Home / Chimney Academy / Chimneys in Older New Jersey Homes
Chimneys in Older New Jersey Homes
A chimney in an older house was built to different standards than a new one. That does not make it unsafe, but it is a good reason to have it inspected and to know what an inspector looks for.
Why age matters
Chimneys are built to the standards of their time, and materials wear. CSIA notes that masonry chimneys may be older and unlined, or lined with tile to meet current safety codes. We are not making claims about the housing stock of any particular town. This guide covers what applies to an older chimney wherever it is.
Common issues in older chimneys
| Issue | What it means | Where to read more |
|---|---|---|
| No flue liner, or a deteriorated one | CSIA notes that heat and corrosive exhaust can damage clay liners, and flaking pieces can block the flue | Clay vs stainless liners |
| Years of creosote and soot | A chimney that has not been swept in decades can have heavy buildup, including stubborn glazed creosote | Creosote buildup |
| Rough or stepped smoke chamber | A smoke chamber may hold buildup and need attention | Smoke chamber repair |
| Worn mortar and brick | Defective joints can be repointed; brick can deteriorate | Spalling and freeze damage |
| Weathered crown, cap and flashing | Water entry at the top and roofline | Crown vs cap vs chase cover |
Unlined flues and new appliances
CSIA states that a masonry chimney without a liner requires one for any new appliance, regardless of fuel. A new furnace or water heater vented through a flue built for an older unit can also run into problems, and the exhaust from newer high-efficiency gas units is more corrosive to older flues. If you plan to add or change an appliance, have the chimney checked first. See gas vs wood fireplace venting basics.
Is it safe to use?
CSIA’s inspection guidance says a Level 1 inspection assumes nothing is changing, and recommends a Level 2 if how the fireplace is used will change. A home purchase, a new appliance or a past fire also point to a closer look; see inspection levels 1, 2 and 3 and chimney inspection when buying or selling. CSIA also points out that a Level 2 inspection requires video scanning of the flue interior, which is how problems that cannot be seen from the firebox are found. See chimney camera inspection.
If an older fireplace has sat unused for a long time, read using a fireplace again after long disuse before lighting it.
What to expect from a visit
For an older chimney we look at the firebox, damper, smoke chamber, flue (with a camera when needed), crown, cap and flashing, then explain what we find and what is repair, maintenance or monitoring. We can also provide a report with photos on request. See chimney inspection and chimney liners. Our Jersey City project is an example where a Level 2 inspection led to a new liner and crown repair.
Frequently asked questions
My house is very old. Should I stop using the fireplace?
Not necessarily, but do not light it until it has been inspected if you do not know its condition or when it was last cleaned.
Does an older chimney always need a new liner?
No. It depends on what is there and how it is used. An inspection answers this.
Is repointing enough for old brick?
Where only the joints are defective, yes, repointing may be enough. Brick guidance recommends replacing only defective joints and using mortar no stronger than the original. See chimney masonry repointing.
Next step
Request a visit or call (862) 225-6529. Tell us roughly how old the house is and when the chimney was last cleaned.
Sources
- CSIA, preventing chimney fires (masonry chimneys may be older and unlined, or tile-lined)
- CSIA FAQ (older chimneys not swept for decades; heavy creosote; stepped smoke chamber; newer furnaces in old flues)
- CSIA, inspection before installing a new hearth appliance (an unlined masonry chimney requires a liner for any new appliance)
- CSIA, avoiding carbon monoxide hazards (corrosive exhaust from high-efficiency gas furnaces)
- CSIA, Level 2 inspection (video scanning of the flue)
- CSIA, Level 1 inspection (assumes nothing is changing)
- Brick Industry Association, repointing brick masonry (repoint only defective joints; mortar no stronger than original)