The Homeowner’s Chimney Maintenance Guide

The One Rule That Matters Most

If you remember nothing else, remember this: have your chimney swept and inspected once a year, and burn the right fuel. Almost every chimney problem we are called to fix traces back to one of those two things being neglected. Everything below supports that core habit.

Late Summer to Early Fall: Before the First Fire

This is the single most important window, and it is why sweeps get busy in September and October. Before you light the first fire of the season:

• Schedule your annual professional sweep and inspection. The flue needs to be clear of the summer’s cobwebs, debris and any animal nests.
• Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace the batteries.
• Look up at the chimney from the yard. Check that the cap is in place and the crown has no obvious large cracks.
• Open the damper and shine a flashlight up. You should see daylight and no obvious blockage.

During the Burning Season: Burn Smart

How you burn determines how fast creosote builds up. Through the winter:

• Burn only seasoned hardwood that has dried for at least six months to a year. Wet or green wood smolders, which produces far more creosote.
• Never burn trash, cardboard, treated lumber or wrapping paper. They burn dirty and can damage the flue.
• Give the fire enough air. A hot, bright fire burns cleaner than a smoldering one.
• Let ashes cool completely, then remove them, leaving about an inch in the firebox to help the next fire.

Spring: Close Out the Season

When you are done burning for the year:

• Clean out the firebox and check the glass doors and gasket on an insert or stove.
• Close the damper to keep conditioned air in and animals out.
• Watch for the first signs of water: stains on the ceiling near the chimney, a musty smell, or white staining on the exterior brick. Spring rains reveal leaks that winter hid.

What You Can Do vs. What a Pro Should Do

You can handle the easy, visible maintenance: testing detectors, cleaning the firebox, burning good fuel and watching for warning signs. Leave the rest to a professional. Sweeping a flue correctly, inspecting a liner for cracks, judging creosote type and repairing masonry all require training, equipment and a close-up view of parts of the chimney you cannot safely reach. A yearly professional visit is the backbone that makes your own maintenance worth doing.

Ready for your annual visit? See what our inspection covers, read the warning signs to watch for, or call (630) 604-2660.