F.A.Q.’S

What does a chimney inspection consist of and do I need one?

An annual chimney inspection is required by the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA). A chimney inspection consists of a visual examination of the entire chimney to determine if there are any hazards to be concerned about. Concerns would consist of; deteriorated mortar joints, missing bricks and cracks in the crown. The firebox area, including the damper and smoke chamber will also be inspected. Your chimney flue inspection is included as well, to ensure it is in good, working condition. The NFPA requires inspections when replacing heating appliances and/or at the time of property transfer.

How often should I clean my chimney?

Every chimney is exposed to extreme weather conditions; heat, rain, snow, strong winds and at time may experience lightning strikes. An annual chimney inspection should be part of a homeowner’s routine maintenance plan. Many homeowners schedule a chimney cleaning depending upon the amount of wood they burn in their fireplace or woodstove. A general rule of thumb for woodburning fireplaces and stoves is after every cord of seasoned wood that is burned. For those that do not use their fireplace as often as mentioned, should not go without an annual chimney inspection. During a mild winter, smokier fires and creosote buildup is often heavier.

If you are a homeowner with an oil furnace, don’t forget – you should also have this chimney cleaned annually, as your oil furnace is being used continuously throughout colder months.

When is the best time to clean my chimney?

After the heating season is over, Spring is the best time to schedule a chimney inspection and cleaning. An inspection will help determine if there are repairs needed and removing the creosote from the winter season will ensure your chimney is clean, preventing deterioration of the chimney flue from the inside out. Here at 5 Star Chimney Services, we have extended hours during the spring-summer season and often times, scheduling earlier in the year will give enough time to make repairs before the next heating season.

Contact Us for availability and scheduling.

Home much will it cost to clean my chimney?

Pricing varies depending on the type of appliance we are sweeping and if there are any blockages that need to be cleared. Your chimney cleaning includes a basic visual inspection performed by our highly qualified technicians. 5 Star Chimney Services technicians will go over any concerning findings with you and will answer any questions you may have. When you give us a call, one of our office managers will ask you a few questions to determine your specific needs and will be able to give you a quote over the phone.

Do you provide free estimates?

Yes, we do! Please keep in mind when requesting an estimate, this is not the same as an inspection. If you are aware, for example, that you need a new liner or your chimney repointed, we can give you a free estimate on the cost of these needs. If you believe there is an issue with your chimney but you are unsure as to what the issue is, one of our office managers will then need to set up an inspection to find the issue.

We charge for chimney inspections because they are more detailed and take more time to complete. Contact Us today to go over your concerns and set up an appointment.

Will I need to worry about a mess to clean up after my chimney is cleaned?

Absolutely not. 5 Star Chimney Services technicians will lay down drop cloths and use a high powered HEPA vacuum at the base of the chimney to catch any and all dust and debris from entering your home.

Do I need a chimney cap?

Yes – every home should have a cap on their chimney. Caps are there to work for you. When you are not using your chimney, the chimney cap is still doing its job – preventing the elements, animals and debris from entering your chimney.

Do you provide financing or payment plans?

We request a deposit on all larger jobs when scheduling. We then require the balance to be paid in full on the completion date.

5 Star Chimney has partnered with  Synchrony Financing. Our technicians can complete the application process with you in person or you can visit our financing page to learn more about  Synchrony Financing and complete the application online. Synchrony Financing offers a few plans to make financing your home improvement project an easier process for you. Answers are usually given within minutes. We ask that the application process is completed prior to scheduling. If financing is not approved and we are in the middle of your job, you will be required to provide payment in full at the time of completion.