New Jersey’s Changing Climate Creates New Challenges for Homeowners: Why Storm-Battered Chimneys Need More Frequent Attention

As climate change reshapes weather patterns across the Garden State, New Jersey homeowners are discovering an unexpected consequence of our increasingly volatile atmosphere: their chimneys require more frequent maintenance than ever before. Average annual precipitation in New Jersey has increased 5 to 10 percent in the last century, and precipitation from extremely heavy storms has increased 70 percent in the Northeast since 1958, creating new challenges for chimney systems that weren’t designed to withstand such intense and frequent weather events.

The Perfect Storm: How Climate Change Affects New Jersey Weather

New Jersey has become ground zero for climate change impacts in the Northeast. According to climatology research by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, New Jersey has been the fastest-warming state by average air temperature over a 100-year period beginning in the early 20th century. This warming trend has created a cascade of weather-related challenges that directly impact home infrastructure.

Wind speeds and rainfall intensity during hurricanes and tropical storms are likely to increase as the climate warms. Rising sea level is likely to increase flood insurance rates, while more frequent storms could increase the deductible for wind damage in homeowner insurance policies. The 1980–2024 annual average is 1.7 events (CPI-adjusted); the annual average for the most recent 5 years (2020–2024) is 5.2 events for billion-dollar weather disasters affecting New Jersey, showing a dramatic increase in severe weather frequency.

Why Chimneys Bear the Brunt of Storm Damage

Chimneys are particularly vulnerable to storm damage due to their exposed position. Since the chimney is the highest point at the top of a house, it is the most likely to be damaged by high winds, heavy rain or lightning during a storm. Since the chimney is the highest point of your home, it’s most likely to be damaged by strong winds, heavy rain and lightning during a weather event.

The types of damage that frequent storms can inflict on chimney systems include:

Water infiltration: Small problems caused by a storm like a missing chimney cap, cracked bricks or loose flashing can lead to bigger problems if they aren’t fixed quickly. A common result of unrepaired storm damage is a leaky chimney or roof that causes water damage to ceilings, walls and structural beams
Structural damage: Visible damage to the bricks and mortar of the chimney is a warning sign of structural damage. This damage may be caused by impact from debris during a storm with high wind speeds or from water seeping into the chimney system
Component displacement: If you find out that your chimney cap or chase cover is damaged or dislodged, water will have an easier time getting into your home through the chimney. Though they can handle harsh weather, it could be displaced due to a harsh storm. If you notice that the hat is missing or damaged, have it replaced or repaired immediately

The Cleaning Connection: Why More Storms Mean More Maintenance

While the standard recommendation has traditionally been annual chimney cleaning, New Jersey’s changing climate is forcing homeowners to reconsider this schedule. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), all chimneys should be cleaned at least once every year, regardless, but this baseline doesn’t account for increased storm frequency and intensity.

Several factors related to increased storm activity necessitate more frequent chimney cleaning:

Debris accumulation: More frequent storms mean more debris – leaves, branches, and other materials – can enter and block chimney systems
Water damage acceleration: Water damage in and around the chimney can also deteriorates the structure of the chimney making it unstable and unsafe to use
Accelerated wear: Over time, your chimney’s bricks and mortar joints can start to crack or loosen, creating easy access for moisture. Adding a waterproofing layer afterwards gives your chimney the added protection it needs to resist future water damage

If you use your wood-burning fireplace year-round, cleaning it 2-3 times a year might be necessary. The more often you use it, the more creosote will build up. However, in New Jersey’s increasingly stormy climate, even less-frequently used chimneys may require more attention due to storm-related damage and debris.

Professional Expertise Makes the Difference

For New Jersey homeowners facing these new climate realities, working with experienced professionals is crucial. Companies like Apex Chimney Repairs understand the unique challenges facing Garden State residents. With over three decades of experience, we specialize in dryer vent, air duct, and chimney cleaning services across New Jersey. Our professional, certified technicians use advanced tools to ensure your home’s safety.

Apex Chimney Repairs brings several key advantages to addressing climate-related chimney challenges:

Comprehensive coverage: Serving all of Northern, Central, and Southern New Jersey
Professional certifications: We are NADCA Certified, C-DET and CSIA Certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America for dryer vent cleanings and Chimney Cleaning and inspections
Family-oriented service: We believe in honest, family-oriented service, always putting our customers first. A local business with a commitment to family values
Proven track record: We are locally owned & operated and have been serving Central, Northern & Southern New Jersey Residents and Businesses since 1975

Adapting to New Jersey’s Climate Reality

As New Jersey continues to experience the effects of climate change, homeowners must adapt their maintenance schedules accordingly. Besides getting your chimney inspected at least annually, anytime you see visible signs of deterioration, an inspection should be scheduled as soon as possible. The best plan is to get your chimney cleaned and inspected in spring or summer, not only to get a jump on the busy season, but also to give time for repairs, if any are needed.

For homeowners seeking reliable chimney cleaning New Jersey services, the key is finding professionals who understand both traditional chimney maintenance and the new challenges posed by our changing climate. When you choose Apex Chimney Repair, you choose peace of mind and a cleaner, safer home. Apex Chimney Repairs gives New Jersey homeowners specific solutions that make sure your home runs as smoothly and safely as it was designed to.

The reality is clear: New Jersey’s increasingly severe weather patterns require homeowners to be more proactive about chimney maintenance than ever before. By understanding these climate-driven changes and working with experienced professionals, Garden State residents can protect their homes and families from the growing risks posed by our changing atmosphere. Don’t wait for storm damage to force your hand – schedule regular inspections and cleanings to stay ahead of New Jersey’s new climate reality.