Before you call a chimney sweep, scan for loose soot, clogs, or smoke blowing back into your home, quick checks you can do safely. But if you detect gas odors, see cracks in the flue, or hear loud whooshing sounds, halt any DIY work and contact Johnson Chimney Co right away. Safety isn’t optional.
Step 1: Quick, Safe Chimney Checks Every Lakewood Homeowner Should Try First
First, shut off your fireplace and let the chimney cool down completely before inspecting it. From a safe distance, inspect the chimney cap for damage, missing or bent caps let rain, animals, or sparks in. Use a flashlight to check the smoke chamber for soot buildup or debris. If you see creosote (a black, tar-like substance), note its stage: sticky glaze (Level 2) or hard, crusty (Level 3) means it’s time for a professional chimney sweep. Lakewood’s dry climate speeds creosote buildup, so if it’s been months since your last sweep, prioritize this. Learn more about creosote risks here.
Step 2: Testing for Blockages (Without Climbing the Roof)
Light a small fire and observe how the smoke travels up the chimney. If it backflows into the room or smells like gas, your flue is blocked, likely by creosote, debris, or animal nests. Never poke the chimney with tools; this can dislodge dangerous obstructions. Instead, close the damper and relight the fire. If smoke still doesn’t draft upward, call a chimney sweep. In Lakewood’s older homes, flue blockages are common due to aging masonry. See how inspections differ from sweeps to know what’s really needed.
Step 3: When Your Chimney Sends Danger Signals: Time to Call a Professional
If you notice cracks in the masonry, rust on the damper, or soot staining on walls/ceilings, these signal structural or ventilation failures. Smoke that won’t draft or strong odors of gas mean carbon monoxide (CO) risk, never ignore this. Lakewood’s high elevation and windy conditions worsen CO leaks. Other red flags: roaring flames (a sign of poor airflow), white smoke (unburned fuel), or animals nesting in the chimney (seen near Belmar Park). Review our local repair signs before attempting fixes.
Step 4: Chimney Tasks That Are Risky DIY Projects (And Why You Should Avoid Them)
Avoid cleaning creosote yourself, it’s flammable and toxic. Never use a shop vac or leaf blower to clear debris; sparks can ignite creosote. Don’t remove the chimney cap unless you’re trained, it’s a fire hazard. Masonry repairs require mortar knowledge; DIY patches often fail in Lakewood’s freeze-thaw cycles. Carbon monoxide detectors can’t replace a chimney inspection. See our DIY safety guide for what’s truly safe, and what’s a liability.
When to Trust Johnson Chimney Co for Your Lakewood Home’s Fireplace Safety
If your chimney shows any of the warning signs above, or if you’re unsure, call us. We handle creosote removal, flue inspections, and masonry repairs safely and code-compliant. Lakewood’s building codes require annual inspections for gas fireplaces, we’ll verify yours. Our crew is CSIA-certified and insured, so you’re covered. Book an inspection today or check our service areas if you’re near Golden, Wheat Ridge, or Arvada. Compare repair vs. replacement costs to make the right choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
My Lakewood fireplace smokes heavily when I light it, is this normal?
No, heavy smoke means poor draft or a blocked flue. Check for obstructions (like bird nests) or creosote buildup. If the issue persists, your chimney may need re-lining or a sweep. Lakewood’s dry air worsens draft problems, don’t use the fireplace until it’s inspected. Learn about local chimney inspections.
Why does my chimney still smell like gas when the fireplace isn’t in use?
A gas smell means CO risk, stop using the fireplace immediately. This could be from a cracked flue liner or improper gas connection. Never DIY gas lines; call Johnson Chimney Co for a safety inspection. Lakewood’s older homes often have hidden gas leaks. See our CO testing guide for next steps.
Can I install a chimney cap myself in Lakewood to stop animals?
No, improper installation can worsen draft issues or void warranties. A custom-fit cap requires measuring the flue diameter and securing it to code. Lakewood’s windy conditions demand sturdy materials. See our cap installation guide, then call us for a pro job.