How Often Should a Chimney Be Swept?

There’s one resource you should turn to when it comes to chimney safety and all things chimney related—it’s the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) also helpfully contributes to standards and advice on chimney, but as far as the amount of sweepings per year is concerned, the CSIA tends to disagree with the NFPA.

According to CSIA, open masonry fireplaces should be swept when there is a presence of 1/8” of soot build up and sooner if there’s glaze present in the chimney system. Of course, this can mean more sweepings than just once a year, but it also means keeping your chimney safely functioning.

The CSIA argues that just an 1/8” of build up can mean that there’s enough fuel to cause a chimney fire, which is extremely dangerous and damaging. Chimney fires can even spread to the main home.

The NFPA is ambiguous in comparison to the CSIA, stating in their Standard 211, “Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances.

Cleaning, maintenance, and repairs shall be done if necessary.” As you can see, the CSIA has clearly done their research in concern with the amount of chimney sweeping necessary to keep the system without hazards.

What to Expect During the Chimney Sweeping Process

After selecting a company and making an appointment for a chimney sweep, you can expect to receive a call confirming your appointment in advance. You might have been given a general time for the chimney sweep to show up at some point during the day. If you didn’t receive a phone call confirmation, it won’t hurt to give the company a call to make sure a chimney sweep is planning on servicing your home as scheduled.

Your appointed chimney sweep will survey and prep the area for a proper cleaning and sweeping. You can expect them to lay a drop cloth or plastic down where they will be cleaning to protect your home and furnishings. The chimney sweeps will also have a shop-vac ready to sweep up any mess.

Chimney sweeps use a heavy metal bristled brush to clean your chimney. These tools are long rods, with the bristles located at the very tip. Professional chimney sweeps will also be outfitted in gloves, goggles, and masks to protect themselves from the soot and ash.

The chimney sweeps will begin from the flue and work their way up, begin at the roof’s chimney access and work their way down, or in some cases, do both. Either way, the ultimate goal for them is to scrape the coating that has accumulated and built up on the chimney lining from numerous fires. The coating and debris will fall to the fireplace, be swept up and vacuumed away.

Debris like creosote can form from having fires in a wood-burning fireplace. Creosote is toxic and can clog a chimney, making a chimney-sweeping all the more essential. Animals can also build homes in chimneys.

Chimneys are the perfect spot for animals, or at least they think it is—quiet, dark and protected from the elements. When a fire is lit, however, this can be deadly for animals trapped inside. Chimney sweeps can remove animals and nests safely, encouraging them to find much better places to set up camp, for everyone.

Although the CSIA advises to have a chimney cleaned when there’s 1/8” of debris on the chimney walls, this can be difficult for an average homeowner to gauge. It’s a safe bet to make your next appointment six months to a year in advance, depending on the season.

Prepare for Your Chimney Sweeping Appointment

There are a few things you can do to prep for the arrival of your chimney sweep. Move any furniture you’re worried about back a few feet away from the chimney and cover it with plastic or a drop cloth. Do the same with any other rugs or tapestries that might be exposed in the room with the chimney.

While it might go without saying, don’t light a fire before your appointment. Your chimney sweep needs to work with a chimney that’s been cooled for at least 24 hours. Also make sure that you’re at home the day of the appointment, even if the company has given you a general time for the chimney sweeps to arrive. You’ll want to let them in and show them inside so they can do their job efficiently and effectively.

Finding a trusted, well-reviewed, and certified company to sweep your chimney is half the battle. The rest of it is up to you in ensuring that you are scheduling appointments at least twice a year to have your chimneys swept.

Roofing And Gutter Repair & Maintenance

Maybe you’ve noticed some broken shingles on your roof, or you’ve recently had a problem with leaks dripping from the ceiling. The elements can do a number on even the best of roofs, and the day may come when you need a roof replacement. While installing a new roof is a complex project that’s not recommended for a typical DIYer, it is handy to know how to replace a roof when you’re hiring a local roofing contractor to do the job for you. Here’s what to expect, from start to finish.

Why Do I Need a Roof Replacement?

