Chimney questions, answered

The National Fire Protection Association recommends a chimney inspection every year and a sweep whenever creosote reaches 1/8 inch. For most households that burn regularly, that means an annual cleaning — more often if you burn unseasoned wood or use the fireplace daily.

Creosote is a tar-like residue left behind when wood smoke cools inside the flue. It is highly flammable, and a thick buildup is the leading cause of chimney fires. Regular sweeping removes it before it can ignite.

A Level 1 inspection is the annual visual check of accessible areas. A Level 2 adds a video camera scan of the flue and is required when you buy or sell a home, change appliances, or after a chimney fire. A Level 3 is the most in-depth and may involve removing parts of the chimney when hidden damage is suspected.

Every location is open Monday through Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and closed on Sunday. Inspections and repairs are scheduled as appointments through the location nearest you.

Chimney leaks usually come from a cracked crown, a missing cap, failed flashing where the chimney meets the roof, or porous brick and mortar absorbing water. We trace the exact source, repair it, and can apply a breathable waterproofing treatment to prevent future leaks.

Yes. A cap keeps rain, birds, squirrels, and debris out of the flue and stops sparks from landing on your roof. It is one of the least expensive ways to protect your chimney from water damage and animal nests.

Pricing depends on the service and the condition of the chimney, so every job starts with a written estimate you approve before any work is scheduled. There are no surprise fees.

Damage from a sudden event such as a chimney fire, lightning strike, or storm is often covered, while wear and tear usually is not. We provide detailed inspection reports with photos that you can submit to your insurance company.

Flaking clay tile pieces in the firebox, a strong smoky odor, poor draft, or an inspection that shows cracked or missing tiles all point to a liner problem. A damaged liner lets heat and gases reach the framing of your home, so it should be addressed before the next burn season.

Smoke coming back into the room usually means poor draft. Common causes include a closed or stuck damper, a blocked or dirty flue, a flue that is the wrong size for the firebox, or negative pressure in the house. An inspection pinpoints the cause and the fix.

Yes. We sweep, inspect, and repair wood-burning fireplaces, gas fireplaces, wood stoves, inserts, and factory-built (prefab) units, including refractory panel replacement.

Spring and summer are ideal — schedules are more open, and any repairs are finished long before the first cold night. Fall is the busiest season at every location, so book early if you want a pre-winter sweep.

Yes. National Chimney Pros is fully licensed and insured, and our technicians are CSIA-trained. You can review our credentials on our License & Insurance page.

Yes. Every repair and installation carries a workmanship warranty, and the written quote you approve states exactly what is covered and for how long.

Book online using our appointment form, or call the location nearest you during business hours. The location confirms your preferred date and appointment window and sends a technician at the scheduled time.

We accept all major credit cards, debit, and other common payment methods. Your technician will confirm the total before completing any work.