Chimney & Fireplace FAQs for Homeowners in Southwest PA
Get clear answers to the most common chimney and fireplace questions—straight from local experts in Pittsburgh, North Hills, South Hills & Washington County.
Chimney Inspection FAQs
1. How often should I schedule a chimney inspection in southwest PA?
You should have your chimney inspected at least once a year—regardless of how often you use your fireplace. Annual inspections help catch creosote buildup, flue damage, moisture intrusion, or animal nests before they turn into serious safety issues. At Piccadilly Chimney, we serve homeowners in Pittsburgh, North Hills, South Hills, and Washington County with certified, code-compliant inspections that put your safety first.
2. What’s included in a chimney inspection from Piccadilly Chimney?
Every inspection includes a full evaluation of your chimney system—from the cap and crown to the firebox and flue. Our technicians use internal video scopes to check for hidden issues like cracked liners, blockages, or structural damage, and we take photos as needed for documentation. You’ll receive a clear, honest report that outlines the condition of your system and any recommended next steps.
3. What are the signs I need a chimney inspection right away?
If you notice smoke backing into your home, strong odors coming from the fireplace, strange noises in the chimney, or visible damage to the exterior structure, it’s time to schedule an inspection. These issues could point to serious problems like blockages, animal activity, moisture damage, or deteriorating flue components. Our team will assess the situation quickly and help restore your peace of mind.
4. Can I use my fireplace if I haven’t had it inspected recently?
It’s not recommended. Using an uninspected fireplace—especially one that hasn’t been checked in over a year—can put your home and family at risk. Hidden creosote buildup, flue cracks, or drafting issues can lead to chimney fires or carbon monoxide exposure. We recommend scheduling an inspection before the heating season begins to ensure everything is clean, safe, and working as it should.
5. How long does a chimney inspection take?
Most inspections take 60–90 minutes depending on your system’s complexity and condition. Our certified technicians arrive on time, use drop cloths and HEPA vacuums to keep your home clean, and walk you through their findings at the end. Whether your chimney is masonry or prefab, we make the process easy, informative, and hassle-free.
Chimney Cleaning FAQs
1. How do I know if my chimney needs to be cleaned?
Common signs include strong odors, poor draft, visible soot around the fireplace, or a fireplace that hasn’t been cleaned in over a year. Even if everything appears normal, creosote buildup can still be present—and that’s one of the leading causes of chimney fires. At Piccadilly Chimney, we recommend scheduling an annual cleaning to keep your system safe, efficient, and up to code.
2. What does a chimney cleaning from Piccadilly Chimney include?
Our certified technicians perform a full sweep of the flue system using industry-standard rods, brushes, and vacuums. We remove soot, creosote, ash, and any debris or animal nests inside the flue. We also seal off the fireplace to protect your home, use HEPA filtration to control dust, and provide a quick inspection to ensure there are no obvious issues with your chimney structure or components.
3. How long does a chimney cleaning take?
Most cleanings take 45–60 minutes, depending on the size and condition of your chimney. If your system hasn’t been serviced in a while, or if we discover heavy creosote buildup, the appointment may take longer. Our goal is to get the job done thoroughly and safely—without rushing or cutting corners.
4. Can I clean my chimney myself?
We strongly recommend leaving it to the pros. DIY chimney cleaning might seem simple, but without the right tools and training, it’s easy to miss hidden creosote, cause damage, or create a mess in your home. Our technicians use specialized equipment and proven methods to clean your chimney thoroughly—and we know how to spot early warning signs of bigger issues.
5. How often should I clean my chimney in the southwest PA climate?
Most chimneys should be cleaned at least once a year—but if you burn wood frequently during the winter, you may need a second cleaning mid-season. The cold, damp climate in Pittsburgh, North Hills, South Hills, and Washington County can accelerate creosote buildup and increase moisture-related damage. Annual cleanings from Piccadilly Chimney keep your system working safely and efficiently year after year.
Chimney Relining & Repair FAQs
1. What is chimney relining, and why would I need it?
Chimney relining involves installing a new liner inside your flue to ensure safe venting of smoke, gases, and heat. You might need it if your existing liner is cracked, missing, damaged by moisture, or simply not up to current safety codes. At Piccadilly Chimney, we install stainless steel liners that restore safety, improve performance, and extend the life of your chimney system—especially for older masonry setups that are common in Pittsburgh, North Hills, South Hills, and Washington County.
2. What are the signs that my chimney needs to be repaired?
Some of the most common signs include crumbling brick or mortar, water leaks, smoky odors, rusted components, or visible cracks around the crown or flue. If you hear rattling noises, feel a draft when the fireplace isn’t in use, or notice staining on the walls near your chimney, it’s time to call in a professional. Our certified techs will inspect your chimney and recommend honest, practical repairs based on your specific situation.
