If your Evesham Township chimney hasn’t been inspected and cleaned this year, small issues can turn into dangerous hazards when temperatures drop. From creosote buildup to cracked flues, catching problems early saves money, time, and your family’s safety. Schedule your chimney sweep now—before the fall rush hits.
1. A chimney inspection is a thorough visual and functional check of your flue, liner, smoke chamber, damper, and exterior masonry to identify damage, blockages, or hazardous buildup before they cause a fire or carbon monoxide leak.
In Evesham Township, where many homes use wood-burning fireplaces or gas inserts, a chimney inspection is your first line of defense against hidden dangers. The Chimney Safety Institute of America recommends at least a Level I inspection annually for most homes, especially if you burn seasoned hardwood or use your fireplace regularly. During an inspection, our certified technicians climb onto your roof, check the chimney cap for damage, examine the flue liner for cracks, and test the damper’s operation. We also look for water stains on the masonry, which signal a leaky crown or flashing. In older Westampton Township homes—especially those built before 1980—we often find deteriorated mortar joints or missing chimney caps, both of which let water and pests inside. Don’t wait until you smell smoke or see soot on your walls. Schedule your inspection now using our free online booking tool.
2. Creosote buildup is the black, tar-like residue that coats your flue after burning wood, and it’s the leading cause of chimney fires in New Jersey.
Creosote forms in three stages: from flaky soot to a hardened glaze that’s nearly impossible to remove without professional tools. In Evesham Township, where many homes use oak or maple for heat, creosote accumulates faster than in homes burning softer woods. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that creosote is responsible for over 25% of residential chimney fires nationwide. A standard chimney cleaning removes this buildup, but if you’ve gone more than a year without service—or if you’ve burned unseasoned wood—you may need a more intensive cleaning. We use rotary brushes and HEPA vacuums to clear every inch of your flue, ensuring safe airflow. If your fireplace has a strong campfire smell even when not in use, that’s a red flag. Don’t ignore it: creosote odors worsen over time and can seep into your living space. Book a cleaning today to protect your home and family.
3. Do you see white, chalky stains or efflorescence on your chimney’s exterior bricks? That’s a sign water is seeping through cracked mortar or a failing crown.
Efflorescence is the telltale white residue left behind when water evaporates from masonry, leaving behind mineral deposits. In Evesham Township, where freeze-thaw cycles are common, this moisture can freeze and expand, cracking bricks and loosening mortar joints. A cracked chimney crown is another silent culprit—it’s the concrete or stone slab at the top of your chimney that keeps rain out. If you notice missing chunks or a sunken appearance, it’s time for repair. We offer chimney crown repair and tuckpointing to restore your chimney’s integrity. Left unchecked, water damage can lead to structural failure or even collapse. If your chimney looks discolored or has visible cracks, don’t wait for the next storm. Contact us for a free estimate today.
4. A strong, acrid odor coming from your fireplace—even when it’s not in use—often means creosote or soot has accumulated in the smoke chamber or flue.
This smell is unmistakable and lingers in your home long after the fire dies. In Evesham Township, where many homes have attached garages or open floor plans, these odors spread quickly. The cause is usually incomplete combustion, which leaves behind sticky residues that cling to the flue walls. If you’ve noticed this issue, it’s a sign your chimney needs both cleaning and inspection. We recommend scheduling service before the fall season, when cooler nights drive more homeowners to use their fireplaces. Waiting until winter means longer wait times and higher costs. Our team uses specialized vacuums and brushes to eliminate odors at the source. Don’t let your home smell like a campground—schedule your cleaning now.
5. Is your damper sticking or not opening fully? A malfunctioning damper wastes heat, increases energy bills, and can trap dangerous gases like carbon monoxide in your home.
