Highpoint Chimney Services Is Proud to Offer Quality Chimney Services in Flemington
We’re proud to serve folks living in Flemington, Raritan Township, Bethlehem Township, Franklin Township, Franklin, Franklin Park, Ringoes, East Amwell Township, and more. If you live in the area, be sure to give us a call next time you need chimney or fireplace services. Our crew is experienced, licensed, and always puts you first.
Have you spent the day out and about in Flemington visiting great local spots, like Dutch Country Farmers Market, Northlandz (a fun model railroad museum), or Flemington Ice Arena? Or maybe the day was more low-key, spent running errands, mailing a few letters, returning some library books, and picking up groceries?
No matter what your day looks like, be sure you’re ending it on a high note by sitting in front of your cozy fireplace, insert, or stove. The Highpoint Chimney Services team is here to ensure your system stays in the best condition possible.
Our Service List Is Comprehensive
Did the local forecast predict bad storms or cold weather? Make sure your fireplace is ready for an evening indoors. We can help with the following chimney and fireplace services.
Chimney Sweepings & Inspections
We offer level 1 and level 2 inspections, ensuring your chimney is covered, no matter your needs. And if your inspection revealed dangerous levels of buildup, we can take care of all that, too, with a thorough chimney cleaning. We’ll clear out creosote, twigs, leaves, animals, nesting materials, and more, so you can enjoy your system with ease and peace of mind.
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Chimney & Fireplace Repairs
Damages can make your system unsafe for use and function less efficiently. No matter what type of damage or issue your system is facing, we want to be the team you turn to for chimney repairs and preventive maintenance. Count on us for the following services:
- Masonry Repairs
- Leaky Chimney Repairs
- Waterproofing
- Chimney Relining
- HeatShield®
- Smoke Chamber Parging
We can also install or replace your chimney cap, refractory panels, chase cover, chimney throat damper, or lock-top damper. Ensure your system is equipped with the highest-quality parts possible by turning to us for it all.
Dryer Vent Cleaning
Dryer vent cleaning is a service that’s often overlooked or pushed to the back burner – but that doesn’t make it any less important. Like chimney inspections, dryer vent cleanings should be completed annually to decrease your risk of hazards and ensure your system is running as efficiently as possible.
If your clothes are taking a long time to dry, or if you notice your laundry seems especially hot to the touch, be sure to reach out to our techs to get the maintenance scheduled.
Stove & Insert Installation
Ready for a new system? We sell and install both fireplace inserts and stoves, and we’d be happy to explore your options with you. These systems are known for increasing efficiency and heat output, and they are great for those looking to upgrade or switch fuel types too.
Trust our certified and experienced sweeps for a job done right, so you can enjoy your new setup with ease, enjoyment, and peace of mind.
Why Does My Chimney & Fireplace Smell?
The scene we set above about sitting in front of a cozy fire paints a pretty great picture, doesn’t it? But if your chimney and fireplace are causing foul odors to enter your living space, this isn’t so ideal.
So, what are the main causes of chimney odors?
- Creosote: Creosote isn’t known for having a good smell, and if too much accumulates in your flue, or if it gets the chance to mix with water, you could notice some campfire-like smells entering your living space.
- Moisture: Like we said, water plus creosote equals nasty smells, but excess moisture can invite a number of other odors as well. If the odors are mustier, it could be due to mold growth, or if water mixes with the debris in your flue, this will create bad smells as well.
- Downdrafts: Do outdoor winds have easy access to your flue? If your system isn’t adequately protected, this may be an issue. And as the downdrafts swoop through your flue – and into your living space – they’re bound to bring some bad smells in with them.
- Animals: Live animals in your flue tend to get comfortable pretty quick – meaning they’ll use your flue to store food, have babies, and use the bathroom. All of those things trigger odors, and if the critters get stuck and pass away, that’ll trigger some foul smells as well.
- Debris: As debris builds up in your flue, you could notice some odors linked to all of it, especially if moisture gets in and dampens everything up.
Creosote
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What Can Be Done to Prevent Chimney Odors?
So, knowing what causes odors to form is always good knowledge to have… but you’ll also need to know how to get rid of them, then prevent them from coming back down the line. What can be done?
- Book a sweeping. Most of the time, odors are caused by something trapped in your flue, whether it’s an animal, some built-up debris, or creosote. A thorough sweeping completed by a certified chimney sweep should ensure all of that stuff is removed, so you don’t get a whiff of something unpleasant every time you walk by your fireplace.
- Invest in a chimney cap. Getting debris out of your chimney is important, but it’d be better to prevent it from entering in the first place. A sturdy, well-built, and properly installed chimney cap will keep out critters, debris, and water. As an added bonus, they should block any downdrafts too.
- Upgrade your chimney damper. Switching to a lock-top damper could help a lot with your chimney odor issues. These work alongside the chimney cap to keep out winds, debris, and more, so you’ll be getting double the protection.
