Marcus T Chimney Inc. delivers thorough, first-time-homeowner-friendly chimney inspections and cleanings you can trust—licensed, insured, and backed by 20 years of local service.
Buying your first Highlands home is exciting—until you realize the chimney hasn’t been touched in decades. At Marcus T Chimney Inc., we make chimney care simple, safe, and stress-free for new homeowners. No confusing jargon, no upsells—just a clean, inspected chimney that works when you need it most. Serving Highlands and the surrounding Shore towns since 2004, we’re the local experts you can rely on year after year.
Comprehensive chimney sweep for Highlands homes and businesses.
A clean chimney is a safe chimney. We remove creosote, soot, and debris to prevent fires and improve draft—critical for Highlands’ coastal climate where moisture and salt air accelerate buildup.
Learn more →From cracked flues to crumbling mortar, we fix what Highlands’ weather has worn down. Fast, reliable, and built to last—so your chimney stands strong against coastal winds and salt spray.
Learn more →Keep your wood stove or gas fireplace running efficiently with routine care. We check gaskets, vents, and clearances to prevent costly repairs down the road.
Learn more →Protect your chimney from Highlands’ rain, birds, and debris with a custom-fit cap. Prevents water damage, draft issues, and keeps critters out—starting at just $199.
Learn more →Highlands’ humidity demands extra protection. We apply breathable sealants to prevent water absorption while allowing moisture to escape—keeping bricks intact for decades.
Learn more →If your flue is damaged or too large for modern appliances, we install stainless steel or cast-in-place liners to restore safety and efficiency—critical for Highlands’ older homes.
Learn more →We hold ourselves to the highest standards so you can hire with total confidence.
Buying a home with a fireplace is exciting, but owning a chimney comes with responsibilities that often feel overwhelming for first-time homeowners. At Marcus T Chimney Inc, we believe chimney maintenance shouldn't be a mystery. We serve the Highlands community by stripping away the complex jargon and explaining exactly what your chimney needs to keep your family safe and warm. Whether you are preparing for your first winter or just moved in during the spring, our team is here to guide you through the basics of chimney care with patience and expertise.

We’re not just another chimney sweep—we’re your Highlands neighbors. Fully licensed (#NJCS-4521) and insured, with coverage that protects your home and our crew. Our technicians are background-checked and trained in the latest safety protocols, so you can relax knowing your chimney is in expert hands.
We believe in transparency. Every estimate includes a detailed breakdown of costs, so you’ll never be surprised by upsells or last-minute charges. Whether it’s a quick sweep or a full restoration, we provide a written quote upfront—so you can budget with confidence.
Our work lasts. Every repair—from tuckpointing to liner installation—comes with a 1-year warranty against defects. If something goes wrong, we’ll fix it at no cost. We stand by our craftsmanship because your safety isn’t negotiable.
Chimney fires don’t wait for business hours. If you spot smoke backing up into your Highlands home or hear strange noises from your flue, call us immediately. We offer 24/7 emergency response, including holidays, to keep your family safe.
No waiting weeks for an appointment. Call (973) 382-0172 or use our online scheduler to pick a time that works for you—even same-day if available. We’ll confirm your address (we know Highlands’ winding streets well) and ask a few quick questions about your chimney’s history.
Our technician arrives in a marked van, fully equipped with tools and safety gear. We’ll greet you, explain the process, and take photos of your chimney’s condition before we begin—so you see exactly what we see.
We get to work removing soot and creosote from your flue, then perform a Level 1 or 2 inspection (your choice). You’ll get a live walkthrough of any issues, with no confusing jargon—just plain English and photos. No upsells, just clarity.
Within 24 hours, you’ll receive a detailed email with before/after photos, our recommendations, and a written estimate for any repairs. If your chimney is good to go, we’ll send a certificate of compliance. Easy, transparent, and done.
