Chimney Sweep & Cleaning in New Jersey

What a chimney sweep includes

• Cleaning the firebox, smoke chamber and flue
• Removing soot, creosote and debris
• Clearing blockages such as leaves, nests and fallen material
• Noting the visible condition of the damper, cap and masonry while we are there
• Explaining anything we find, and what we would recommend

A sweep is not the same as a full inspection. If cleaning turns up something that needs a closer look, we will say so and explain the next step, usually a chimney inspection.

Why chimneys need sweeping

Burning wood leaves behind creosote, a tar-like byproduct that is flammable. It can build up in layers and harden, which makes it harder to remove. Soot from any fuel can also narrow the flue and affect how well the chimney draws.

Wood fireplaces and stoves produce the most creosote, but gas and oil-fired appliances also vent through chimneys. Those flues can still develop blockages, scale or corrosion, so they should be checked on a regular schedule too.

When you may need a sweep

• It has been over a year since the chimney was swept, or you do not know when it last was
• You burned a lot of wood this season
• Smoke does not draw well, or the fireplace smokes into the room
• You notice a strong smoky or tar-like smell, especially in humid weather
• You hear or see debris, or suspect an animal in the chimney
• You are moving into a home and do not know the chimney's history

How often

Standards such as NFPA 211 call for chimneys, fireplaces and vents to be inspected at least once a year and cleaned when needed. Heavy use means you may need cleaning sooner.

How the work is done

We protect the area around the fireplace, then clean from the firebox up through the flue with brushes and rods, using a vacuum to keep dust under control. When we finish, we go over what we found, and if anything needs attention we explain the options. You decide what to do next.