Chimney repair questions and answers
Straight answers to what homeowners ask most about inspections, repairs and working with us.
Inspections and upkeep
How often should a chimney be inspected?
Once a year. That is the interval in the National Fire Protection Association standard for chimneys, and it applies whether the chimney serves a fireplace, a stove, a furnace or a boiler.
What are the three levels of chimney inspection?
A Level 1 inspection covers the parts that can be reached and seen without tools. A Level 2 adds a camera run through the flue and a check of the attic, crawl space and other accessible areas. A Level 3 involves opening up part of the building or chimney to reach a hidden problem. A Level 1 inspection is $69.
What wears a chimney out?
Water does most of the damage. It gets into mortar joints, brick and the crown, then freezes and expands. Acidic moisture from flue gases works on the liner from the inside at the same time.
Does a chimney need a cap?
A cap keeps rain, animals and debris out of the flue, and its mesh stops sparks leaving it. An uncapped flue takes water straight down to the firebox, damper and liner.
Repairs
How long does a chimney repair take?
It depends on the repair. Sealing a crown or resetting a run of flashing is often finished in a day. Repointing depends on how much of the chimney needs it, and a rebuild from the roofline up usually runs to several days. Masonry work also needs dry weather above freezing.
Can I use the fireplace while I wait for a repair?
That depends on which part is damaged. A cracked or open flue liner or a loose stack means the fireplace or appliance should not be used until it is fixed. Wear on the outside brick or crown is usually less urgent. An inspection tells you which case you have.
Should a chimney be waterproofed?
A breathable water repellent helps on brick that is sound and already repaired. It is not a substitute for fixing open joints, a cracked crown or failed flashing, and a sealer that forms a film traps moisture in the brick.
Do I need a permit for chimney repair?
Routine repairs such as repointing, crown work and flashing usually do not need one. Structural work such as a rebuild can. The building department for your village or town makes that decision, so it is worth a call before work starts.
Does homeowners insurance cover chimney repair?
Policies generally cover sudden damage, such as a chimney fire, a lightning strike or a fallen tree. They generally do not cover gradual wear. Your own policy and insurer have the final word.
Working with us
Where do you work?
We are based in Spring Valley and cover the surrounding Rockland County communities listed on the service areas page.
How do I get an estimate?
Call (845) 671-3798 or use the form on the contact page. We are open 7am to 7pm, seven days. Repairs are scoped from an inspection, so that is the first step.
Which repairs do you do?
Leaks, masonry, crowns, liners, flashing and full or partial rebuilds. Each one is described on the services page.
Is the company insured?
Yes. Chimney Sweep Ramapo is insured. It has been family owned since Joseph Prosperie founded it in 1986.