious sign that you need Mercer County chimney services. Cracks, chips, or any other type of damage can create serious problems down the line. In some cases, these issues can be patched up and the chimney will be as good as new. However, in other cases, more extensive repairs or even replacement may be necessary. A professional will be able to assess the situation and let you know what your options are.
Another thing to look for is whether or not there are any animals living in your chimney. This happens more often than you might think! Animals like birds, squirrels, and raccoons find their way into chimneys all the time and can cause all sorts of problems. Not only can they damage the chimney itself, but they can also build nests that block the flue and lead to dangerous buildup of carbon monoxide. If you see any animals around your chimney or hear unusual noises coming from it, call a professional right away to have them safely removed and your chimney inspected.
If you notice any changes in the way your fireplace is working, that is another sign that you need chimney services in Mercer County. For example, if you used to be able to light a fire without any trouble but now it’s becoming more difficult, that could be a sign of a blockage in the chimney. Or if you notice smoke billowing back into the room instead of going up the chimney, that’s definitely a problem that needs to be addressed.
Finally, if it’s been a while since you’ve had your chimney swept or inspected, it’s probably time to go ahead and schedule those Mercer County chimney services. How often you need to have this done depends on how often you use your fireplace. If you only light a few fires each year, once per year should suffice. But if you’re using your fireplace on a regular basis, you may need to have it swept more frequently. A good rule of thumb is to have it inspected once per year and swept at least every other year.
If you notice any of the above signs, don’t hesitate to call a professional for chimney services. The sooner you get the problem addressed, the better. And of course, if you have any questions about your chimney or aren’t sure whether or not it needs to be serviced, a professional will be able to help you out.
Looking for an Experienced & Professional Chimney Sweep for Chimney Services in the Mercer County, New Jersey Area?
Searching for the best Mercer County Chimney Services? 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 admin | Aug 16, 2022 | NJ Chimney Repair, NJ Chimney Sweep
Wondering what the benefits are of getting Chimney Caps Mercer County? Chimney caps are important to help prevent unwanted issues with your chimney. If you want to use your fireplace without having problems that can affect your chimney or home, have a chimney cap properly installed. It is best to get
chimney caps in Mercer County.
Chimney Caps Mercer County | What is a Chimney Cap?
Homeowners with fireplaces in their home understand the importance of a good maintenance on their chimney with an annual chimney inspection. A chimney cap is on the top of your chimney. It is usually metal and covers the opening on top of your chimney. Chimney caps come in a variety of shapes and styles to match your chimney and the rest of the exterior of your home. There are numerous benefits to get a chimney cap installed on your chimney. Some of the benefits include keeping unwanted animals from coming in and building their home in the chimney. As well as moisture protection in your chimney.
Chimney Caps Mercer County | Water Out
It is extremely important to keep water and moisture out of your chimney. When water gets into your chimney, it can cause major damage and large repair bills. The brick in the chimney start to deteriorate quicker and other important parts become damaged. With a water buildup you have the issue of mold and mildew growing and becoming a greater issue. A chimney cap keeps all the rainwater out of the chimney keeping your chimney in good shape and protected.
Chimney Caps Mercer County | Drafts Stop
A chimney cap also protects your home by keeping any outside draft from coming into your home. Especially on a windy day, you can use your fireplace and be sure that all drafts will stay outside. Without a chimney cap, when using your fireplace your fire would be less efficient and also the smoke can come back into your home which can be dangerous. The installation of a chimney cap is to protect your chimney, your home and your family. When using your fireplace there are sparks that flow up through your chimney. When these sparks going up your chimney, they can touch your roof or nearby trees and cause a fire. With a chimney cap installed on your chimney, it catches any sparks shooting up your chimney and keep them from landing on your roof or anything nearby.
Chimney Caps Mercer County | Keep All Critters Out
A chimney cap keeps all animals and debris out of your chimney and therefore out of your home. Sometimes animals can get into your home through the chimney, but at times they can get stuck and eventually die in the chimney causing a blockage and/or smell of rotting. These things can damage your chimney. All the more reason to get that chimney cap installed. Leaves and branches can get into the chimney and sometimes are impossible to clean. If they are not cleaned out, you are unable to use your fireplace until it is cleaned, or it can cause backup and that can be dangerous. Getting a chimney cap installed is important, but having it installed correctly is even more important. When a chimney cap is installed incorrectly it will not keep moisture, drafts or animals from getting into your home. As a homeowner, we do not want things to damage and invade our home.
Searching for the best Chimney Caps Mercer County? Contact St. John Chimney Sweeps. We fulfill all chimney and fireplace sweeping and installation both to residential and commercial customers. All the employees on our team have in depth training and experience to perform our jobs with expertise. Contact us at (609) 737-0133 for an estimate.
