CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps
Built For The Fire.
Built To Last.
Rich and Carol Mason have been keeping families safe and warm for over two decades. From routine sweeps to full chimney rebuilds, we do it right the first time.
CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps
Rich and Carol Mason have been keeping families safe and warm for over two decades. From routine sweeps to full chimney rebuilds, we do it right the first time.
What We Do
Every job is performed by Rich or Carol personally. No subcontractors. No shortcuts.
Creosote buildup is the leading cause of chimney fires. Our thorough cleaning removes all deposits from firebox to flue cap, protecting your home and improving draft efficiency. We follow NFPA 211 standards on every visit and provide a written condition report when we finish.
Annual cleanings are recommended for any chimney used regularly. We serve residential and commercial properties throughout the region, and same-week appointments are usually available.
Most Popular ServiceCracked flue tiles, spalled brick, deteriorated mortar joints and leaning stacks are all safety hazards. We handle everything from spot tuckpointing to complete above-roofline rebuilds using materials matched to your home.
A quality chimney cap keeps rain, animals and debris out of your flue. A top-sealing damper dramatically reduces energy loss. We install stainless steel caps and Lyemance or Lock-Top dampers sized for your chimney.
Why Hearthside
Rich and Carol perform every job themselves. You get two decades of hands-on experience at every appointment, not a rotating crew of trainees.
Both owners hold active Chimney Safety Institute of America certifications and complete continuing education annually to stay current with code changes.
Every inspection concludes with a written, photographed condition report. You know exactly what we found, what we did, and what to watch for next season.
Flat-rate pricing with no hidden fees. We tell you the full cost before any work begins and we never create or exaggerate problems to pad a ticket.
Meet the Masons
Rich began sweeping chimneys in his late twenties after a family friend nearly lost their home to a flue fire. Carol joined the business a few years later, earning her own CSIA certification and taking over the inspection documentation side of the work.
Together they have built Hearthside into one of the most trusted chimney services in the area. Their philosophy is simple: treat every fireplace like it is in your own home, because it is in someone else's.
What Clients Say
"Rich came out on a Tuesday, found a cracked flue liner we had no idea about, and had it repaired by Thursday. His knowledge is remarkable and his price was completely fair. We will not use anyone else."
James and Patricia Wheeler, Fairview Heights
"Carol walked me through every single thing she was doing and showed me photos as she went. I felt completely informed. The fireplace drafts better now than it has in years. Absolutely five stars."
Michelle Donovan, Cedar Ridge
Get Started Today
We respond to every inquiry within one business day. Free inspections available for new clients throughout the service area.