Philadelphia Chimney Sweep, Repair & Maintenance Experts: D.J. Cross

• Radnor (19087)
• Rittenhouse Square (19103)
• Rosemont (19010)
• Rose Valley (19063, 19086)
• Swarthmore (19081)
• Villanova (19085)
• Wallingford (19086)
• Wayne (19087)
• West Chester (19380, 19381, 19382, 19383)
• Wynnewood (19096)

We Offer a Wide Range of Expert Fireplace & Chimney Services

We’ve earned a reputation as being the chimney experts for exceptionally challenging restoration work over the last 40+ years, but that’s not all we do. D.J. Cross is a full service chimney maintenance and repair company, meaning that you can trust us for all your chimney needs. We’re proud to provide the following high-quality, professional services:

Why Is Preventative Maintenance So Important for Chimneys & Fireplaces?

Maintaining your chimney is crucial for both the structure itself and the health and safety of your home and family. It’s sometimes easy to forget that fireplaces and their chimneys are designed to handle a living fire inside your home, which means that they encounter a lot of dangerous elements like intense heat, harmful fumes, and particulate matter.

Establishing a regular preventive maintenance schedule for your hearth provides several benefits:

• Efficiency and Performance: A well-maintained appliance that meets industry standards is safer and more efficient. Plain and simple. Regular inspections and sweepings ensure your chimney looks good on the outside and functions optimally on the inside.
• Fire Safety: No matter what type of fuel you burn, all combustion produces byproducts that can cause dangers if they build up in your chimney. Creosote, a naturally occurring and highly flammable substance, can cling to the chimney walls and create a significant fire risk if not routinely removed at least once a year.
• Reduced Carbon Monoxide Risk: Creosote deposits and other material buildup inside your flue can lead to carbon monoxide exposure. Blockages make it harder for the appliance to vent properly, causing dangerous fumes to draft back into your living space.
• Structural Integrity and Longevity: Regular, annual care for your chimney and fireplace preserves their structural integrity and extends their lifespan, allowing you to enjoy them for many years.
• Insurance Compliance: Did you know that most chimney damage is actually preventable? This means that proof of annual maintenance services like cleanings and inspections is often required for insurance coverage. Without this documentation, you may wind up responsible for any necessary repair services.

Your fireplace and chimney system is an appliance like all the rest you regularly use in your home. In order for it to serve its purpose, you have to take care of it. Fortunately, that’s what we’re here for: to make the whole maintenance process as painless and straightforward as possible.

D.J. Cross is your local expert on all things fireplace and chimney. Schedule your appointment today by contacting us online or calling 610-494-6055.

• After Severe Weather Conditions: Philadelphia is known for its unpredictable weather, including heavy snow, ice storms, high winds, and thunderstorms. These conditions can damage your chimney’s masonry, flashing, or cap, leading to leaks or structural issues. After any severe weather event, it’s wise to have your chimney inspected to check for damage that could compromise its safety and function.
• If You Notice Signs of Damage: Visible signs of chimney damage – such as crumbling mortar, cracked or missing bricks, rusted dampers, or a leaning chimney – are clear indicators that you need an immediate inspection. Additionally, if you notice water stains on walls near your chimney, unpleasant odors, smoke not venting properly, or an increase in soot or creosote buildup, you should schedule an inspection promptly to identify and address potential issues.
• After a Chimney Fire: Chimney fires, even those that seem small or go unnoticed, can cause significant internal damage to your chimney flue or liner. If you suspect a chimney fire, or if your chimney has not been inspected since a suspected event, it is critical to schedule a Level 2 or Level 3 inspection to thoroughly assess the damage and ensure your home remains safe from fire hazards.
• When Buying or Selling a Home: Real estate transactions often require a detailed chimney inspection. If you are buying a home, an inspection provides peace of mind that the chimney is in good condition and free of hidden problems. If selling, a clean bill of health for your chimney can be a valuable selling point and prevent last-minute negotiations or repairs.
• Before Installing a New Fireplace or Stove: If you are considering installing a new wood-burning stove, gas fireplace, or converting an existing fireplace to a different fuel type, it is essential to have a professional inspection. This ensures that your chimney can handle the new appliance’s requirements, such as proper venting, adequate draft, and structural integrity.
• If Your Chimney Has Not Been Inspected in Over a Year: Even if you haven’t noticed any visible damage or haven’t used your fireplace recently, an annual inspection is crucial. Birds, small animals, and debris can block your flue over time, and even a seemingly minor issue like a loose brick can develop into a significant safety hazard if left unchecked.

Regular chimney inspections help Philadelphia homeowners and business owners prevent potential fire hazards, improve indoor air quality, and maintain the value of their property. At D.J. Cross, our team of certified chimney experts provides thorough inspections tailored to the unique conditions of the Philadelphia area, helping ensure your home stays safe and warm throughout the year.