Question 1

How do I know if my chimney needs repair?

Accepted Answer

Signs indicating your chimney may need repair include cracked bricks, deteriorating mortar joints, a tilting structure, rusty flashing, water infiltration, white staining (known as efflorescence), or brick fragments in your yard. In the freeze-thaw climate of Northern NJ, minor cracks can rapidly evolve into significant structural issues.

Question 2

How often should I have my chimney inspected?

Accepted Answer

We advise an annual chimney inspection, particularly before the winter season. This recommendation aligns with the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), which suggests yearly inspections to ensure safe operation and mitigate fire risks.

Question 3

What causes chimney damage in New Jersey?

Accepted Answer

The weather in Northern NJ is a primary contributor to chimney damage. The freeze-thaw cycles cause moisture to expand within brick and mortar, resulting in cracks and spalling. Additionally, heavy precipitation and high humidity levels accelerate the deterioration process.

Question 4

What is chimney repointing and when is it needed?

Accepted Answer

Chimney repointing, also referred to as tuckpointing, is the process of removing damaged mortar and replacing it with new mortar to restore the chimney's structural integrity. This procedure is necessary when your mortar joints show signs of cracking or crumbling, as it can prevent the need for a complete rebuild.

Question 5

How much does chimney repair cost in Northern NJ?

Accepted Answer

The cost of chimney repair in Northern NJ varies based on the specific issue. Minor repairs may begin in the hundreds of dollars, while partial or complete chimney rebuilds can cost several thousand dollars. We offer complimentary on-site evaluations with clear, upfront pricing.

Question 6

Do I need a full chimney rebuild or just repairs?

Accepted Answer

The necessity for a full rebuild or repairs depends on the extent of the damage. If the issue is limited to failing mortar, repointing may be sufficient. However, if the bricks are severely deteriorated or the structure is unstable, a partial or complete rebuild might be required.

Question 7

How often should I have my chimney inspected and cleaned?

Accepted Answer

You should have a chimney inspection once each year, and cleaning should be done as needed after evaluation by a certified sweep to ensure safety and efficiency.

Question 8

When is the best time of year to schedule chimney cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Spring, right after the heating season, is the best time for chimney cleaning as appointments are more readily available and repairs can be conveniently completed during spring and summer.

Question 9

What chimney cleaning process does American Masonry Service use?

Accepted Answer

Most chimneys are cleaned from inside the house to control dust, using wire brushes and special flexible pole brushes to thoroughly clean the chimney flue, with vacuums trapping all debris during the process.

Question 10

Will my home be messy after chimney cleaning?

Accepted Answer

No, the cleaning is done carefully from inside your home with drop cloths and specialized vacuums to ensure no dust or debris is left behind.

Question 11

What does the chimney inspection evaluate?

Accepted Answer

The inspection checks chimney type, liner suitability, fuel types used, construction compliance with codes, clearances, installations, furnace connections, and ensures a chimney cap is present.

Question 12

Why is a chimney cap important and can it affect venting?

Accepted Answer

A properly fitted chimney cap prevents rain, snow, animals, and debris from entering your chimney and may improve venting and reduce downdrafts when professionally installed.

Question 13

Can American Masonry Service repair a damaged damper?

Accepted Answer

They can repair loose or detached dampers by reseating; damaged or cracked dampers require replacement with airtight models that help reduce heat loss when closed and protect the chimney when open.

Question 14

What are common causes of a smoking fireplace?

Accepted Answer

Smoking can be caused by improper draft due to cold air, incorrect flue or connector sizes, soot buildup, tightly sealed houses restricting air flow, or issues like open clean-out doors or negative wind pressure.

Question 15

Where is American Masonry Service located and what counties do they serve?

Accepted Answer

They are located at 133 Commerce Way #1, Hackensack, NJ 07601, and serve residences and businesses in Essex, Bergen, Morris, Sussex, and Passaic Counties in New Jersey.

Question 16

What nearby places can I visit before or after visiting American Masonry Service?

Accepted Answer

Nearby you can visit FreshDirect for groceries, CoCo Fresh Tea & Juice for bubble tea, Asian Kitchen and SGD Dubu So Gong Dong Tofu & Korean BBQ for Asian cuisine, and Hackensack Commons shopping center for retail and dining.

American Masonry Service

Business Details

About

Location

Hours

Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions About American Masonry Service