by Billy Sweet | Nov 24, 2025 | Chimney Repair
Living and working in Somerville means we understand the mix of historic homes, tight urban neighborhoods, and ever-changing New England weather better than most. When your chimney needs attention, you want a team that treats your home like part of the community — because it is. At Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep, we approach every repair with that local mindset, and it’s why so many Somerville homeowners trust us year after year.
1. We Know Somerville Homes Inside & Out
Chimneys in Somerville aren’t one-size-fits-all. From classic triple-deckers to renovated condos and older brick homes, each structure brings its own quirks. We’ve spent decades working on these exact styles, so we show up already understanding the construction, the weathering patterns, and the typical pain points.
- Familiarity with common brick types and historic masonry used throughout Somerville
- Experience navigating tight housing spacing and shared walls
- Repair methods tailored to older homes without creating unnecessary disruption
- Awareness of local climate patterns that affect mortar longevity
Because we work with these structures every day, we’re able to diagnose issues faster and approach repairs as smoothly and thoughtfully as possible. You get solutions that suit your specific home…not generic fixes that may not hold up.
2. We Offer Thorough, Honest Assessments
When you call us for chimney repair, we start with transparency. Our goal is to help you understand what’s going on with your chimney so you can make confident decisions. No scare tactics, just clear explanations and visuals to back them up.
- Full photo documentation of any damage we find
- Straightforward breakdowns of what repairs are needed and why
- Options presented at different levels so you stay in control
- Guidance on prevention to stretch the life of your chimney
You won’t feel rushed, confused, or pressured. We walk you through everything step by step, because informed homeowners make the best choices — and we want you to feel good about the work being done.
3. We Handle Masonry Repairs With Craftsmanship & Care
Whether it’s rebuilding a failing crown, replacing spalled bricks, or reinforcing a weakened structure, our masonry team approaches the job with the craftsmanship these homes deserve. Good repairs don’t just fix problems – they protect the architectural integrity of your home.
- Brick-matching techniques that help repairs blend with existing masonry
- Flexible mortar mixes that suit Somerville’s freeze-thaw cycles
- Careful demo and rebuild techniques to avoid added damage
- Repair plans designed to support long-term durability
We focus on doing the job as thoroughly and skillfully as possible, because cutting corners only leads to more issues later. Our goal is for your chimney to look great, work well, and stay strong.
4. We Help Improve the Overall Safety and Performance of Your System
Chimney issues often show up in subtle ways: a little moisture, a faint odor, a bit of crumbling mortar. Rest assured, we’re looking at the whole system to help ensure it performs as safely and as efficiently as possible.
- Identifying water entry points before they cause structural decay
- Reinforcing weak spots that might lead to future hazards
- Ensuring proper drafting and venting performance
- Offering upgrades like caps or liners when they support your system’s health
We take the extra time to understand how everything connects so your chimney can function better overall, not just look repaired on the surface.
5. We’re Local, Reliable & Always a Phone Call Away
Our team lives and works in the same communities we serve. When we repair your chimney, we know we’ll see the results (and you) again. That drives us to offer service you can count on from start to finish.
- Local scheduling flexibility that works with Somerville homeowners
- Crews who respect your property and your neighborhood
- Clear communication before, during, and after your repair
- Continued support if you ever have follow-up questions or concerns
We want you to feel confident that when something comes up with your chimney, you have a trusted local team ready to help. That dependability is one of the biggest reasons Somerville homeowners choose us and keep coming back.
If you’re noticing damage, moisture, or anything that just doesn’t seem right with your chimney, we’re here to take a look and help you get it resolved the right way.
by Billy Sweet | Oct 23, 2025 | Chimney Inspection
When was the last time your chimney had a full inspection – not just a quick sweep, but a complete safety check from top to bottom? Here in Somerville, homes come in all shapes and ages, from 19th-century row houses to modern renovations. Each one tells a story through its brickwork, but age, weather, and everyday use can quietly wear down even the best-built chimneys. That’s why homeowners across Greater Boston trust Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep for detailed, honest chimney inspections that catch small issues before they turn into expensive repairs.
