Pennsauken’s historic homes, many built before modern building codes, now face spring with chimneys that haven’t been serviced in years. Mitchel Van Chimney Inc is seeing a surge in older flues showing cracks, creosote buildup, and even partial collapses—issues that can’t wait until summer. We’re urging Pennsauken homeowners to book a full inspection now before the heat drives up demand and prices.
Why Pennsauken’s older chimneys need urgent attention this season
Many homes in Pennsauken’s older neighborhoods—like those near the 38th Street corridor or along the Delaware River—were built with brick flues designed for wood fires, not today’s gas inserts. Over decades, these chimneys develop hairline cracks in the mortar, allowing water to seep in and freeze, which widens the damage. My chimney has a wood-burning fireplace, but I’ve switched to gas—do I still need a sweep? Absolutely. Even gas systems produce moisture and soot that coat the flue, creating a hidden fire hazard. Our certified team uses high-resolution cameras to spot these issues before they become costly repairs. Don’t wait for a chimney fire to remind you—older systems in Pennsauken deserve a white-glove inspection now.
What Pennsauken homeowners should check before booking a sweep
Start by looking for these red flags: white, chalky stains on the exterior brick (efflorescence), a musty odor near the fireplace, or debris falling into the firebox. My flue feels drafty even when the damper is closed—why is that? In older Pennsauken homes, loose bricks or missing mortar can let downdrafts pull cold air into your living room, raising heating costs. Also, check the chimney cap: if it’s missing or rusted, birds and rain are already causing damage. Schedule your free estimate before summer peaks—our crews are booked solid by June. We’ll clean, inspect, and certify your system to meet Pennsauken’s local safety standards.