Chimney questions, answered
Plain answers to what homeowners around Lake Hopatcong ask most often.
Sweeping
How often should a chimney be swept?
NFPA 211 calls for a yearly inspection, and a sweep whenever that inspection finds enough buildup. In practice, a fireplace or stove used through a full winter needs sweeping about once a year.
How do I know it is due?
Look up past the damper with a flashlight. If the soot on the flue wall is about an eighth of an inch thick, or looks shiny and tar-like, it is due. A strong smoky smell in humid weather is another sign.
Is sweeping messy?
It should not be. The hearth is covered and the firebox opening is closed off, and loosened soot is collected by a vacuum instead of being left to settle in the room.
Do wood stoves and inserts need sweeping?
Yes, and often more than open fireplaces. They burn slower and send cooler smoke up the liner, which leaves more creosote behind. See chimney sweep in Hopatcong.
Do chimney cleaning logs replace a sweep?
No. They can dry out some deposits so they brush off more easily, but they do not remove them and they cannot show you the condition of the flue.
Inspections and repairs
What is the difference between a sweep and an inspection?
A sweep cleans the flue. An inspection assesses its condition. Chimney inspection explains the three levels.
Why is water coming in around my fireplace?
The usual sources are a missing cap, a cracked crown or failed flashing. Chimney repair covers each one.
Do I really need a chimney cap?
A cap keeps out rain, leaves and animals and stops sparks leaving the flue. An uncapped chimney deteriorates faster. See chimney cap installation.
Can a cracked flue liner be repaired?
Sometimes. It depends on the liner material and how far the damage runs. Chimney liner repair goes through the options.
Why does my fireplace smoke?
Usually a dirty or blocked flue, a damper fault or a house that is short of air. Fireplace repair lists the causes.
Booking
When is the best time of year to book?
Late spring to early fall. The flue is cold and any repair can be finished before you need the fireplace.
Which towns do you cover?
Hopatcong and fourteen nearby towns. The full list is on the service areas page.
How do I book?
Call (973) 233-4076 or use the form on the contact page.
Looking for your town? See our service areas.