3. Can a damaged chimney liner be dangerous?
Yes—damaged or missing liners can allow heat, smoke, and carbon monoxide to escape into your home instead of safely venting outside. This poses a serious fire hazard and health risk. That’s why relining is one of the most important repairs we perform. A properly installed liner brings your chimney up to code, improves draft, and protects your home from long-term structural damage.
4. What kinds of chimney repairs do you offer?
We offer a full range of masonry and structural repairs, including crown repair, chimney cap replacement, damper repair, and brick repointing. Whether your chimney needs a full reline or just a simple fix, we’ll walk you through the options and prioritize repairs based on urgency and budget. Our work is code-compliant, long-lasting, and backed by decades of experience serving homes throughout the greater Pittsburgh area.
5. How long does chimney relining take?
Most chimney relining jobs are completed in just one day. Larger or more complex systems may require additional time, especially if masonry repairs are needed beforehand. Once we inspect your chimney and determine the scope, we’ll give you a clear timeline and handle all the details—from materials to final inspection—so you can enjoy peace of mind and a safer, more efficient fireplace.
Fireplace Service & Repair FAQs
1. Do you repair fireplaces that weren’t installed by Piccadilly Chimney or Ed’s Woodshed?
No—we only service fireplaces, stoves, inserts, and gas log sets that were originally purchased and installed through our sister company, Ed’s Woodshed. This ensures we’re working with products we know and trust, allowing us to diagnose issues faster, use compatible parts, and stand behind the results. If your unit came from Ed’s Woodshed, you’re in expert hands.
2. What types of fireplace problems can you fix?
We diagnose and repair issues with gas, wood, and electric fireplaces—including faulty ignitions, pilot light problems, broken blowers, malfunctioning remotes, and low heat output. Whether your unit won’t turn on or just isn’t working the way it used to, our team will pinpoint the cause and provide a fast, reliable solution. Most service calls are completed in one visit.
3. What should I do if my fireplace won’t turn on?
Start by checking your remote batteries, thermostat settings, and power supply. If none of those solve the issue, it’s time to schedule service. The problem could be a thermocouple, thermopile, ignition module, or something else. Our technicians are trained to quickly identify and fix these common failures—so you can get back to enjoying your fireplace without the guesswork.
4. How often should I schedule fireplace maintenance in southwest PA?
We recommend having your gas, wood, or electric fireplace serviced once a year—especially before the heating season begins. Pittsburgh’s freeze-thaw cycles and extended winter use can wear down key components over time. Annual maintenance helps prevent breakdowns, improves efficiency, and extends the lifespan of your fireplace.
5. Who performs the fireplace service and repairs for Piccadilly Chimney customers?
All fireplace service and repair appointments are handled by Ed’s Woodshed, our trusted sister company located right next door. Their in-house team is experienced, fully certified, and trained to work on every product they sell. That partnership ensures you get fast scheduling, expert diagnostics, and repairs you can count on.
Fireplace Sales & Installations FAQs
1. Can I buy a new fireplace directly from Piccadilly Chimney?
All fireplace sales and installations for Piccadilly Chimney customers are handled by our sister company, Ed’s Woodshed. Located on the same property as our office, Ed’s offers a wide range of gas, wood, and electric fireplaces, stoves, inserts, and gas log sets—with expert guidance and fast, in-house installation. It’s a seamless process, and we’re proud to own both companies and carry that same commitment to safety, service, and quality across both teams.
2. How do I know which fireplace is right for my home?
The right fireplace depends on your heating goals, home layout, style preferences, and whether you have an existing chimney or flue. Ed’s Woodshed will walk you through the pros and cons of each fuel type (gas, wood, or electric) and help you find the best fit for your space and lifestyle. You can also use our instant estimate tool to start narrowing down your options before visiting the showroom.
3. Can I see the fireplaces in person before making a decision?
Yes! Ed’s Woodshed has a full showroom in Bridgeville, PA, featuring dozens of live-burning fireplaces, stoves, and inserts. You’ll get to see the flames, feel the heat, and compare models side by side—with expert help from a friendly team who knows these products inside and out. Whether you’re just starting your search or finalizing your selection, the showroom is a great place to start.
4. Do you offer fireplace installation in southwest PA?
Absolutely. Ed’s Woodshed provides full-service installation for homeowners across the greater Pittsburgh area. Their licensed, in-house team handles everything—including permits, venting, and gas line work—so your new fireplace is installed safely, up to code, and without delays. In fact, most installs are completed in a single day.
5. Can I get a fireplace estimate online before scheduling an appointment?
Yes—just use our instant estimate tool. By answering a few simple questions about your space and preferences, you’ll receive a ballpark quote that helps you compare products and plan your budget. It’s quick, convenient, and a great way to kick off your fireplace project from the comfort of your couch.