What Makes Regular Chimney Inspections So Important in Somerville?
Somerville weather swings from humid summers to freezing winters, and those freeze/thaw cycles can wreak havoc on mortar joints. Even minor cracks can spread fast once moisture seeps in. An annual inspection helps make sure your chimney is standing as strong as it looks.
During an inspection, our certified technicians check:
- Masonry and mortar joints for cracks, loose bricks, and early signs of spalling.
- Flue liners for hidden gaps or damage that could allow carbon monoxide leaks.
- Crown and flashing for leaks that often show up after heavy snow or rain.
- Smoke chamber and damper for buildup, corrosion, or improper function.
We use advanced video scanning tools to see what the naked eye can’t, because even microscopic cracks can lead to major safety issues down the road.
by Billy Sweet | Sep 11, 2025 | Chimney Sweeping
At Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep, we’ve been helping Cambridge homeowners for years with detailed chimney sweeping services that go far beyond a quick brush. Whether you live in a historic brownstone near Harvard Square, a condo by the Charles River, or a family home in North Cambridge, we know the unique challenges that come with maintaining chimneys in New England’s climate.
Here are the top 7 reasons locals turn to us for their chimney sweeping needs:
1. We Focus on Detailed, Thorough Cleanings
A sweep is only as good as the detail put into it. We don’t just remove the surface soot – we target creosote buildup at every stage, from flaky deposits to hardened, tar-like layers. This helps your system operate more smoothly and lowers your risk of chimney fires.
2. Our Team Is CSIA-Certified
Cambridge homeowners deserve peace of mind. That’s why our technicians are trained and certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). With us, you’re getting service backed by national standards and best practices.
3. We Use Modern Tools & Techniques
Gone are the days of messy, dust-filled sweeps. We use HEPA-filtered vacuums and professional-grade equipment designed to minimize disruption inside your home. That way, your chimney gets a deep clean…without leaving soot behind in your living room.
4. We Have Local Knowledge of Cambridge Homes
From historic properties in Mid-Cambridge to newer builds around Fresh Pond, our team understands the wide range of chimney systems found here. Older masonry chimneys often need extra attention due to age and mortar wear, while newer prefab systems require specialized handling.
5. We Spot Problems Before They Grow
A big part of sweeping is doing a thorough inspection. As we clear debris, we also keep an eye out for early signs of trouble: cracks in the flue, loose mortar, animal nests, or water intrusion. Spotting these issues early can save you from costly repairs later.
6. We Focus on Seasonal Preparation for Harsh New England Winters
We know Cambridge winters are long and cold. A clean chimney not only improves safety but also makes your fireplace or stove run more efficiently when you need it most. Our sweeps help ensure your system is ready before the deep freeze sets in.
7. We’re Trusted by Your Neighbors
Our reputation is built on consistency and care. Many of our Cambridge clients have been with us for years, relying on us season after season to keep their homes comfortable and their fireplaces enjoyable.
Keep Your Home Safer & Cozier With a Professional Chimney Sweeping With Us
Don’t wait until smoke backs up into your home or odors creep in from your chimney. For chimney sweeping near you, trust Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep. We give you confidence that your system is clean, clear, and ready to enjoy all season long.
Call us today to schedule your chimney sweep in Cambridge, MA and see why your neighbors already trust us with their fireplaces.
by Billy Sweet | Mar 31, 2020 | Chimney Anatomy
Your chimney may be the biggest system in your home besides the central air and heating unit and there’s a lot that can go wrong with it. Because it’s so big and can cause big problems for your home, it’s important to understand just what makes up the chimney system, how it works, and how it can go wrong.
