Business Details
44 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Partner for Chimney Repair Solutions
Priddy Clean Chimney Sweeps has been a trusted name in chimney and fireplace services since 1982. Founded in Bethesda, Maryland, we have grown from a one-person operation to a full-service company offering chimney sweeps, inspections, repairs, and artisanal masonry expertise across Washington DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia. Our team of CSIA-certified technicians prioritizes safety, quality, and honest communication, serving both residential and commercial clients.We specialize in routine maintenance, emergency repairs, and custom fireplace designs, using advanced technology like video scanning to ensure precision. As a family-owned, woman-led business, we combine decades of experience with a commitment to customer satisfaction, offering transparent pricing and tailored solutions for every client.
Services
Chimney Inspections
Chimney Sweeps
Fireplace Repairs
Gas Fireplace Conversions
Dryer Vent Cleaning
Chimney Rebuilds
Tuck Pointing
Chimney Relining
Custom Chimney Caps
Fireplace Design
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience in chimney and fireplace services.
- Our team includes CSIA-certified technicians with advanced diagnostic tools.
- We offer comprehensive solutions from inspections to full chimney rebuilds.
- We guarantee transparent pricing and detailed repair reports.
- We serve Washington DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia with local expertise.
Associations and certifications
- Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)
- National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
What people say
Excellent service
Professional team
Prompt emergency response
Detailed inspections
Trustworthy company
Services
Chimney Inspection
Our CSIA-certified technicians perform Level 13 chimney inspections using video scanning technology to detect structural damage, liner issues, and blockages. Services include NFPA 211-compliant evaluations for real estate transactions, annual maintenance checks, and post-emergency assessments. We provide detailed reports with photos and repair recommendations to ensure safety and code compliance.
Chimney Sweep
Professional chimney sweeping removes creosote buildup and debris to prevent fires and improve efficiency. Our technicians use industrial brushes and vacuums to clean flues, smoke chambers, and dampers. We recommend annual sweeps for wood-burning systems and include a basic safety inspection with every service to identify potential hazards.
Fireplace Repair
We repair cracked fireboxes, damaged mortar, and malfunctioning dampers for wood and gas fireplaces. Services include tuck pointing, liner replacement, and custom cap installations. Our masons restore masonry integrity while maintaining code compliance, ensuring safe operation and improved aesthetics for residential and commercial properties.
Gas Fireplace Conversion
Upgrade to a gas fireplace with energy-efficient inserts that reduce heating costs and increase home value. Our team installs vented and vent-free models, including remote-controlled units with realistic flame effects. We handle permits, venting, and safety checks to ensure seamless integration with existing chimneys and compliance with local building codes.
Chimney Rebuild
We perform partial and full chimney rebuilds using durable materials like brick, stone, and stainless steel. Services include crown replacement, flashing repairs, and structural reinforcement for storm-damaged or deteriorated chimneys. Our masons follow manufacturer specifications and local codes to restore functionality and enhance curb appeal for residential properties.
People
Seth Balsam
Owner
Seth Balsam founded Priddy Clean Chimney Sweeps in 1982. With expertise in global procurement and supply chain operations, he oversees daily operations and strategic growth. Seth combines technical knowledge with a passion for chimney physics to ensure service excellence.
Christina El-Hage
Vice President of Commercial Sales
Christina El-Hage leads commercial sales with 15 years of industry experience. A native of Olney, she specializes in home design and chimney systems, earning recognition for her sales leadership and technical expertise in the fireplace industry.
Hind Domanowski
Vice President of Operations
Hind Domanowski manages operations with fluency in four languages and a background in consulting. A UMD graduate, she focuses on resolving ventilation issues and improving customer service processes while advocating for community engagement and sustainable business practices.
Questions
How often should I schedule a chimney inspection?
The National Fire Protection Association recommends annual inspections, even if the chimney is rarely used. Additional checks are advised after storms, home sales, or system modifications.
What's the difference between a chimney cleaning and sweep?
A chimney sweep focuses on removing soot and creosote from the flue, while cleaning includes debris removal from the firebox, smoke chamber, and damper for comprehensive maintenance.
Do you offer emergency repair services?
Yes, we provide emergency leak and masonry repairs for urgent chimney issues across Washington DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia.
Can you install gas fireplace inserts?
Yes, we specialize in gas fireplace conversions with energy-efficient inserts that reduce heating costs and improve home value.
Are your technicians certified?
Our team includes Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)-certified technicians who follow NFPA 211 standards for safety and compliance.