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by admin | Jul 24, 2022 | NJ Chimney Sweep
Pennington Area Chimney Sweep. Thinking of having A Pennington chimney sweep? Your chimney appears in great condition on the outside, but inside there could be repairs that are needed that you can’t see. Getting a professional chimney sweep technician is the best thing to do. There are a few reasons why you should have your chimney inspected.
Pennington Area Chimney Sweep | Cracks
Cracks in the flue can be dangerous. The flue is the liner inside the chimney that carries heat and toxic fumes out of your home. Cracks or any deterioration that has developed from excessive heat or water damage needs to be repaired right away. When the chimney is not properly covered with a flue cap, this can leave it open for damage. A cracked flue puts your home in a dangerous place, exposed to heat and dangerous combustible materials entering your home. A professional chimney inspector will inspect the flue to see if there is damage and what needs to be repaired. When a chimney is made of bricks, repairs may be needed to keep it strong and steady. After years of damaging weather conditions and years of heating can develop cracks and damage. When a professional chimney inspector arrives, they will also check the damper. The damper should open and close easily without any issues. A professional can give the homeowner a detailed analysis of the recommended repairs needed to keep the chimney strong and maintain its structure.
Pennington Area Chimney Sweep | Creosote
Creosote that accumulates in the chimney from burning wood can lead to a chimney fire. This item must be removed to have the chimney safe and work properly. Animals also may use the chimney for their nest. This should be removed as soon as possible. An inspection and cleaning will make sure that the chimney is clear and safe for burning.
Pennington Area Chimney Sweep | Water Damage
If your chimney is not properly covered with a flue cap, water will enter through your chimney and can cause the deterioration of the chimney to happen faster. Which in the long run means you need to replace the flue sooner than normal. A chimney sweep will check the condition of your chimney and check all the masonry work around the chimney. They will check the flue cap and recommend all necessary repairs. These repairs may include a replacement of the flue cap or repair of cement and masonry around the chimney. If you don’t know when the last chimney sweep was done to your home, it is important to schedule a sweep as soon as possible. This will ensure that when you use the chimney it is in good condition and any repairs done will give the chimney optimal performance.
Searching for the best Pennington Area Chimney Sweep? St John Chimney Sweeps is the most trusted New Jersey chimney sweep company. St John Chimney Sweeps has been providing expert New Jersey chimney sweeps services all across the state. With our experienced team of skilled workers we far exceed your chimney expectations. We have been in business for more than 15 years. The value you receive when you hire St John Chimney Sweeps is absolutely unmatched and their services are very affordable for any homeowner’s budget. St John Chimney Sweeps is the only name you need to know for full service on chimneys and fireplace sweeping and installation throughout New Jersey. We offer 100% customer satisfaction and a no mess guarantee. We leave your home as clean as we first had it. Most products also come with a lifetime warranty. Give us a call today and inquire about our free estimates.
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by admin | Jul 17, 2022 | NJ Chimney Sweep
If you have a fireplace, it follows you have a chimney. If you use your fireplace a lot, but haven’t cleaned it recently, you probably need a Mercer County chimney sweeping service. With all there is to do to clean and maintain a home, chimney care often gets put to the bottom of the list. Or completely overlooked all together. Regular chimney maintenance is important for the safety of your family and your home. A fireplace is a wonderful, cozy addition to your home, but your chimney works hard every time you light a fire. Its job is to carry smoke, soot and ash up and away from your home. It can only do that if kept clear, however. Regular inspections and scheduled cleanings are necessary to keep a chimney working safely. For all chimney services, call a Trenton area chimney sweep today.
Trenton Area Chimney Sweep | Regular Inspections and Cleaning
Regularly scheduled inspections are an important part of chimney care. While you are scheduling an annual cleaning for your chimney, make sure to schedule a thorough inspection. A reputable chimney sweeping company will inspect every aspect of your chimney during a regular inspection. They will make sure there are no blockages or signs of wear and tear, and that all vents are clear. Keeping your chimney clear and in good condition keeps your home and family safe, and reduces the risk of chimney fires. It is a good idea to schedule maintenance and cleaning in the spring, after a long winter’s use.
Trenton Area Chimney Sweep | Chimney Repair
Should a problem arise during an annual inspection, a professional chimney care expert can also carry out chimney repair. From repairing masonry outside the chimney, to cracks inside the flue, your local chimney sweep does it all. Cracks in the chimney crown, or in the masonry around the chimney can lead to water getting into your home. These cracks can allow water to seep into the chimney itself, or attic spaces around it. If you see damp spots in the attic, or running down walls by the chimney, you could have a chimney leak. Chimney repairs also include the replacement of warped, rusted flashing, which could cause a leak.
