Business Details
41 Years
experience
Expert Chimney Services in South Orange, NJ
Since the mid-1980s, Top Hat & Tails has been a trusted provider of professional chimney services in South Orange, New Jersey, and surrounding areas. Our Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)-certified technicians bring decades of hands-on experience to every project, prioritizing safety, transparency, and quality craftsmanship. We specialize in chimney sweeping, flue relining, camera inspections, masonry repairs, and leak mitigation, serving homeowners across Essex County with reliable, code-compliant solutions. Our team adheres to NFPA 211 inspection standards and maintains active membership in the National Chimney Sweep Guild and New Jersey Chimney Sweep Guild.Founder Bob Harris, currently serving as NJCSG President, has shaped our commitment to technical excellence and customer education. We emphasize clear communication, avoiding upselling while delivering thorough diagnostics and long-lasting repairs. With a focus on local service areas including Montclair, Maplewood, and Madison, we combine advanced technology like chimney camera inspections with traditional masonry expertise to protect both home safety and structural integrity.
Services
Chimney Sweeping
Flue Relining
Camera Inspection
Masonry Repairs
Leak Repair
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in residential chimney services.
- Our technicians are CSIA-certified with ongoing industry training.
- We provide honest assessments without upselling unnecessary services.
- We serve multiple communities across Essex County and beyond.
- We follow NFPA 211 inspection standards and local building codes.
Associations and certifications
- Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)
What people say
Professional and timely service
Excellent customer communication
Honest recommendations
Thorough inspections
Reliable long-term service
Services
Chimney Sweeping
Our chimney sweeping removes creosote buildup and debris to prevent fire hazards. Certified technicians use professional equipment to ensure proper ventilation while protecting your home's interior. Regular maintenance improves fireplace efficiency and safety compliance.
Chimney Flue Relining
We install durable chimney liners to restore proper venting systems. This service addresses damaged flue tiles that compromise safety. Our relining solutions meet current building codes and enhance combustion gas evacuation efficiency.
Chimney Camera Inspection
Advanced camera technology allows internal chimney assessment without demolition. This non-invasive method identifies cracks, blockages, or deterioration. Inspections provide visual documentation to guide repair decisions and maintenance planning.
Masonry Repairs
Our masonry services address chimney structural integrity. We repair cracked bricks, replace deteriorated mortar, and restore crowns. Techniques include tuckpointing and full-section rebuilding to prevent water infiltration and maintain aesthetic appeal.
Chimney Leak Repair
We diagnose and fix water intrusion points at flashing, crown, or brick joints. Repairs use weather-resistant materials to prevent moisture damage. Preventative treatments extend chimney lifespan while protecting adjacent home structures.
People
Bob Harris
Founder
Bob Harris established Top Hat & Tails in 1985. As current President of the New Jersey Chimney Sweep Guild, he maintains industry leadership while overseeing technical training and service standards for the company's CSIA-certified team.
Questions
What chimney services do you offer?
We provide chimney sweeping, flue relining, camera inspections, masonry repairs, and leak repair services using CSIA-certified technicians.
How often should chimneys be inspected?
Annual inspections are recommended by the National Fire Protection Association, with more frequent service needed for regular fireplace use.
Do you serve areas outside Essex County?
We serve Essex County and extend into Morris, Union, Hudson, and Bergen counties. Contact us to confirm service availability in your specific location.
Are your technicians certified?
All technicians hold Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certification with ongoing training through national and state chimney guilds.
What preparation is needed for service?
Clear six feet around fireplaces, secure pets, and avoid fireplace use 24 hours before appointments to ensure safe, efficient service delivery.
How long do chimney appointments take?
Standard sweeping takes 45-60 minutes; inspections add 30-45 minutes. Repairs vary depending on complexity and required materials.