Roofs can last 20 to 50 years or longer depending on the material and how well you maintain it, but they experience a lot of wear and tear over their lifespan. From high winds and flying twigs to leaf and snow buildup, the elements can lead to broken shingles, warping, leaks, or mold growth. Roofs keep you and your family safe, but only if they are in good condition. Otherwise, they can cause costly leaks or, in extreme cases, are at risk of collapse.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a New Roof?

A new roof or a roof replacement costs an average of $9,000, or around $5,700 to $12,300. About 40% of the total cost goes toward materials. This is a dangerous job that requires a lot of advanced skills, so you’ll be paying about 60% of the project total for labor. Each roofing square, which is about 100 square feet, costs $150 to $1,500 just for the materials.

Signs It’s Time for a Roof Replacement

There are several signs it’s time for a roof replacement to keep an eye out for, especially if you have a roof over 20 years old. Here are some key symptoms of a roof that needs to be replaced:

• The roof’s life expectancy is coming to an end.
• You notice damage, like broken or warped shingles or cracked roof tiles.
• The roof is sagging or feels bouncy to the touch.
• The roof’s flashing, which protects against water leaks, is damaged.
• You have leaks or can see sunlight through the attic ceiling.

Gutter Repair & Replacement

When To Replace Your Gutters

We are often asked, “when is the right time to replace gutters?” Many of our local customers in Passaic County, Morris County, Bergen County, will often ask us this question.

The first sign that it is time to replace the gutters is when they are looking old, sagging or severely discolored or damaged. Another sign is when the gutter system is leaking water or when it is out of pitch, meeting the gutters are draining incorrectly. When this time comes call our gutter replacement contractors at 973-513-5475 and we will come out for no charge and evaluate it.

Common Types Of Gutter Installations We Do

As a gutter cleaning repair and installation company, some of the more common types of gutter installations / repairs that we encounter are:

Downspout extensions. Extend downspouts away from foundation to allow water to drain away from the house and basement. This is an effective way to prevent and stop basement water leaks.

Rehang gutters. This refers to gutters that have become loose and dislodged from the fascia board. We install hidden hangers and it works much better than nails because it adheres correctly to the fascia borders. Remember, fewer gutter seams means fewer leaks!

Leaking gutter miters. Miters are corner pieces where two sections of gutter come together. Leaking in this area is a very common problem. The best solution is to remove existing miter and replace it with a new one along with a Spotless five-year guarantee on defects in workmanship.

Drip edge. Drip edges are aluminum flashing that extends the bridge for rainwater to be extended into the gutter. This is a common solution to a difficult problem of water going behind the gutter.

Whether natural elements have damaged your gutters and you need a full gutter replacement, or you looking for light gutter leak repairs, our professionals offer solutions that will help.

Repairing Masonry: What You Need To Know

Our quality masonry services are a must for any homeowner with chimneys, steps, or siding made from brick, concrete, stone, or other masonry materials. While some damage may be cosmetic and doesn’t pose a severe threat to the home’s structure, additional damage may be more catastrophic and lead to structural failure.

That’s why it’s essential to know the signs of damage and have a qualified masonry repair contractor regularly inspect your home. Some common symptoms of damage include:

• Cracks in the masonry, especially around doors and windows
• Chipped or crumbling masonry
• Water staining or efflorescence
• Damaged mortar joints

If you notice any of these signs of damage, don’t wait to call a contractor. The sooner you get the damage repaired, the less expensive it will be.

Repairing masonry will restore the beauty of your home, but it will also help protect it from further damage. Contact us today for a free estimate and find out how we can help you!

We understand that home improvement services can be a big investment, so we offer free estimates and a 10 percent discount for first-time buyers to help you decide if it’s the right option for you. We want to make sure that you’re making the best decision for your home, and our masonry repair service is one of the best ways to do that.

The Common Structures We Work On

• Chimneys
• Steps
• Siding
• Arches
• Columns
• Pavements
• Walkways

Chimney & Fireplace Repair & Rebuild

No matter what condition your chimney and fireplace are in, we can help. Whether you are facing small cracks in your firebox or a crumbling chimney structure, we know just how to fix your problem and restore your system. Our masonry repair services include the following:

Tuckpointing

Tuck pointing is the process of repairing small cracks and mortar joints on a masonry structure. This is a common cosmetic repair for older chimneys and chimneys that have been affected by water and bad weather. Tuck pointing is important because it doesn’t just repair your chimney’s appearance it also helps reinforce the strength and integrity of the structure.

