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MD,DE,PA,NJ &VA's
Leading Chimney Sweeps and Services Company
Licensed, Bonded and Fully Insured
MHIC# 145477
CSIA CCS and CDET Certified
Who are we?
Welcome! Since starting this company in 2019 our mission has been to treat every customer like family. Today, every employee is trained to deliver the highest quality chimney and masonry work. We strive to be more than just your average contractor—we aim to be the personal chimney and masonry company you can trust and rely on for a lifetime.
Trustworthiness in a chimney company is paramount. Customers cannot easily see the recommended chimney work, so at The Duke's Chimney Sweeps & Services, we treat our customers the way we like to be treated. We are incredibly grateful for the trust our customers have placed in us over the years, which has driven our growth through word-of-mouth recommendations.
Despite minimal advertising, our loyal customer base has helped The Duke's Chimney Sweeps & Services grow. We hope you'll give us a chance to be your trusted chimney company. We are committed to working hard to keep you happy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need to have my chimney cleaned?
When wood or other combustible solid fuels are burned in a chimney, a tar-like residue called creosote is produced as a byproduct of incomplete combustion. Over time, creosote can accumulate along the inner walls of the chimney, creating a potential fire hazard. Regular cleanings are essential to safeguard against the risk of a chimney fire, which could spread to the rest of your home. Ensuring your chimney is cleaned regularly will help maintain a safe and efficient fireplace.
How often should I have my chimney swept?
The standard recommendation, according to the National Fire Protection Association, is to have your chimney swept at least once a year. Annual sweeping ensures that the inner walls of the chimney are cleaned and any debris, such as leaves, branches, or even animals, that may have fallen into the flue is removed promptly. Even if the chimney hasn't been used since its last inspection or cleaning, it's still advisable to schedule a cleaning to check for blockages that could impede proper ventilation. The busiest time for chimney servicing companies is from September to December, so the best times to schedule a routine sweep, inspection, or any other service are in the summer, spring, or late winter.
What is a chimney cap and why do I need one?
A chimney cap is a concrete and metal covering placed on top of a chimney to allow smoke and gases to escape while preventing leaves, branches, animals, and rainwater from entering. Without prompt removal, these objects can become catalysts for chimney fires. Chimney caps are also essential for prolonging the life of a chimney. Most structural damage to chimneys is caused by rainwater seeping into the cracks and crevices of the masonry. When this water freezes, it expands the settled area, creating larger gaps upon melting. Over a winter, this freeze-thaw cycle can occur multiple times, significantly compromising the masonry's structural integrity.
What is a chimney liner?
A chimney liner is a flexible metal tube designed to protect the inner walls of a chimney from creosote residue. Once installed, a new liner typically lasts about 30 years. While regular cleaning and inspections are still necessary, a chimney liner significantly reduces future costs associated with chimney repairs and maintenance. Additionally, it helps lower the risk of chimney fires.
I just bought a chimney sweeping log. Doesn't that make you obsolete?
Not at all. Chimney sweeping logs can help loosen creosote from the inner walls of a chimney, but they do not replace a thorough mechanical cleaning with a wire brush. When burned, a chimney sweep log releases chemicals that loosen creosote buildup over about two weeks. This method is particularly effective for removing level 3 creosote, which is a thick, rubbery buildup. While the sweeping logs can loosen this creosote, causing it to flake off, the loosened creosote will accumulate on the smoke shelf and still pose a fire hazard. Ultimately, a certified technician is needed to remove the remaining creosote and check for any other potential chimney problems.