Parts of the Chimney
From bottom to top, there are many parts and materials that make up a fireplace and chimney system. The terms ‘fireplace’ and ‘chimney’ are often used interchangeably, and they work together to get the job done. What we know as the fireplace is actually called the firebox, and what we know as the chimney is actually the flue. These are only two parts of a very large system that must be built and maintained properly. Only then will the system work efficiently and safely.
Foundation – Just as the house itself sits on a foundation that holds it up and prevents settlement and shifting as seasons and weather change the soil, the chimney requires a foundation. Oftentimes this foundation is built when the home is built, but not always.
Ash Dump – Some, but not all, chimneys have an ash dump. This is a space beneath the firebox where ashes can be pushed and stored to cool and collect over time. A chimney sweep can remove these ashes as needed through a cleanout door near the foundation—a service that usually isn’t required for several years.
Hearth – The hearth is the floor of the firebox which usually extends from the back of the fireplace out into the room a bit and is made of a particular firebrick and refractory mortar that protects against heat transfer from the fire.
Firebox – The space where the fire sits and burns is called the firebox. It endures the highest temperatures for the longest periods but receives the least attention. The firebox is constructed of firebricks and refractory mortar.
Damper – The damper is a mechanism, usually made of metal, installed at the top of the firebox and opens and closes the flue opening. When the damper is closed, very little air moves through the chimney system. When the flue is open, air flows freely.
Smoke Chamber – The space above the firebox is called the smoke chamber—so named because this is where the particles and gases mingle with the heat to rise up the chimney. It is shaped like an inverted funnel to direct smoke upward and into the flue. Beneath the smoke chamber, there is a shelf (called the smoke shelf) designed to prevent smoke from falling back into the firebox and into the home. The walls of the smoke chamber should be at certain angles and smooth.
Flue – The flue is the interior vent by which smoke and gases travel out of the home. The surface of the flue should be covered with a liner that keeps heat and corrosive chemicals from damaging or moving through the masonry and gives it a seamless, smooth surface for optimum airflow.
Masonry Crown – At the top of the chimney there is a ceiling that extends from the flue opening to the edge of the chimney. The crown is made out of durable material that can withstand harsh temperatures, sunlight, and precipitation. It is also made at a slant so that water runs away from the flow and onto a drip edge, where it drips down onto the flashing at the roof instead of running down the masonry.
Chimney Cap – The chimney cap is the roof of the chimney system. It keeps water, animals, wind, and weather out. The cap is necessary to prevent chimney water damage and animal intrusion. It is often made of copper or stainless steel.
Common Chimney Problems
Even a well-constructed chimney can become damaged over time—especially through particularly rough winters or when subjected to coastal air and moisture.
- Spalling masonry can be particularly devastating to chimneys that stand in coastal regions. This is when the mortar cracks and falls away, causing bricks to loosen and take on water.
- Leaky chimneys can lead to damaged parts of the chimney, but also water damage throughout the house. A chimney leak can occur in any season and cause damage year-round.
- Smoky fireplaces are usually caused by an obstruction, draft issue, or even the wrong firewood being burned in the fireplace! A smoky fireplace doesn’t always require a repair but should always be troubleshot and a professional should be called if the problem persists.
- Liner damage is most often due to an old clay tile liner becoming worn out and breaking apart. You might find pieces of clay tile in your firebox or notice problems like masonry that is hot to the touch. Liner damage can also be caused by a dirty flue or a flue fire.
Whether your system is old or new, whether you have a fireplace, a stove, or an insert, whether you burn wood, pellets, or gas, your chimney is important. It can be a great asset, but can also be very dangerous. Make sure you know the ins and outs of chimney function and maintenance. Make sure your chimney system is safe and efficient. It will work better and for longer.
