Business Details
28 Years
experience
Trusted Chimney & Fireplace Services Traverse City
Top Hat Chimney Sweep has served the Traverse City, Michigan area since 1998, combining decades of hands-on experience with certified technical expertise. Our founder, Timothy Burt, established the company with a commitment to safety, education, and customer empowerment, earning recognition from leading local hearth dealers. We specialize in chimney and fireplace maintenance, dryer vent cleaning, and appliance repairs, using industry-leading products like Chimney Saver waterproofing with long-term warranties. Our team prioritizes clear communication, mess-free service, and teaching homeowners how to prevent creosote buildup and chimney fires.With factory certifications from Travis Industries and National Fireplace Institute credentials, we maintain rigorous professional standards. We offer custom solutions for wood, gas, and pellet-burning appliances, including stainless steel chimney caps and Class A venting systems. Our direct-to-consumer product shipping option provides added convenience for DIY customers. Backed by 25 years of local service, we treat every home as if it were our own, ensuring reliable, year-round support. Our mission remains focused on safety, education, and building lasting trust with every client interaction.
Services
Chimney Cleaning
Fireplace Inspections
Dryer Vent Repair
Chimney Waterproofing
Gas Appliance Service
Pellet Stove Maintenance
Custom Chimney Caps
Creosote Prevention
Flue Liner Installation
Draft Problem Solutions
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- 25+ years serving Traverse City with certified chimney expertise
- Factory-trained technicians for gas, wood, and pellet appliances
- Mess-free service with guaranteed waterproofing warranties
- Educational approach to prevent creosote buildup and chimney fires
- Recommended by top local hearth dealers since 1998
Associations and certifications
- National Fireplace Institute
- Travis Industries Factory Certified
Services
Chimney Cleaning
Our chimney cleaning service removes creosote buildup and debris from wood-burning systems. Using specialized tools, we ensure complete flue clearance to prevent fire hazards while maintaining indoor air quality. Each session includes a basic inspection to identify potential issues.
Fireplace Inspections
Comprehensive fireplace inspections identify structural damage, drafting problems, and safety hazards. Our certified technicians use camera technology to examine internal components and provide detailed recommendations for repairs or maintenance.
Dryer Vent Repair
We clean and repair dryer exhaust systems to improve efficiency and reduce fire risks. Our process removes lint accumulation, checks for proper airflow, and seals leaks in residential venting systems.
Chimney Waterproofing
Our Chimney Saver waterproofing system protects masonry chimneys from water damage. The treatment creates a breathable barrier that prevents moisture intrusion while maintaining structural integrity with 10-15 year warranties.
Gas Appliance Service
Factory-certified technicians service gas fireplaces, inserts, and stoves. We inspect venting systems, clean burners, and ensure proper operation of catalytic converters and ignition components for safe, efficient performance.
People
Timothy Burt
Founder
Established Top Hat Chimney Sweep in 1998 after completing Travis Industries factory certification and National Fireplace Institute training. Specializes in wood, gas, and pellet-burning appliance maintenance with 25+ years local experience.
Questions
What chimney services do you offer?
We provide cleaning, inspections, waterproofing, damper repairs, and custom chimney caps. Services include wood, gas, and pellet-burning appliance maintenance with camera diagnostics.
Do you service gas fireplaces?
Yes, our technicians are factory-certified for gas appliance maintenance including venting systems, catalytic converters, and ignition components.
How do you prevent chimney fires?
We combine professional cleaning with homeowner education about creosote prevention and proper burning techniques to minimize fire risks.
Do you offer warranties?
Our Chimney Saver waterproofing includes 10-15 year warranties. We guarantee professional service with mess-free workmanship.
Can I buy chimney products directly?
Yes, we ship stainless steel chimney caps and other components directly to homeowners via PayPal payment after quote approval.
Reviews (5)
Cory S.
Aug 27, 2021
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Brandon was super friendly and very professional. He showed up on time and fixed our chimney caps along with cleaning our chimneys. Very knowledgeable and would highly recommend Brandon for all your chimney needs.
Cory Stepanek
Torch lake, MI
Cory Stepanek
Torch lake, MI
Kent N.
Nov 28, 2018
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We had a problem with a gas fireplace. Miraculously, Tim was available on one day's notice. He arrived ontime, was polite and professional. He diagnosed the problem and fixed it. The fireplace is working fine now. Cost was reasonable and we couldn't be happier. Highly recommend him.
Brian A.
May 07, 2017
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Top Hat might provide the greatest chimney sweep and repair service in all of Northern Michigan. I will never know, as the quote/estimate process revealed the proprietor to be quite rude. I had a time-sensitive need, which I explained to him on our first call. I sent him pictures from a home inspection, and received a ball park estimate. The estimate proved to be 2x of what my home sellers received for a stainless steel crown/cap, but I will give benefit of the doubt there. What turned me away was when I asked whether a paper estimate could be provided based on the photos. I've not been
Linda G.
Jul 01, 2016
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Tim has been back to do chimney sweeping and inspections and just recently installed a fireplace in an out building including the chimney through the roof. He was punctual got the job done professionally. He is very serious about safety and fire code.
Mande B.
Dec 11, 2014
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It was a very positive experience working with THCS. We have a universal fireplace that can be either gas or wood and I really wanted to get back to a wood burning fireplace. He worked quickly and the job was very affordable. I highly recommend THCS!