Crown Repair

Your chimney crown is an important part of your chimney’s fight against water damage. Many people confuse this with a chimney cap, but it is actually a layer of concrete that sits atop your chimney and directs water away from the masonry structure. If this is cracked or badly constructed, it can allow water to seep into your chimney and cause major issues. We can repair and even rebuild your chimney crown depending on the severity of the damage.

Firebox Repair

If your firebox is cracked, it needs to be repaired before you can safely enjoy a fire. If you burn a fire in a firebox with cracks in the masonry, heat from the fire can be transferred to other parts of your home, which can be a major fire hazard. Elite Chimney NJ Services specializes in firebox rebuilds and repairs, so when you work with us, you’re in good hands.

We Also Perform Complete Chimney & Fireplace Rebuilds!

Chimney Installation, Replacement, and Repairs

100% Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed! 24/7 Service One-Hour Emergency Service.

The Importance of Furnace Liners

Furnaces, boilers and hot water tanks exhaust large quantities of water vapor during the normal combustion process of natural gas. Oil and gas furnaces produce by-products which can literally eat away the flue lining. Any type of furnace liner that is breached can cause a fire, since heat can reach combustible parts of the home. Clay liner that have gaps or cracks, allow this moisture into the interior structure which eventually deteriorates the masonry structure from the inside out. Additionally, gases vented from gas burning appliances can escape the lining and migrate into the home.

For decades, federal and professional safety organizations have recommended installing a liner in your chimney as a protective measure. Chimney liners provide an additional layer of fireside protection and reduce corrosion on the chimney walls. As an additional benefit, chimney liners improve the efficiency of appliances to scale back utility costs.

Blockage in a furnace flue is extremely hazardous because it can cause carbon monoxide fumes to enter your home.

One of the most common problems that can occur with chimneys is blockage, regardless of what type of furnace fuel is used.

A furnace flue inspection should be scheduled

• At least once per year
• Before moving into a new home
• Before / After the installation of a new furnace

A chimney liner insulates the chimney and puts a stop to flue gases from entering your home

In addition a chimney liner:

• Increases structural stability of the chimney
• Eases maintenance
• Improves fuel efficiency
• Increases fireplace safety

In Need of Chimney Cleaning Services?

We are specialized in chimney sweep, chimney liner, chimney repair, fireplace repair, fireplace damper repair, chimney inspection. Contact us at 973-513-5475 to set up an appointment today.

The Purpose And Function Of A Chimney Cap

A chimney without a chimney cap is like a house with no roof. Your chimney is, of course, an exit route for combustion gases. But, without a chimney cap, your chimney is also an open invitation for various unwanted elements that get inside. If there is no chimney cap covering your flue pipe, experts recommend that you contact a qualified chimney sweep without delay. Your chimney should be inspected for signs of damage caused by the lack of protection, and the immediate installation of a chimney cap is needed. Read on to learn more about the purpose and function of a chimney cap.

Keep Out The Enemy

Moisture isa chimney’s worst enemy and keeping it out requires a chimney cap and a chimney structure in good working condition. Rain, snow, and sleet flow directly into a chimney flue that doesn’t have a protective chimney cap. The interior of your home can suffer water damage from the inpouring water, in addition to chimney components experiencing accelerated deterioration, including rusting.

Inside the flue, the mixture of water with acidic creosote deposits has the destructive effect of eating away at the chimney liner. When a chimney liner is damaged to even the smallest degree, repair or replacement is a must. A chimney liner must not have a breach because its function is to keep hazardous elements contained within the chimney

Water Proofing

Is Water Proofing A Chimney Necessary?

In most cases, a waterproofed chimney at some point in the past will not need re-doing for years. This is beneficial as it shows you may end up saving money while at the same time protecting your home. But when you have never gotten your chimney waterproofed before, you might want to consider doing so.