The damper is the metal flap inside your chimney that controls airflow. If it’s stuck closed, smoke and carbon monoxide can back up into your living room. If it’s stuck open, your home loses heat through the flue. In Evesham Township, where many homes have older chimneys, dampers often corrode or warp over time. We inspect and lubricate dampers during every cleaning, ensuring they operate smoothly. If your damper is beyond repair, we can install a new one with a top-sealing design to improve efficiency. A properly functioning damper can reduce heating costs by up to 20% in the winter. Don’t overlook this critical component—schedule a service call now to keep your chimney safe and efficient.
6. Cracked or missing chimney caps are a common but often overlooked issue in Evesham Township, where squirrels, raccoons, and debris frequently find their way into unprotected flues.
A chimney cap is a metal mesh cover that sits atop your flue, keeping out rain, birds, and leaves. Without one, your chimney becomes a nesting site for pests and a trap for debris. In Westampton Township, where trees line many streets, falling branches can damage caps or dislodge them entirely. We install sturdy, custom-fitted caps that resist rust and withstand high winds. A missing cap can also lead to water damage, as rain pours directly into your flue. If you’ve noticed animals near your chimney or debris falling into your fireplace, it’s time for a cap inspection. Our team can replace or install a new cap during your next cleaning visit. Protect your chimney and your home—schedule your appointment today.
7. If it’s been more than a year since your last chimney cleaning—or if you’ve recently moved into a home with a fireplace—schedule an inspection and cleaning before the first cold snap hits Evesham Township.
The Chimney Safety Institute of America recommends cleaning your chimney when creosote buildup reaches 1/8 inch or more. For most Evesham Township homeowners, that means an annual cleaning. If you’ve recently purchased a home in the area—especially one built before 1990—we strongly recommend an inspection to check for hidden damage. Older chimneys often have deteriorated liners or cracked flues that aren’t visible from the ground. We also recommend cleaning before major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, when families gather around the fire. Waiting until winter means longer wait times and potential safety risks. Our team serves Evesham Township and nearby areas like Mount Holly, Hainesport, and Lumberton, so we’re never far away. Book your appointment now to secure your spot before the rush.
| Fuel Type | Recommended Cleaning Frequency | Recommended Inspection Frequency | Special Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wood-burning fireplace | Annually (or when creosote reaches 1/8 inch) | Annually (Level I) | Burn only seasoned hardwood; avoid softwoods like pine. |
| Gas fireplace | Every 2-3 years | Annually (Level I) | Minimal creosote buildup, but inspect for debris and moisture. |
| Pellet stove | Annually | Annually (Level I) | Check for ash buildup and blockages in the venting system. |
| Oil furnace with chimney | Annually | Annually (Level I) | Inspect for soot accumulation and corrosion. |
| Older home (pre-1980) | Annually | Annually (Level II every 3-5 years) | Higher risk of cracked liners and deteriorated masonry. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I schedule a chimney inspection in Evesham Township even if I don’t use my fireplace often?
Yes. Even if you rarely use your fireplace, a chimney inspection is essential. Birds, squirrels, and debris can block your flue, and water damage can occur without you noticing. The Chimney Safety Institute of America recommends annual inspections regardless of usage.
Is it worth paying extra for a Level II chimney inspection in Westampton Township if my fireplace looks fine?
Absolutely. A Level II inspection includes a camera scan of your flue and smoke chamber, which can detect cracks or blockages invisible to the naked eye. If your home has had a recent chimney fire, roof work, or a change in fuel type, a Level II inspection is non-negotiable.
Do I really need to clean my chimney if I only burn gas logs in Evesham Township?
Yes, but less frequently. Gas logs produce minimal creosote, so cleaning every 2-3 years is usually sufficient. However, debris, bird nests, and moisture can still accumulate, so an inspection is recommended annually.
What’s the average cost for a chimney sweep in Evesham Township, NJ, and does it include a free estimate?
Most chimney sweeps in Evesham Township charge between $120 and $250 for a standard cleaning and inspection. At Eds & Sons, we provide a free, no-obligation estimate before every service. Our pricing includes a thorough inspection, cleaning, and a detailed report of any issues found.