For Chimney Rebuilds & Inspections Near You in Haddonfield, NJ, Trust Mason’s Chimney Service

Here in the Haddonfield, NJ area we see lots of homes being torn down, rebuilt, and restored. And since nothing makes a house a home quite like a fireplace, those in the area need reliable chimney and fireplace services – that’s where we come in.

I’m Building a Home: What Should I Know for Chimney & Fireplace Builds & Restoration?

There are lots of things to consider if you’re adding a fireplace to a home. Here are the big questions you should be asking:

What type of fireplace do I want? Do you want a masonry system built into the home or a prefab one installed? Masonry is more classic and long-lasting, while prefab systems are more cost-efficient and less permanent.
What type of fuel do I want? Burning with wood is the more traditional option, but gas is easier to maintain and much more efficient.
Where should the fireplace go? Consulting a professional chimney technician about placement options is a must. Masonry set ups will need a chimney built, and prefab systems need a place to run the flue through, whether that’s a ceiling or wall.
Are there any building or safety codes to consider? Consult a professional to ensure local building codes for clearance distances and materials are followed precisely.
What type of maintenance is needed after the fact? You’ll want to schedule annual chimney inspections once your system is built, and consult with your chimney sweep about any other further maintenance requirements.

original graphic presents a question-and-answer format about adding a chimney to a new home. The question asks what to consider, and the answer, displayed in a speech bubble, lists key factors like fireplace type (masonry or prefab), fuel choice (wood or gas), optimal placement (requiring professional consultation), adherence to building codes, and necessary post-installation maintenance, including annual inspections.

Is It Possible To Restore an Old Chimney?

Yes, restoring an old chimney is often possible, but it will depend a lot on the current condition of the chimney. Because of this, the first step is always to schedule a thorough inspection with a professional, who can do an in-depth assessment and discuss the best plans for moving forward.

If damage isn’t extensive and only some mortar is breaking down, you may be able to restore the chimney with some repointing or tuckpointing work. If the chimney liner is cracked or damaged, relining will be necessary to ensure safe venting. In cases where bricks are flaking or cracking, individual bricks can be replaced rather than rebuilding the entire structure.

Other important restoration steps often include repairing or rebuilding a damaged chimney crown, which helps prevent water infiltration, and waterproofing the chimney with a breathable masonry sealant to protect against moisture damage. The sweep will also likely need to install new components, like a new chimney cap, damper, flashing, and/or chase cover.

Now, if the chimney has severe structural issues, such as large cracks, a leaning structure, extensive water damage, or an irreparably damaged liner, a partial or full rebuild may be necessary. In such cases, rebuilding from the roofline up or reconstructing the entire chimney will guarantee the most reliable, long-term results, ensuring that the system can function as safely and efficiently as possible.

Ultimately, the right approach depends on the chimney’s current condition, and a professional evaluation is the best way to determine the necessary repairs.

What Are the Three Levels of Chimney Inspections? Which One Do I Need?

The three levels of chimney inspections are defined by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to ensure the safety and efficiency of your chimney and fireplace system. Every fireplace and chimney owner should invest in one inspection per year, but which you need varies depending on your situation and the state of your heating appliance.

original square graphic with rounded corners. The top left section has a white speech bubble labeled "QUESTION" with the text "What level of chimney inspection do I need - 1, 2, or 3?". The top right has a black house icon. The bottom section has a white speech bubble labeled "ANSWER" with bullet points detailing Level 1, 2, and 3 chimney inspections. A silhouette of a chimney sweep is on the left side.

Level 1 Chimney Inspection: If you use your chimney normally, there are no known issues or damage, and you haven’t made any changes to your system in the last year, this should suffice. It includes a visual check of accessible parts of the chimney, flue, and fireplace, ensuring the chimney is sound and properly functioning.
Level 2 Chimney Inspection: This level is more exhaustive and includes video scan of the chimney interior to check for hidden damage, as well as an examination of attic, crawl spaces, and accessible areas around the chimney. Schedule one of these if you’re buying/selling property, after a chimney fire or severe weather event, or if you’ve recently made major changes to your fireplace.
Level 3 Chimney Inspection: If a level 1 or 2 inspection reveals serious hazards that need further investigation, a level 3 inspection is warranted. These include the potential removal of walls, chimney crown, or other components to inspect hidden areas.

For Chimney Rebuilds & More Near You, Trust Us

When it comes to chimney rebuilds and inspections near Haddonfield, NJ, Mason’s Chimney Service is the name you can trust. With years of experience, top-quality craftsmanship, and a commitment to safety, we ensure your chimney is in excellent condition – and stays that way for years to come.