The benefits of waterproofing are vast and can save you money for years. Prevent future damage to the structure of your chimney. When water gets into your chimney, it can wreak havoc and can compromise even well-constructed brick from this wetness.

Cause Of Chimney Leakage

Below is a guide to why your chimney may be leaking:

Damaged Flashing

Flashing is a thin metal strip that you install around your chimney. When the flashing has damage, water can leak into the chimney. It can cause damage to its structure or interior elements. Remember that water leaking into your chimney can end up damaging the mortar joints. This is why you need to consider replacing such.

The flashing ensures that the connection between your chimney and roof is watertight. This will help keep you safe from any moisture entering into cracks or crevices where it might cause damage to equipment. Prevent fires in case of extreme weather conditions such as heavy snowfall. It can wreak havoc on your home with dry fuel sources nearby such as those made from wood.

Damaged Chimney Cap

A chimney cap is an important part of your chimney. It helps to keep weather conditions, debris, and animals out of it. Prevent moisture from entering the system. When your cap has damage in any way, water can easily get into the structure of your chimney.

Moisture that enters your chimney through a damaged cap will freeze and thaw as seasons change. This will cause the masonry to erode over time. You cannot see this damage from outside. But it can seriously compromise the overall stability of your chimney.

Missing Mortar

Mortar joints are crucial for your chimney. They hold the bricks together and help keep moisture from entering the system. When these joints are missing, water can get into your chimney and cause serious damage.

Water is a powerful force that can easily damage your home and potentially lead to an expensive repair! Moisture that the masonry absorbs could cause gaps or missing mortar. It will let water access the chimney structure where it is even more susceptible to further damages.

Missing mortar joints in between bricks are a frequent problem on brick chimneys. The porous material often erodes from water damage or cracks. It crumbles out through the accumulating wear incurred when freezing or thawing occurs over time.

Reasons To Waterproof  Your Chimney?

Waterproofing helps to protect your chimney against the elements. It benefits you with:

Lower Risk of Fire Damage

A waterproofed chimney is less likely to catch fire than a non-waterproofed one. The masonry remains stable, and it can resist heat better than most other materials commonly used for this purpose.

Prevent future water problems where moisture could wreak havoc on your home. Water damage is a scenario nobody wants to deal with – especially in winter! Water leakage can lead to dangerous conditions.

Increase The Life-Span of Your Chimney

The benefits are worth it because it protects your chimney system from weathering, water, and rust damage.

Types Of Chimney Waterproofing

Professionals use two types of waterproofing often:

Internal Waterproofing Membrane

Install this membrane on the inside of the chimney. It is a watertight sealant that will help keep moisture out. The membrane will also prevent any soot or creosote from entering into the structure and damaging it.

External Waterproofing Coating

Apply this coating to the exterior of your chimney. It helps to repel water and protect it from weather damage. This type of waterproofing is more common because it is easier to apply and less invasive than internal waterproofing.

Both methods have benefits and drawbacks. But they both can extend the life of your chimney significantly.

Level-one Chimney Inspection

A level-one chimney inspection includes is a visual check of the chimney and / or fireplace. It does not include any special equipment.

We come to your house and look for possible damage, obstructions, creosote buildup, and soot so we will advise you if the chimney requires sweeping. If it does need sweeping or other procedures, we will provide you with an estimate.

Level-two Chimney Inspection

A level-two chimney inspection is crucial if you’ve experienced dramatic weather event and it is also vital if you’ve made a major change to your fireplace; or recently bought a house.

Level two chimney inspection includes chimney inspection, visit of the roof, attic, and crawl space in search of disrepair but we also might use the video scanning and other special tools. Level two chimney inspection concludes with a chimney sweep, if necessary, and information on what repair is needed.

Level-three Chimney Inspection

A level-three chimney inspection is destructive and can resemble a demolition job. Level three chimney inspection may involve tearing down and rebuilding (walls, chimney). Level three chimney inspection is most often needed after a fire. The cases where it is needed can vary so also the price of chimney inspection varies, depending on the size and location of the chimney.

Depending on the state of your chimney we can provide you with all the chimney services that chimney inspection might show that should be done. Here is a list of chimney services we offer:

Chimney inspections and services