Chimney & Fireplace Services in New Haven, CT — Built Around Safety, Experience
Chimney Inspection
Do I Really Need a Chimney Inspection?
Many homeowners assume that if the fireplace lights and smoke goes up, everything must be fine. But some of the most serious chimney issues stay hidden deep inside the flue or behind the masonry.
During an inspection in Fair Haven, a homeowner mentioned light smoke drifting into the room on colder nights. The chimney looked solid from the outside. Inside, however, the liner had partially collapsed, and an animal nest was restricting airflow. Without an inspection, the issue would have continued quietly—raising the risk of carbon monoxide exposure and interior damage.
A proper chimney inspection looks beyond the surface. It helps identify creosote buildup, liner damage, moisture intrusion, and airflow issues early—when they’re easier and safer to address.
Chimney Repair
Are Small Cracks in My Chimney Dangerous?
Cracks in chimney masonry often seem harmless at first. In reality, even small openings allow moisture to enter. Once winter temperatures drop, that moisture freezes, expands, and slowly breaks the structure apart from the inside.
In East Rock, we inspected a chimney with barely noticeable liner cracks. Over time, moisture had worked its way behind the brick, threatening the interior walls. Repointing the mortar, rebuilding the crown, and installing a cap stopped the damage before it spread further.
Early repairs don’t just protect the chimney—they protect the home around it.
Chimney Cleaning
Why Chimney Cleaning Is About More Than Soot?
Chimney cleaning isn’t cosmetic maintenance. It’s a safety measure.
Creosote builds up gradually with regular fireplace use. When it thickens, airflow becomes restricted, smoke struggles to exit properly, and the risk of chimney fire increases.
In Westville, we cleaned a chimney that hadn’t been serviced in years. Heavy creosote lined the flue, causing poor draft and smoke issues. Once cleaned, the fireplace burned more efficiently, smoke problems disappeared, and the homeowners felt confident using their fireplace again.
Regular cleaning keeps the system breathing the way it should.
Chimney Maintenance
How Routine Maintenance Prevents Costly Repairs?
Chimney maintenance focuses on the parts homeowners rarely think about—crowns, flashing, caps, liners, and mortar joints. These components quietly protect the home from water, heat loss, and structural damage.
Near Amity Road, early signs of flashing deterioration were caught during a routine visit. A simple repair prevented water from reaching insulation and ceilings, avoiding a much larger repair down the line.
Consistent maintenance keeps small issues from turning into expensive surprises.
Level 2 Chimney Inspection
When a Level 2 Inspection Is the Right Call?
Some situations call for a deeper look. Home sales, appliance changes, and storm damage often require a Level 2 chimney inspection, which includes internal camera scanning and detailed documentation.
In West River, a homeowner preparing to sell requested a Level 2 inspection. Video footage revealed a hidden flue obstruction caused by nesting birds. Once addressed and documented, the sale moved forward without delays or safety concerns.
Level 2 inspections bring clarity when decisions depend on chimney condition.
Chimney Crack Repair
How Do Chimney Crack Repairs Work?
Cracks in masonry or liners affect both safety and performance. Repairs may involve repointing mortar, restoring crowns, or addressing liner damage—each tailored to the chimney’s condition.
Near Quinnipiac Meadows, multiple hairline cracks were compromising proper draft. Targeted repairs and a new cap restored safe airflow and protected the structure from further weather exposure.
Timely repairs help extend the life of the chimney and keep it working as intended.
Chimney Leak Repair
What Causes Chimney Leaks and How Are They Fixed?
Chimney leaks usually start at the crown, flashing, or porous masonry. Left untreated, even small leaks can lead to staining, mold, and interior damage.
In Wooster Square, ceiling stains appeared after heavy rain. Repairing the crown, replacing flashing, and waterproofing the masonry stopped the leaks completely before winter arrived.
Fixing the source matters more than treating the symptoms.
Chimney Cap Installation
Why Chimney Caps Matter More Than Most Realize?
Chimney caps protect against rain, animals, debris, and downdrafts. Without one, chimneys are vulnerable year-round.
In East Shore, a missing cap allowed wildlife to nest inside the flue. After installing a stainless-steel cap with a spark guard, the chimney was fully protected and drafting properly again.
A simple cap often prevents some of the most common chimney problems.
Chimney Care That Fits New Haven Homes
For over 12 years, GMT Home Services has provided New Haven homeowners with reliable, expert chimney care. Our team holds CSIA (Chimney Safety Institute of America) and NFA (National Fire Academy) certifications, so every inspection, cleaning, repair, and installation is done right the first time. Whether your home is historic, coastal, or somewhere in between, we bring steady, honest guidance you can trust.
When your chimney works the way it should, it disappears from your mind—and that’s exactly how it should be.
Service Areas
We provide services across multiple areas in the Connecticut, serving both residential and commercial customers. Please check our service area map or contact us to see if we cover your location.