Let’s face it: our winters here in the Northeast have no shortage of freezing and thawing cycles, snow-covered rooftops, and resulting damage to chimneys. In spite of Mother Nature’s annual winter barrage, many people continue to overlook the need for chimney system...
Imagine drawing up plans for your dream house, complete with a classy and functional fireplace and chimney. Or you spot a house you would love to buy, with the same features. Perfect, right? Maybe not. What about the chimney system? Is it positioned properly? Is in...
Sometimes the signs of a chimney fire are dramatic and obvious. Other times, the signs are more subtle, perhaps nearly invisible and hidden. Northeastern Masonry & Chimney wants to share with you tips for ascertaining if you are experiencing (or have experienced)...
A damper is a gatekeeper. It’s like a tollbooth, controlling the flow of “traffic” — in this case air — in and out of your chimney. Like a tollbooth, a damper can cost you money, or save you money (like using EZ Pass). Unbeknownst to you, a dislodged damper may be...
Ever notice that residents can always spell the name of the place where they live, even if the name is tricky? It’s true. Even for bad spellers. “Poughkeepsie” is no exception. You’ll likely find that the locals know how to spell Poughkeepsie. It goes with the...
Combustion is comprised of three ingredients: heat, fuel, and oxygen. Efficient combustion leads to better fires in your fireplace and less creosote in the chimney. Northeastern Masonry & Chimney can answer all your questions about combustion and what it means for...
We’ve all heard horror stories of a do-it-yourself project gone awry. An attempt to save time and money ends up doing neither. A DIY homeowner uses the wrong type of paint. Someone slips off a ladder. You get the picture. Your yearly chimney sweeping presents similar...
The thermometer reads 91 degrees. Ice, sleet and snow are rude and distant memories. Perhaps a few words from last year’s chimney inspection nag at the back of your mind: “You don’t have any leaks yet, but keep an eye on those cracks in your crown.” Chimney crown...
Vines look whimsical and quaint as they climb up the sides of the walls and chimney. They add a texture of natural wonder to the landscape, as they seem to magically weave onto the home. However, maintenance of these plants as they grow on your chimney is no fairy...