"As first-time homeowners in Highlands, we had no idea what to expect from chimney service. Marcus T Chimney Inc. made the whole process painless—clear explanations, no pressure, and a spotless chimney. They even pointed out a minor crack we’d missed. Highly recommend!"
"After a nor’easter flooded my fireplace, I panicked. Marcus T had someone out the next morning to assess the damage. They installed a chimney cap and waterproofed the masonry—now my chimney’s ready for the next storm. Professional and fast."
"I was worried about the cost of repairs, but Marcus T gave me a fair estimate upfront and stuck to it. They fixed my crumbling chimney crown before winter hit, and the warranty gives me peace of mind. Local, trustworthy service."
"We’ve used Marcus T for years—they’re the only chimney company we trust. Their attention to detail is unmatched, especially with our old brick chimney near the river. Always on time, always thorough."
"I called for a routine sweep and ended up needing a full relining. The team explained why it was necessary without making me feel nickel-and-dimed. Their work is top-notch, and they even cleaned up better than they found it."
"After a chimney fire scare, I knew I needed professionals. Marcus T came out immediately, inspected the damage, and got my chimney safe again. Their emergency service saved the day—and my home."
Expert local advice for Highlands homeowners.
Learn when Highlands, NJ homeowners need chimney repairs, how to spot damage, and what restoration costs in our coastal climate.
Read more →Living in Highlands means facing salty air and strong winds. This guide explains inspection levels, costs, and when to call Marcus T Chimney for help.
Read more →Learn when to sweep your Highlands chimney, what it costs, and how to pick a local pro who knows Monmouth County’s coastal climate risks.
Read more →Proudly serving Highlands and these nearby communities.
Yes, you generally can use your fireplace immediately after we finish sweeping. We ensure all soot and debris are removed before we leave. As long as the inspection didn't reveal any structural issues, your system is safe for use. We will let you know if we find anything that requires a waiting period before your next fire.
The National Fire Protection Association suggests inspecting your chimney annually. Even if you burn wood sparingly, animals or debris can block the flue. For locals, checking it before the winter season ensures safety. We recommend a yearly check-up to catch small problems before they become expensive repairs for your home.
That substance is creosote, a highly flammable byproduct of burning wood. It accumulates inside your flue over time and can ignite, causing dangerous chimney fires. Our sweeping process removes this sticky buildup effectively. Reducing creosote is essential because it traps heat and can transfer it to your home’s structure, creating a significant fire hazard.
Yes, salt air exposure accelerates the deterioration of masonry and metal components. Freeze-thaw cycles in winter can cause cracks to expand rapidly. We apply waterproof sealants to protect your bricks against moisture intrusion. This preventative maintenance stops water from seeping inside and destroying the internal liner, which is crucial for longevity in our coastal climate.
Absolutely, using our modern equipment allows us to see hidden damage. A camera inspection reveals cracks or blockages that eyes cannot reach from above or below. This diagnostic tool is vital for verifying the integrity of your flue liner. It provides you with a clear picture of your chimney's health so we can make specific repair recommendations.
That smell usually indicates moisture mixing with creosote inside the chimney. Rain can dampen the soot, releasing strong odors into your living space. Improper drafting or a missing chimney cap often exacerbates this issue. We can stop these odors by ensuring proper ventilation and capping the flue, keeping your home smelling fresh regardless of the weather.
No, most standard sweeping and inspection appointments are completed within an hour. We work efficiently to minimize disruption to your day. Our team protects your furniture and floors during the process. We focus on providing a comprehensive service quickly, so you can get back to enjoying your weekend without the hassle of a long, drawn-out project.
Strange sounds like chirping, scratching, or rustling often indicate animals are nesting inside. You might spot nesting materials falling into the fireplace or notice a sudden blockage in airflow. We can safely remove these critters and install a professional chimney cap. This prevents future entries, protects the animals, and clears the way for safe fireplace operation.
Fast response, upfront pricing, and workmanship guaranteed. Get your free estimate today.