In Lakewood, service your chimney twice a year, once before winter and once after the holiday season. Between professional sweeps, do simple DIY checks for creosote buildup and cracks. If you spot smoke in the room, strong odors, or damaged masonry, stop using the fireplace and call a professional immediately, never risk carbon monoxide or fire hazards.
Lakewood’s Chimney Service Schedule: The Safe Baseline
For Lakewood homes, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends sweeping your chimney at least once a year if you use it regularly. But with our dry mountain air and high-elevation wood-burning habits, twice a year is safer: once before winter (October–November) and once after the holidays (January–February). If your chimney is used daily or with softwoods (like pine), schedule a sweep every 3–4 months. Check our Lakewood service area to confirm coverage before booking.
3 Quick Safety Checks Lakewood Homeowners Can Do Before Calling a Pro
Between professional visits, perform these non-invasive checks from the fireplace hearth or roof (using a sturdy ladder if needed). Never climb on the chimney or remove the flue liner yourself, those jobs require licensed chimney sweeps. First, light a small fire and watch the smoke: if it backflows into the room or smells acrid, creosote may be blocking the flue. Second, inspect the chimney cap for rust or gaps, replace it if damaged (a loose cap lets rain and critters in). Third, check the firebox and damper for soot buildup; a thin layer is normal, but glossy or tarry residue means creosote is forming. Learn more about creosote risks and when to act.
Danger Signals: When Your Chimney Demands Professional Help Right Now
If you notice any of these, stop using the fireplace immediately and call Johnson Chimney Co. Smoke or fumes in the room during a fire means poor draft flow, likely due to creosote blockage or a cracked flue. Strong, sweet-smelling odors (like tar or gasoline) signal advanced creosote buildup, a fire hazard. Visible cracks in masonry or rust stains on the chimney breast mean moisture damage, which can lead to structural failure. Animals nesting in the chimney (birds, squirrels) create blockages and fire risks. Carbon monoxide alarms activating near the fireplace? That’s an emergency, evacuate, call 911, then contact us. See our emergency contact info for after-hours assistance.
Chimney Tasks You Should Never Attempt Yourself, and the Risks Involved
Some chimney tasks look simple but carry serious risks. Never attempt these: Scraping creosote from flue tiles (it’s toxic and can dislodge harmful debris), removing the inner flue liner (it’s structurally critical), or mortaring bricks yourself (poor work voids warranties and weakens the chimney). Hydro-jetting (high-pressure cleaning) is another no-go, it can shatter flue liners and damage masonry. Even installing a chimney cap incorrectly can trap moisture. Lakewood’s building codes (like the 2021 IRC) require licensed work for repairs, inspections, and sweeps. Compare sweeping vs. inspections to understand what’s legally required.
When to Trust Johnson Chimney Co.: Lakewood’s Fire-Safety Chimney Experts
We’re here for every level of service, from routine sweeps to emergencies. Call us if: Your chimney hasn’t been swept in over a year, you’re switching to pellet stoves (they need specialized cleaning), or you’re selling your home (a Level 2 inspection is often required). Our crew also handles masonry repairs, flue relining, and chimney waterproofing, critical for Lakewood’s freeze-thaw cycles. See our full service menu or check current pricing for transparent quotes. Pro tip: Book your fall sweep in September to avoid the holiday rush. Read our fall prep checklist for a smoother season.
Frequently Asked Questions
My chimney smells like gas even when the fireplace isn’t on. What’s causing this in Lakewood?
That’s creosote gas, a byproduct of burning wood that’s highly flammable and can ignite. Lakewood’s dry air accelerates creosote buildup, especially with softwoods. Never ignore it: This smell means your chimney needs a deep clean and inspection. Learn about creosote risks and schedule a sweep before winter.
Why does my fireplace near Broadway Market push smoke back into the room even with the damper fully open?
This usually means blocked airflow, likely from creosote buildup, a cracked flue liner, or debris in the chimney cap. If the damper is open but smoke lingers, stop using the fireplace and call a pro. See our guide on fireplace safety checks for immediate steps, then book a Level 2 inspection to diagnose the issue.
Found white powder near your fireplace? Is this a hazard in Lakewood’s dry climate?
That’s efflorescence, a salt deposit from moisture seeping through masonry. While not toxic, it’s a warning sign of water damage, common in Lakewood’s freeze-thaw cycles. Don’t scrub it off (it’ll return). Instead, waterproof your chimney and check for cracks or missing mortar. See our waterproofing guide to prevent further damage.