Small, consistent upkeep like seasonal inspections and creosote monitoring can add years to your Lakewood chimney’s life while keeping your home safe from fire and carbon monoxide risks.
Check your Lakewood chimney’s exterior before winter hits
Once leaves fall in Lakewood, take 10 minutes to walk around your home and inspect the chimney. Look for cracked or missing bricks, leaning sections, or gaps in the mortar. These are early signs of water damage or shifting foundations common in Lakewood’s freeze-thaw cycles. If you spot anything concerning, snap a photo and call a pro. Avoid climbing on the roof yourself—Lakewood’s elevation and weather make it risky. Instead, use binoculars or a drone if you have one. For a closer look, schedule a professional inspection with our certified team.
Keep creosote buildup under control between Lakewood sweeps
Creosote is a natural byproduct of wood burning that sticks to your chimney’s walls. In Lakewood’s dry climate, it dries into a flaky, tar-like substance that ignites easily. To slow buildup, burn only seasoned hardwood and avoid softwoods like pine. Never use accelerants or burn trash. Once a year, shine a flashlight up the flue from the fireplace to check for a thick, black coating. If it looks like a layer of soot is more than 1/8 inch deep, it’s time to call a Lakewood chimney sweep.
Protect your Lakewood chimney from water year-round
Water is the silent enemy of masonry chimneys, especially in Lakewood’s wet springs and snowy winters. Install a chimney cap with a mesh screen to block debris and animals while allowing smoke to escape. Check the cap after heavy storms—wind can dislodge it. Also, ensure the flashing (the metal seal where the chimney meets the roof) is intact. If you see rust or gaps, call a pro to reseal it. A small leak today can lead to major masonry repairs tomorrow. Learn more about waterproofing on our blog.
Use your Lakewood fireplace the right way to reduce wear
How you burn wood affects your chimney’s lifespan. Always build small, hot fires to minimize creosote and avoid smoldering logs overnight. Use dry, seasoned hardwood like oak or maple—never green or wet wood, which creates more smoke and residue. Keep the damper fully open while burning and for 30 minutes after to allow proper airflow. Close it only when the fire is out to prevent heat and gases from lingering. Over time, these habits reduce stress on your chimney and lower repair risks.
Spot the warning signs your Lakewood chimney needs a pro
Some issues demand immediate attention from a licensed sweep. Watch for smoke backing up into your living room, a strong burning odor even when not in use, or white residue on the exterior bricks (a sign of water damage). Inside, check for soot or debris falling into the fireplace or a draft that pulls cold air downward. If you hear popping or rumbling from the flue, it could indicate a blockage or structural shift. These signs often point to serious hazards like carbon monoxide leaks or chimney fires. Don’t wait—call a certified Lakewood chimney sweep right away.
When to call Johnson Chimney Co for your Lakewood home
We’re here when DIY isn’t enough—or when safety is on the line. If your Lakewood chimney shows cracks wider than a credit card, a leaning structure, or persistent draft issues, it’s time for expert care. Our team handles everything from creosote removal to masonry repairs and waterproofing, all with Lakewood-specific expertise. We also offer free estimates and flexible scheduling for emergencies. Don’t gamble with your home’s safety. Contact us today to book an inspection or discuss repairs. Serving Lakewood and nearby areas like Wheat Ridge, Golden, and Arvada.
Frequently Asked Questions
My Lakewood chimney smells like campfire even when I haven’t used it in weeks. Why is this happening?
That lingering campfire odor usually means creosote or soot has built up inside your flue and is releasing trapped odors. It’s common in Lakewood homes with infrequent use. A professional chimney sweep in Lakewood can remove the residue and install a cap to prevent future buildup.
Why does my Lakewood chimney have white stains on the bricks, and is it serious?
Those white stains are efflorescence, a sign of water seeping through the bricks and evaporating, leaving mineral deposits. While not an emergency, it indicates your chimney is absorbing moisture—leading to cracks and deterioration over time. A certified sweep can assess the damage and apply a waterproof sealant.
Can I use a chimney cleaning log I bought at the Lakewood hardware store instead of hiring a pro?
Chimney cleaning logs can help reduce creosote buildup between professional sweeps, but they’re not a replacement for a thorough inspection. They don’t remove all debris or check for structural issues. For Lakewood homes, we recommend using logs as a supplement—not a substitute—for a Lakewood chimney sweep at least once a year.