Business Details
17 Years
experience
Trusted Chimney Cleaning Services in Virginia Beach
A Step in Time Chimney Sweeps has served Virginia and Maryland homeowners for over fifteen years, specializing in chimney cleaning, inspections, and structural engineering services. Our team of licensed, insured professionals prioritizes safety and quality, ensuring compliance with homeowner insurance requirements while mitigating fire risks. Founded by Ray Gessner, a licensed professional engineer with advanced degrees in civil engineering, we combine technical expertise with hands-on service. Our A+ Better Business Bureau rating reflects our commitment to customer satisfaction and industry standards. We offer comprehensive solutions including video inspections, dryer vent cleaning, and stainless steel chimney liner installations.Our technicians use meticulous cleaning methods, protecting homes from dust and debris while delivering efficient service. Pricing varies based on chimney complexity, with transparent fees for specialized services like wood stove inserts. We provide warranties on repairs and materials, ensuring long-term reliability. Our structural engineering expertise enables tailored solutions for unique chimney challenges. Available for scheduled maintenance and urgent needs, we emphasize preventive care to extend chimney system longevity.
Services
Chimney Inspection
Chimney Sweeping
Dryer Vent Cleaning
Chimney Repair
Stainless Steel Liner Installation
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- We have over 15 years of experience in chimney maintenance and structural engineering.
- Our team includes a licensed professional engineer with advanced civil engineering credentials.
- We maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau for service excellence.
- Our technicians use protective measures to prevent mess during chimney cleaning.
- We offer comprehensive warranties on both labor and materials for chimney repairs.
Associations and certifications
- Better Business Bureau (BBB)
Services
Chimney Inspection
Our comprehensive chimney inspections identify structural issues and safety hazards. Using advanced video technology, we examine flue systems for cracks, leaks, or blockages that could compromise safety. Our licensed engineers assess chimney integrity to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations while providing detailed recommendations for necessary repairs.
Chimney Sweeping
Professional chimney sweeping removes creosote buildup and debris from flue systems. Our technicians use protective drop cloths and industrial vacuums to maintain home cleanliness during service. We adapt cleaning methods to different chimney constructions while ensuring thorough removal of fire hazards from residential chimney systems.
Dryer Vent Cleaning
This specialized service clears lint and debris from dryer vent systems. Our technicians clean entire vent lines through walls and ceilings to reduce fire risks while improving appliance efficiency. Regular maintenance extends dryer lifespan and lowers energy consumption through improved airflow.
Chimney Repair
We address structural damage including cracked masonry and leaking flues. Our repair services include one-year labor warranties and extended product warranties up to lifetime coverage. Using durable materials, we restore chimney functionality while ensuring long-term safety and compliance with building codes.
Stainless Steel Liner Installation
We install high-heat resistant stainless steel chimney liners for improved safety and efficiency. These durable liners outperform traditional terra cotta tiles while offering lifetime warranties. Proper lining ensures safe venting of combustion gases and maintains chimney system integrity over time.
People
Ray Gessner
Founder & Licensed Engineer
Ray Gessner, founder of A Step in Time, holds a civil engineering degree from Virginia Tech and a master's from Old Dominion University. As a licensed professional engineer in Virginia, he oversees all technical operations and provides expert structural assessments for complex chimney systems.
Questions
How often should chimneys be inspected?
Annual inspections are recommended to maintain safety and insurance compliance. More frequent checks may be needed for heavy usage or after extreme weather events.
What causes chimney fires?
Creosote buildup from incomplete combustion is the primary fire hazard. Regular cleaning and proper wood-burning practices significantly reduce this risk in residential chimneys.
Do you offer emergency services?
While we focus on scheduled maintenance, we prioritize urgent repair needs during regular business hours. Preventive care helps avoid most emergency situations.
What payment methods are accepted?
We accept major credit cards and cash payments. Payment plans may be available for extensive repair projects with prior approval.
Are chimney inspections disruptive?
Our non-invasive inspections use specialized cameras to assess flue systems without requiring structural modifications to your home or chimney.
How long do chimney repairs take?
Most standard repairs complete within one workday. Complex structural issues may require additional time, with clear timelines provided before starting work.
Reviews (4)
Reid Legg
Nov 26, 2018
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Step In Time responded quickly to my requests, refurbished and certified my chimney with zero hassle. The price came out to almost half of their competitor and the work was completed in one afternoon. Very good service from Mike and his crew.
Roger Anderson
May 17, 2018
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I consider the work done by Step-in-Time to be a complete rip off. Tried to do charge me for unneeded work ie seal the tops of our chimeys which had been already previously lsealed, and reparge the inside of our fireplace. Work that had not been discussed. Most importantly they sent three workers to clean some moss off one chimney and water seal it and a second chimney. Clearly, tis work could have been by one person, maybe 2.
Lot of standing around doing nothing. The work took 2 hours to complete. heck I paid them more than I pay my lawyer! Don't hire this company! I have no complaints about the work crew. they were honest and believe would have worked if there was work that really needed to be done.
Lot of standing around doing nothing. The work took 2 hours to complete. heck I paid them more than I pay my lawyer! Don't hire this company! I have no complaints about the work crew. they were honest and believe would have worked if there was work that really needed to be done.
Jim Poplawski
May 02, 2017
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Step in Time did a great job in replacing the liner in my chimney as well as repairing my roof. Scott took the time to explain what needed to be done and made sure that everything was complete and the whole area was cleaned up before they left. He and his crew were on time, professional, and polite. I would recommend them to anyone needing these services.
Cheryl Bacak
Dec 26, 2016
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We initially hired A Step in Time to make some minor repairs on our chimney. They contractor, Damien, and the owner, Scott, were unlike any other I have experienced. They communicated with us from start to finish. They were thorough and professional. During this time, we learned our roof needed to be replaced as well. Once we found out this company also had a roofing division, we hired them. We could not be happier.
The service and professionalism from start to finish is unmatched. We had a couple of "punch list" items following the completion of our roof, that were addressed and rectified immediately. We gladly and highly recommend A Step in Time to anyone and will use them if needed again in the future.
The service and professionalism from start to finish is unmatched. We had a couple of "punch list" items following the completion of our roof, that were addressed and rectified immediately. We gladly and highly recommend A Step in Time to anyone and will use them if needed again in the future.
