Tips For Selecting Chimney Repair Companies

You should always get multiple bids for your chimney cleaning, repairs and restoration. However, letting price be the only factor could end up costing you in the long run.

Look for companies that have high safety and quality standards. They should also be members of a reputable organization like the CSIA.

Check Their Reputation

When it comes to chimneys, fireplaces and their associated repairs, you want a professional with the right credentials. Search for local professionals who are certified by a reputable organization and backed by a company that cares about the success of its work.

A chimney that isn’t structurally sound could collapse, causing expensive and dangerous damage to your home. Look for cracks and deterioration of the masonry and mortar joints. A sagging chimney can also pose structural problems. If the chimney stack is leaning more than a few degrees, you may need to have it rebuilt or replaced.

It’s natural to want to hire the cheapest company, but letting that guide your decision could lead to costly problems down the road. Some sweeps/repair companies have been known to give a low bid, then present their customers with a list of add-on services and products that raise the price significantly. Look for a company that is upfront about its pricing and explains the reasons behind it.

Read Reviews

When it comes to chimneys, a little knowledge can go a long way. Knowing what questions to ask and where to look will help you select the best chimney repair company for your needs. Read reviews of companies on reputable home improvement sites and check them out on the Better Business Bureau website to see if they have unresolved complaints.

Bricks missing or loose from the chimney structure are signs of deterioration that should be addressed immediately. Missing mortar joints or a change in the color of the mortar are also indicators of problems with the structure. A pronounced leaning of the chimney stack may indicate that there is structural damage and it is time to replace the chimney.

Check if the chimney repair company has a current license and insurance to work in your area. This information should be displayed on their website along with any certifications and associations they belong to. Also, ask about their workers’ compensation and liability insurance coverage.

Check Their Website

When it comes to getting quotes for chimney repairs, chimney sweep services and chimney inspections, be careful not to base your decision on price alone. The cheapest company may not be the best choice for you and could end up costing you more in the long run.

During an estimate, make sure that the company is upfront about the costs of their work. They should also be able to explain the specific areas that need attention and why those are necessary, whether it is a leaky chimney, damage from weather elements or brick replacement or rebuilding.

Chimneys are exposed to moisture all year round, causing things like spalling (when water seeps into and between the bricks and causes them to crack), rusting and structural damage that needs to be repaired right away. If the damage is severe enough, it might be more economical for you to replace your chimney rather than repair it.

Ask for a Quote

Getting an estimate on chimney repair from multiple companies is the only way to determine what you should pay for work. If you get an estimate that is drastically different from the others, it’s important to ask why.

A good chimney service will provide a detailed description of the work they will perform and the reasons behind their pricing. They will also be able to answer any questions you may have.

Your chimney is constantly exposed to weather elements. Water damage is a major concern. When water reaches the chimney bricks and goes through a freeze-and-thaw cycle, it can cause spalling. This causes the brick faces to crack, deteriorate, and fall off.

Another thing to look for in a quote is any hidden fees. A reputable chimney repair company will always be upfront about what they will charge for services and will include a written contract before starting any work. You should also verify that they are licensed and insured.