- Invest in leak prevention. Keeping your chimney free of moisture will help keep odors at bay, and it will keep your system in better shape for the long haul too. Ensure your crown, flashing, chase cover, and more are in good condition and can properly do their job. We’d suggest booking professional waterproofing services too.
- Ensure good airflow. Doing everything possible to keep draft and airflow in check will ensure any foul odors lingering in your flue can’t work their way back into your home. Need some suggestions? We’ve got you covered – call today.
- Burn seasoned wood. Burning unseasoned wood produces more smoke (which in and of itself is stinky), but it also encourages creosote buildup, which can cause more odors to form – and warrants the need for more frequent chimney cleanings.
- Schedule an inspection. If all else fails, book an inspection, so that your sweep can do an in-depth assessment and get to the bottom of your chimney odors. Our techs are experts at troubleshooting, and we’re certain we can help you find the best solutions possible.
Now, some of these things you can do on your own, but for most you’ll need the help of a team of sweeps who really know their stuff. Fortunately for folks in Middlesex County, Hunterdon County, and Somerset County, we can handle it all. Give us a call today to get your next service booked.
Smelly Chimney Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s run through some of the more common questions homeowners tend to have about their smelly chimney or fireplace. And if we missed anything, please reach out. Home odors are something no homeowner should have to deal with, and we’d love to do all we can to ensure your space is as comfortable and as safe as possible.
Can a smelly chimney be dangerous?
Yes – most of the time a chimney odor is linked to damage or buildup in your chimney, which means something is happening that shouldn’t be. Creosote buildup, for example, can lead to chimney fires if the system continues being used, and things like masonry damage or missing components can put your home at risk too.
And if you have a gas fireplace, it could indicate you have a gas leak, which could invite some serious health risks if not promptly taken care of. If you’re concerned you have a gas leak, reach out to the proper authorities immediately. In addition, make sure you have both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors installed throughout your home.
All in all, odors are typically a sign of bigger issues, which should always be addressed before lighting any more fires.
How often should I have my chimney cleaned to prevent odor?
We’ll always recommend chimney owners invest in annual inspections, during which the sweep can recommend further maintenance if needed, including sweepings. Be sure to keep up with regular maintenance, then follow your sweeps recommendations for keeping your system in the best shape possible.
In addition, if you notice any chimney odors, be sure to have a certified tech come in to look things over as soon as possible. And don’t put your system to use until then.
Can animals in the chimney cause odor?
Absolutely. Rodents, birds, woodland critters, and the like aren’t exactly known for smelling the best, and if they coop up in your chimney, they’ll set up nests, have babies, and defecate – all of which triggers even more odors. And, unfortunately, sometimes animals get stuck, pass away, and start to decompose – which is also a cause for bad smells, and it can attract pests too.
A well-fitted chimney cap can help prevent animals from entering your chimney, and by investing in annual inspections, you can ensure any potential buildup is promptly removed – and that your chimney stays odor-free.
Will a chimney cap prevent chimney odors?
A chimney cap can play a big part in preventing odors by keeping out animals, debris, and moisture, and by preventing downdrafts from swooping through your flue. However, it can’t do the job all on its own. You’ll also need to be sure you’re investing in regular chimney sweepings, and by doing what you can to keep your system running appropriately.
What should I do if I smell gas coming from my chimney?
If you’re operating a gas-fueled fireplace, and you notice a rotten egg smell coming from somewhere near the system, this is a clear indicator that gas is leaking out. Leave your home immediately, then call in the fire department, so they can safely get the situation under control. Then, once your home is safe to be in again, book an appointment with our techs, so we can ensure your fireplace gets back to operating as safely as possible.
Keep in mind, too, that if your system is leaking carbon monoxide, this will be far less noticeable. Carbon monoxide is both colorless and odorless, so detecting its presence is next to impossible. Unfortunately, since this gas can be deadly, this makes it a huge threat.
Be aware of potential symptoms (like nausea, confusion, dizziness, light-headedness, headaches, etc.), and have carbon monoxide detectors installed throughout your home as well, to minimize the risk of extended exposure.
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You Can Count on Our Trustworthy Techs
Our team of experts is here for you. We serve Flemington and the surrounding areas with care, precision, and a dedication to be honest and straightforward every step of the way. We always put your needs and safety first, and we work with high ethical standards, so rest assured that you’re always getting the best care possible.
We hold a long list of industry certifications and memberships, we’re licensed and insured, and we have over two decades of experience in the chimney sweep world. There’s no better crew to trust to address any and all of your chimney-related concerns.
If you need care, reach out today, so we can get started. Give us a call at 908-864-4114 or you can schedule your next appointment online. We look forward to helping you out soon.
Being able to get professional chimney services and repairs when you need them is easy when you live within our service area… just ask the residents of Whitehouse Station.