We’re proud to be your local chimney service provider for inspections, cleaning, and repairs in Westgate, NY and communities throughout the Greater Rochester Metropolitan Area.
Annual Chimney Inspection
Have you had your annual chimney inspection yet? According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and fire safety experts, chimneys should be inspected annually and cleaned when necessary – even if you’re no longer using the fireplace or stove. Whether your chimney is a year old or 100, the brick and mortar are porous materials susceptible to water damage. Moisture can cause the masonry to crack, chip, and crumble, resulting in extensive repairs or partial or complete chimney rebuilding. Also, other components, such as the flashing, flue liner, smoke chamber, and damper, must be checked periodically. Our professional sweeps will ensure your chimney, vents, and attached heating appliances are not a fire or health hazard.
Westgate, NY Chimney Sweep & Cleaning
Many homes in Westgate enjoy the stunning flames of a wood-burning fireplace or heating stove to keep their living space warm and cozy on those chilly days. Since flammable creosote and soot deposits build up in the chimney with every burn, having a professional sweep to clean the chimney once a year significantly reduces the risk of fire and exposure to poisonous carbon monoxide gas. We also clear out any live animals or nests in the flue, remove obstructions, and remove corrosive residue adhering to the firebrick, flue liner, and other areas of the chimney and flue.
Chimney Repairs
Maintaining annual chimney inspections is the best way to minimize repairs and prolong the life of your chimney, fireplace, inserts, and stoves. So, how do you know when your chimney needs repair? Well, here are a few things to watch for:
- Efflorescence: White stains on the masonry surface. They usually appear in the spring or summer, often the first sign that bricks and mortar absorb moisture.
- Rusting: Anytime you see rust dripping down the side of the chimney, usually from a damaged chimney cap or chase top, it is a sign that it’s time for a replacement.
- Cracked, crumbling, or missing bricks and mortar: Water is damaging the masonry. It may also be leaking inside the chimney.
- Damaged or missing chimney cap: Water will leak inside the fireplace without immediate repair or replacement. It can also weaken the flue liner, requiring premature replacement.
- Water stains on the ceiling: Moisture staining on the walls or ceiling near the fireplace or stove is often a sign of a chimney leak. It is usually due to damaged, worn, or improperly installed flashing.
Chimney Rebuilding & Masonry
It is common to see beautiful chimneys peaking atop homes in downtown Westgate and surrounding subdivisions. However, many old and new homes have vents that require masonry repair or even partial or complete rebuilding. At Felgemacher Masonry & Chimney, our talented masons and chimney technicians can repair or rebuild your chimney to its original glory. All work is performed according to industry standards and in compliance with local building and fire safety codes.
Chimney Liners
Our technicians see a lot of terra cotta chimney liners in the Greater Rochester area. It is perhaps the most common due to its inexpensive cost and longevity. However, our wet and cold winters, followed by hot and humid summers, accelerate its wear and tear, requiring frequent repairs or early replacement. Since a flue liner is essential for fire prevention and to keep carbon monoxide fumes from leaking into your living space, we recommend relining the chimney with a UL-Listed stainless-steel liner. It will increase your heating efficiency, lower energy costs, and reduce soot deposit build-up.
New Fireplaces, Inserts, and Stoves – Sales & Installation
When you’re ready for a new fireplace insert, or stove, contact Felgemacher. We’ll bring our “showroom” on wheels right to your door to see the fantastic selection of energy-efficient heating appliances that meet your lifestyle and budget while providing an incredible fire-burning experience your family and friends will enjoy.
Chimney Sweep Services in Westgate, NY
Residents in Fairport NY, Greece NY, Pittsford NY, Webster NY, Irondequoit NY, and surrounding communities can call Felgemacher Masonry & Chimney’s professional chimney sweep services when they need safe, reliable, and accurate chimney inspections, cleanings, repairs. We sell and install new fireplace inserts, gas logs and stoves too!
Contact us today by phone at 585-308-4914 to schedule an appointment with a chimney professional.
