Chimney Cleaning New Jersey is a dangerous job that should only be done by trained professionals. It involves climbing up and down ladders, reaching in the chimney to remove buildup and blockages, and inspecting for damages and other issues that could pose safety hazards. Several factors can impact the price of chimney cleaning, including whether an inspection is included and what type of equipment is needed to complete the job.

If a homeowner decides to opt for a video inspection of the chimney as well, they should expect the total cost of the service to increase by around $100 or more. This is because a camera is used to view inside the chimney, and it requires extra ladders and other gear to set up and operate. Some companies may also offer additional services like masonry repair or damper installation that can increase the overall cost as well.

A professional chimney sweep should be able to provide a clear breakdown of their services and estimated timeframe before beginning the work. It is important to choose a trustworthy company, as many scammers are out to take advantage of unknowing homeowners. Some of these scams involve claiming that the chimney needs a new liner. Liners are made of clay, concrete, or metal to contain and direct firewood upwards, and they can be very expensive to replace. Some scammers will even install liners that are the wrong size or only line part of the chimney, which can be extremely dangerous.

Regular chimney sweeping reduces wear and tear on the chimney by removing soot, creosote, ash, and other debris. It can also detect minor problems, such as cracked masonry or missing mortar, and allow homeowners to fix them before they become major issues. Chimney sweeping can prevent a chimney fire, which can cause structural damage and put homes and families at risk.

Chimneys should be inspected and cleaned at least once per year. An annual chimney inspection can spot damage and other issues that need repairs, while a routine chimney sweeping can prevent dangerous creosote buildup, keep the flue clean, and help the chimney operate efficiently.

A routine chimney sweeping typically costs between $255 and $355. Some factors that can influence the final price of the service include the size of the chimney, the age of the fireplace, and any other repairs that need to be completed. For example, older chimneys can often have cracks in the lining that require special repair methods. Moreover, chimneys with unusually shaped flues can be more difficult to clean and can be significantly more expensive than standard chimneys. Similarly, homeowners can often lower their chimney cleaning costs by maintaining a regular schedule of burning well-seasoned dry wood and keeping a few inches of ash at the bottom of the chimney to slow down creosote buildup. It is also a good idea to get an insurance policy that covers the cost of chimney repairs. This way, if a chimney problem does occur, homeowners will not be forced to pay for the repairs out of pocket.