Signs You Need a Chimney Sweep

Not sure if your chimney needs a sweep? These seven signs mean it is time to book a cleaning or an inspection before you light another fire. If you spot more than one, do not wait, creosote buildup and blockages are the leading causes of chimney fires.

7 signs you need a chimney sweep

• A strong campfire or barbecue smell coming from the fireplace, even when it is not lit. That odor is creosote.
• Smoke comes back into the room when you light a fire, a sign of poor draft from buildup or a blockage.
• Soot, debris or black flakes falling into the firebox, which often means creosote is flaking off the flue.
• A black or shiny tar-like coating inside the flue. Glazed creosote is highly flammable and needs professional removal.
• The fire is hard to start or keep going, or it burns weakly, a clue the chimney is not drafting properly.
• Animals, nesting material or leaves in the chimney, common when there is no cap. This blocks the flue and is a fire and carbon-monoxide risk.
• Soot stains or white efflorescence on the masonry around the fireplace or on the exterior chimney, a sign of moisture or venting problems.

What to do next

If any of these sound familiar, book a chimney sweep and a Level 1 inspection. A sweep will remove the creosote, clear blockages, and flag any masonry or liner repairs. Not sure how often to do this? See how often you should sweep a chimney, or check what a chimney sweep costs in DuPage County.