Trenton Area Chimney Sweep | Chimney Caps
If your chimney does not already have a chimney cap, most chimney professionals recommend the addition of one. Chimney caps act as a guard over the top of the chimney. They stop excess water and melting snow from getting down the chimney and into the home. They also help keep the chimney clear of wind-blown debris, such as leaves and twigs. Chimney caps also deter birds from nesting in the chimney during the warmer months, and prevent small animals from entering. Without a chimney cap, it is easy for squirrels and rodents to enter your home through the chimney.
You already know how warm and comforting a roaring fire in the hearth is, how cozy and cheery it is. You know you have to clean the fireplace after a blazing fire, and probably take good care of your fireplace. But to take care of the chimney, you need the services of a professional. Chimneys really need a professional chimney sweep to keep it clean and free from dangerous creosote buildup. Excess buildup could cause a chimney fire if left there. Unrepaired cracks can allow water to leak down the chimney or into your home. Sweeps inspect chimneys for cracks inside and out, ensure the flashing is in good repair, and perform regular cleanings. For all these chimney services, and more, a Trenton area chimney sweep company is there to help.
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by admin | May 6, 2022 | NJ Chimney Sweep
There are 5 Reasons to Clean Your Chimney in Spring! Winter is coming to an end and it is time to think about scheduling your annual chimney cleaning appointment. Your fireplace and chimney need to be cleaned out and made safe. You may need a
Mercer County chimney sweep. There are numerous reasons why cleaning your chimney is important. Here are some of them.
5 Reasons to Clean Your Chimney in Spring | Prevention
Chimney fires can happen at any time. They can be big or small. A chimney inspection is always needed in case there is a potential for a fire. The main reason why chimney fires start is because of buildup in the chimney. Creosote is a residue that when it gets hot can be very combustible. The condensation sticks to the inside walls of the chimney which at the end leaves a residue.
5 Reasons to Clean Your Chimney in Spring | Blockages
Soot and creosote buildup can create a blockage in the chimney. It can block the airflow causing a fire. Wood and gas fireplaces can produce toxic air pollutants. A properly functioning chimney makes sure that these toxins stay out of your home. Leaves and debris can fall into the chimney and create a blockage. If a chimney has a blockage can cause a buildup of gases which could be deadly and poisoning. When a chimney is cleaned you are protecting your home and family.
5 Reasons to Clean Your Chimney in Spring | Odors
If you are noticing some odor coming from your chimney, it may be time to clean it. There could be excessive buildup of residue that are producing odors. Even if the fireplace is not being used a buildup can produce odors. Clearing out any buildup in the chimney and fireplace at the end of Winter will greatly reduce the amount of odor coming from your fireplace during the Summer months. Your overall air quality will improve also.
5 Reasons to Clean Your Chimney in Spring | Damaged Liners and More
When you have a chimney inspection, it can reveal if there is any damaged liners or flue. A professional technician can provide you with information on any problems you may be experiencing and recommend any fixing that needs to be done.
5 Reasons to Clean Your Chimney in Spring | Be Proactive
It is better to be proactive about scheduling your chimney inspection during the Spring months. The availability is greater since most people are not using their fireplaces at this time. Professional chimney sweep companies are usually very busy during the Fall months getting things ready for the harsh Winters. Having your chimney and fireplace cleaned and being maintained will help keep your fireplace in good working order and will also keep your home and family safe. Give you and your family peace of mind and have your chimney and fireplace fully cleaned out so you can enjoy a warm fire and be ready for the first day of Winter for that year. Make your chimney maintenance a priority this Spring season.
Searching for the best 5 Reasons to Clean Your Chimney in Spring? Give St. John Chimney Sweeps a call today! We have been in business for more than 15 years. Being a full service chimney and fireplace sweeping and installation company, we offer 100% customer satisfaction and no-mess guarantee. Feel free to contact us to inquire about our free estimates. Our employees have undergone extensive training and earned certificates, which enable them to do your job with full expertise. We are honest and efficient, providing thorough explanations for all our work. St. John Chimney Sweeps is a NJ Chimney Sweep & NJ Chimney Repair that fulfills all chimney and fireplace Sweeping and installation needs for both residential and commercial clients.
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by admin | Aug 11, 2021 | NJ Chimney Inspection, NJ Chimney Sweep
A considerable amount of house fires in Mercer County are caused when creosote cakes up up on the interior of a chimney. Despite that fact, many homeowners continue to disregard this significant risk, and don’t take preventative measures when it comes to Mercer County chimney cleaning. When houses were heated by fireplaces only, prior to the Industrial Revolution, chimney sweeps were in demand as 19th century homeowners realized how important a clean chimney was for avoiding house fires.
