Service area · Bergen County

Chimney Service in Wyckoff, NJ

Wyckoff has many stone houses dating to the eighteenth century, according to the township. If your home is one of them, or is a designated landmark, chimney work calls for some extra planning.

Living room with a stone fireplace and armchairs
On this page
  1. What is locally relevant in Wyckoff
  2. Stone chimneys on older houses
  3. Services Wyckoff homeowners often look for
  4. What to expect
  5. Water is the main enemy
  6. How to request service in Wyckoff
  7. Local questions
  8. Sources

What is locally relevant in Wyckoff

The township says it has more than 14 structures on the state and national historic registers, plus many stone houses dating back to the eighteenth century. Its Historic Preservation Commission prepares a survey of historic landmarks and advises the land use boards on applications involving historic properties.

According to the township, development activities that affect a historic landmark require application to and review by the commission. If a home is designated, the commission consults on exterior renovations. Interior renovations do not involve the commission.

Stone chimneys on older houses

Stone chimneys behave differently from brick. Joints are wider and irregular, the stone is often bedded in soft lime-based mortar, and many old stacks were never lined. Common issues we look for include:

  • mortar washing out of wide joints, letting water into the core of the stack;
  • a crown or cap that no longer sheds water;
  • flashing that does not follow uneven stone well;
  • an unlined or partly lined flue serving a modern appliance.

Repairs should match the existing stone and mortar as closely as practical. On a designated home, check with the township before changing how the chimney looks.

Services Wyckoff homeowners often look for

Read do chimney sealers work? before choosing a water repellent for older masonry.

What to expect

Every visit starts with an assessment. We use a camera when the flue allows and check the roof and attic when it is safe and accessible. You receive findings with photos before any repair is scheduled.

Water is the main enemy

Most masonry chimney damage starts with water. In winter, water that soaks into joints and stone freezes and expands, and over many seasons that loosens mortar and can push stones out of place. A crown that sheds water away from the stack, a cap that keeps rain out of the flue, and flashing that seals the roof joint do more to protect an old chimney than any coating. See why is my chimney leaking? for where water usually gets in.

How to request service in Wyckoff

Send a request through our Book Now page with your address, the appliance you use and what you have noticed. If the house is stone or a designated landmark, mention it. A team member contacts you to confirm a time; the request itself is not a confirmed appointment.

Our office hours are Sunday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM. We are closed on Saturday.

Local questions

Does Wyckoff's commission review chimney repairs?

According to the township, the commission consults on exterior renovations to designated homes. Interior renovations do not involve it. Ask the township whether your project needs review.

Can a stone chimney be lined?

Usually, yes. The right liner depends on the flue's size and shape and the appliance. An inspection shows the options.

Should I seal a stone chimney?

Not always. Some sealers trap moisture in older masonry. The right answer depends on the stone, the mortar and where water is getting in.

Tell us what you're seeing

Send a short description and a photo if you can. A team member will contact you to confirm a time.

Sources

  1. Township of Wyckoff: Did You Know Wyckoff Has a Historic Preservation Commission?
  2. Township of Wyckoff: Historic Preservation Commission