Call and schedule services with Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep today by calling 617-469-4528
by Billy Sweet | Feb 29, 2020 | Chimney Maintenance
There are many issues that can arise during the winter months—things that affect the bills you pay and the safety of your home. The problems that affect your home this winter are not always caused by your fire appliance, your heater, or even neglect. Many problems arise because of weather, storms, damage, or other things entirely out of our control. In order for our customers to have the safest home possible this winter and every winter, we recommend these tips.
Gutters and Drains
Gutters and outside drains are great assets during freezing winters and wet springs. However, if they aren’t properly maintained, they can become a hazard. Leaves and debris left inside gutters and drains can cause a clog, allow your water flow to stall and freeze, and even lead to leaks and water damage outside the gutter system. A gutter problem doesn’t just affect the roof, eaves, and house. An overflowing or damaged gutter can lead to washout and damage to your landscaping and direct rainwater to your basement and foundation instead of designated drainage areas.
Weatherizing Windows
The only windows that do not need to be weatherized are those that are double-pane storm windows. There are specific models and brands of windows that will insulate your home despite the outside weather and temperature, but these windows are expensive and not usually in older homes. If you have a standard single-pane window, it should be properly winterized in order to save you money and prevent damage.
Screen Removal – If your windows have an outer screen, the screen should be removed during winter prep. Leaving the screens in the window can allow water to pass through the screen and then freeze against the window and the window sill. This not only leads to a temperature drop but also can ruin a wooden window frame and sill. Remove the screen and store upright in a storage closet, basement, or attic.
Storm Window Panes – If your single-pane windows have a screen, look around the basement and attic for replacement storm windows. These panes slip right into the space where the screen is removed. If your windows do not have storm window panes, remove the screen and plastic over your windows for insulation.
Window Insulation – Whether you have storm windows or simple single-pane windows, you can still add clear plastic insulation to your windows to help keep the cold out and keep your warm air in. You can hire someone to winterize your windows or purchase a window insulation kit at your local home improvement store to improve your home’s heat efficiency.
Lawn Maintenance
By the end of summer, we are excited to be finished with lawn care. We’re excited for the leaves to begin falling and celebrate as we put that weed trimmer and lawnmower in the shed for the winter. While we as homeowners are understandably finished with lawn care when autumn arrives, it’s important to trim your lawn before winter is in full force. Oftentimes, the grass stops growing, so we fail to cut it one last time. This makes raking more difficult when necessary and can hide hazards beneath high grass and then snow as fall turns to winter and winter to spring. Cutting your grass before winter arrives will mean a seamless transition back to spring and summer and will mean a healthier lawn and healthier microorganisms that help cultivate healthy soil.
Air Duct and Dryer Vent Maintenance
During winter months, we use air ducts and dryer vents more often than other times of the year. You may not even realize it, but you are likely spending more time than ever indoors, breathing recycled air that has been moving through your HVAC system over and over. You are also likely using the clothes dryer more often than in warmer months if you use a clothesline during the warmer months.
Whatever the reason, these systems are being used, and are oftentimes neglected. In order for a more efficient and safer central air and heating system, make sure you have your air ducts cleaned and sanitized as needed. When the system is maintained properly it will use less energy, will cycle and filter the air in your home better, and will last longer. Similarly, the clothes dryer vent will work better when it is cleaned annually. Not only will a clean dryer vent keep your family safe this winter, but it will help your dryer work better, work safely, use less energy, and last longer. Running your dryer multiple times for one load of clothes is a sign that there is a problem—and it’s a sign that costs you money! Schedule dryer maintenance now and see how much it saves you.
Chimney and Fireplace Maintenance
Homes that have a fireplace and chimney system are safer when they are maintained properly. Don’t take our word for it! The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) both agree that the safest and most efficient chimney systems are those that are cleaned regularly and inspected annually. Ideally, a homeowner would schedule these important services before the burn season, but it isn’t too late.
Residents in Boston, North Shore, and Portland area can call and schedule a sweep or inspection with Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep anytime, year-round. Our aim is to make safe homes and warm hearths. Dial 617-469-4528 or contact us online.
