Have a Historical Fireplace in Bethlehem? Call Northeastern Masonry & Chimney for Your Chimney Maintenance Needs!
For over 35 years, we have proudly provided comprehensive chimney services and built lasting relationships with clients throughout our broad service area. This area extends from Glen Falls in the north to Poughkeepsie in the south, and from Albany in the west to Greenfield in the east.
Homeowners and business owners in Bethlehem have long been valued neighbors to Northeastern Masonry & Chimney. From annual chimney inspections to full renovations on historic chimneys, we have provided a wide range of chimney care services to Bethlehem residents over the years. We continue to make service calls there regularly.
If you have a chimney problem or simply need a trusted company for your annual maintenance, please call Northeastern Masonry & Chimney at (518) 255-7273. We would be delighted to earn your loyalty!
From History to the Future
If you’re a history buff or simply enjoy learning more about the past, Bethlehem is a particularly great place to be, thanks in part to the work of the Bethlehem Historical Association. The Association itself is housed in a piece of Bethlehem history: a schoolhouse dating back to the 1800s. This schoolhouse now serves as a museum, showcasing tools and other artifacts that offer a glimpse into life and work during the early days of settlement along the Hudson River.
As chimney professionals, studying history is a crucial part of our work. The expert technicians at Northeastern Masonry & Chimney are trained and certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). This training includes extensive studies in the history of masonry work and its development. To effectively repair, restore, or renovate a historic chimney or fireplace, it’s essential to understand how they were originally constructed, considering materials, tools, and building practices.
This comprehensive training enables our technicians to provide expert care for the historic chimney and fireplace systems of Bethlehem homeowners and business owners, from regular maintenance to full restoration projects.
Understanding the history of our industry is crucial for moving forward. We also dedicate significant energy to staying abreast of the latest developments, technologies, tools, and codes. This commitment ensures that we not only provide the best service and workmanship for our clients but also offer informed recommendations.
What Are the Most Common Issues With Historic Chimneys?
Historic chimneys add character and charm to older homes, but they often come with their own special set of challenges that complicates standard chimney maintenance and care. Some of the most common issues include:
- Crumbling mortar and bricks. Older chimneys are more prone to damage from time, weather, and moisture, leading to weakened masonry.
- Inefficient or deteriorated liners. Many historic chimneys were built without liners or have outdated ones that no longer meet modern safety standards.
- Water damage. Due to years of exposure to the elements, historic chimneys often have cracks or leaks that allow water to seep in, causing further deterioration.
- Structural instability. Shifting foundations or decades of use can cause a chimney to lean or develop unsafe structural problems.
- Creosote buildup. Historic chimneys that haven’t been properly maintained may have significant creosote deposits, increasing the risk of fire.
Restoring a historic chimney requires specialized expertise to address these issues without compromising the architectural integrity of the home.
-Stephen R.
★★★★★
Can Tuckpointing Restore the Appearance of a Historic Chimney?
Tuckpointing is one of the most effective ways to restore and preserve the appearance of a historic chimney. This process involves removing damaged or deteriorated mortar joints and replacing them with fresh mortar that matches the original color and composition. Tuckpointing not only improves the aesthetic appeal of the chimney but also strengthens its structure and protects it from further damage.
For historic chimneys, tuckpointing can help maintain the architectural integrity of the home, blending seamlessly with the original design while providing much-needed durability. This service is particularly beneficial for chimneys that have experienced years of weathering, as it helps prevent water from penetrating the masonry and causing additional issues.
Northeastern Masonry & Chimney Can Do It All
Northeastern Masonry & Chimney technicians can reline your 90-year old flue, but we can also walk you through your options if you’re looking for a new, modern and energy-efficient fireplace that offers all the latest advancements in consistent heating and environmental friendliness. Our goal has always been to provide expert work and unmatched service, and being a well-rounded company is part of our effort toward that goal. If you live or work in Bethlehem and need comprehensive, reliable chimney care, Northeastern Masonry & Chimney has you covered. Give us a call at (518) 255-7273 or click here to schedule your appointment!