Mercer County Chimney Cleaning
In the 21st century, avoiding a house fire is just as important. Even though most contemporary homeowners use their fireplaces for coziness or have remote controlled natural gas flames to fuel their fires, the majority still use wood to burn and are susceptible to creosote buildup in their dampers and flues. Homeowners are urged to have their chimneys inspected for creosote buildup and a chimney cleaning if necessary in the spring of each year.
Chimney fires are characterized by loud cracking or popping noises and a lot of dense smoke from the flue, but often times go undetected by the homeowner. Chimney fires are often explosive, and it is common for neighbors to hear the explosions and alert the homeowner. Chimney fires can burn at extremely high temperatures (up to 2,000 degrees F).
These super-hot fires will weaken masonry chimney structure after creosote residue builds up in sufficient quantities. The conditions that tend to attract creosote buildup include the natural lack of air supply in chimneys, burning wood that lacks enough seasoning, and cool chimney temperatures that occur in four-season environments. Overloading your firebox to get longer fires can also contribute to creosote residue buildup in your chimney.
So, how often do chimney fires happen? Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) statistics indicate there are more than 25,000 chimney fires annually in the US. These cause over $125 million in property damage, but, if they spread to occupied homes the measurement of human deaths and injuries is impossible to compute.
How Often Should You Get Mercer County Chimney Cleaning Service?
You should have an annual chimney inspection by a reputable Mercer County chimney sweep organization. Depending on how often you use your fireplace to burn wood, creosote residue will build up in your chimney. There are many factors that influence the amount of creosote stuck to the walls of your chimney, such as the volume of airflow into your chimney and burning improperly seasoned wood, which encourage such a buildup. Creosote will also buildup in the flue if you have unburned wood in the firebox.
There is not a “hard and firm” rule of thumb on how often to clean your chimney. An examination by an experienced chimney sweep is the only way to learn if your chimney, whether masonry or metal, needs a cleaning.
Modern prefabricated metal chimneys are specially treated to withstand the high temperatures of a chimney fire without suffering severe damage. Should they suffer damage from a chimney fire, the professional recommendation is to no longer use the chimney until you replace the unit.
Forms of Preventative Maintenance:
A common homeowner question: “How can I maintain the safety of my chimney between professional cleanings to avoid chimney fires?” There are things homeowners can do to better avoid often dangerous chimney fires. Here are a few steps Mercer County homeowners can take:
- Do not let ashes gather in the firebox. Clean them out if they are accumulating.
- Be sure to only use seasoned firewood in your fireplace. If you gather it yourself, season it for a year or more before you burn it. If you buy it from a vendor, ensure that the firewood company only offers seasoned wood.
- Ensure the damper is entirely open BEFORE lighting a fire in the firebox.
- Do not burn pressure-treated or painted wood in the fireplace. This will hasten creosote buildup (pressure-treated wood) or potentially create toxic fumes (painted wood) that are dangerous to your family members.
- Put the largest logs on the bottom of the firebox, followed by smaller logs on top. Why? The fire will burn hotter and produce less smoke. Top that pile with kindling (around one inch) and crushed newspaper to get the fire started properly. This method will retard residue buildup in your chimney.
- Have an annual inspection of your chimney by a professional. Hire an experienced, reliable chimney sweep to mechanically clean your chimney, removing tar and creosote.
Can Just Use “Chimney Sweeping Logs?”
It is not really the logs that do much, but the chemicals within them. Some “chimney sweeping log” products claim to assist retarding creosote buildup, and some of them do so. Those that are somewhat effective in maintaining your chimney between cleanings contain chemicals similar to the chemicals used by chimney sweeps for professional cleanings.
The chemicals are carried up the flue by the rising exhaust from the safe fire in your fireplace. These logs break down the residue coating the inside of your chimney, but many experts have a problem with the marketing strategy for these products.
If you read the “fine print” disclosures for these logs, you will see that the chemicals imbedded in them are labelled “might reduce creosote by as much as 60 percent.” However, experts refute this by saying, “The use of chimney sweeping logs alone is not an adequate substitute for mechanical chimney cleaning and inspection because it does not provide for the same level of protection to the chimney system. Every time you burn wood in your fireplace or wood stove, tar and creosote are formed and over time build up on the inside of your chimney.”
The bottom line is to not rely solely on chimney sweeping logs rather than hiring a professional Mercer County chimney sweep to clean your chimney. While they can help you maintain your chimney between professional chimney sweep cleanings, they do not replace the need for regular chimney inspections and cleanings.
Looking for the Best Mercer County Chimney Sweep?
If you’re looking for the best Mercer County chimney sweep, 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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