If your Colorado Springs chimney is misbehaving, start with these safe checks: inspect the damper for blockages, look for cracks in the brickwork, and test for proper draft. But stop immediately if you see soot in the living space or smell gas, those mean call a pro. Older homes and masonry chimneys need extra care, so don’t risk DIY repairs beyond basic visual checks.
Step 1: Check the Damper and Smoke Chamber for Obvious Blockages
Before touching anything, head outside and look up. Open the damper fully and shine a flashlight into the chimney. If you see leaves, bird nests, or debris, that’s an easy fix, use a chimney brush or pole to clear it out. Never stick your hand or head inside. If the smoke chamber (the area just above the fireplace) has visible cracks or mortar crumbling, that’s a sign of wear common in older Colorado Springs homes. Check our masonry repair guide for next steps. If the damper sticks or won’t close properly, that’s a job for a licensed chimney sweep, don’t force it.
Step 2: Inspect the Chimney Crown and Cap for Damage
The crown (the top layer of mortar) and cap (the metal cover) protect your chimney from water and debris. Walk around your home and look for cracks, missing mortar, or rust on the cap. In Colorado Springs’ dry climate, crowns can still degrade over time, especially on older brick chimneys. If you see water stains on the bricks below the crown, that’s a red flag, water is seeping in. A damaged cap or crown won’t stop DIY fixes like sealing small cracks with waterproof mortar, but if the damage is extensive, call a pro. Learn more about crown and cap repairs before attempting fixes.
Step 3: Test for Proper Draft (The Smoke Test)
Light a small piece of newspaper near the fireplace and watch the smoke. If it rises straight up and out the chimney, your draft is fine. If it lingers, rolls sideways, or backs into the room, your chimney isn’t drawing properly. This could mean a blockage, a cracked flue liner, or even a problem with the fireplace itself. Older homes in Colorado Springs often have unique chimney designs, some with multiple flues, that can complicate draft issues. If the draft is weak or nonexistent, don’t ignore it. Book a chimney inspection to rule out dangerous buildup or structural issues.
Red flags: When your DIY chimney work turns into a brickwork disaster
Stop DIYing immediately if you see any of these: soot or smoke in the living space, a strong smell of gas (even when the fireplace is off), or large cracks in the chimney walls. These aren’t just maintenance issues, they’re safety hazards. If your chimney liner is missing, cracked, or rusted through, that’s a code violation in Colorado Springs and a fire risk. Never attempt liner repairs yourself, learn why. Also, if you’ve tried clearing a blockage and the problem persists, or if your chimney is leaking water into the house, call Armadillo Chimney Inc. We serve Manitou Springs, Woodland Park, and Castle Rock, no job is too small or too big for our team.
When to call Armadillo Chimney Inc, before your 1920s masonry liner collapses
You should call us if: your chimney hasn’t been swept in over a year (creosote buildup is a fire hazard), you’re unsure about the condition of your liner or masonry, or you’re planning to use your fireplace for winter. Our team specializes in older homes and brick chimneys, we know the quirks of Colorado Springs’ historic neighborhoods. See our full service list to match your needs. We also offer inspections for homes with gas fireplaces, since those have different risks. Pricing is transparent, no surprises. If you’re in Manitou Springs or the surrounding areas, we’re local and ready to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I try to clean my chimney myself if it’s just a little dirty?
No, even a ‘little dirty’ chimney can hide dangerous creosote buildup. DIY tools like brushes or vacuums won’t reach deep crevices in older brick chimneys, and improper cleaning can damage liners. Leave it to the pros, we use industry tools and safety gear. A professional sweep in Colorado Springs will spot hidden issues like cracks or rust before they become costly repairs.
Is it worth fixing a cracked chimney crown if my home is older?
Yes, but only if the damage is minor. Small cracks can be sealed with waterproof mortar, but large gaps or crumbling mortar mean the crown needs full replacement. Older homes in Colorado Springs often have crowns that’ve deteriorated over decades, a new crown is a small investment to prevent water damage. If you’re unsure, call us for a quick inspection before attempting repairs.
Can a fireplace that lights without smoke still hide a failing chimney system?
Absolutely. A working fireplace doesn’t mean it’s safe. Inspections catch hidden dangers like gas leaks, liner damage, or structural weaknesses. In Colorado Springs, where older homes have unique chimney designs, an inspection ensures your system meets current codes. We offer inspections for wood, gas, and hybrid fireplaces, don’t skip this step, even if your chimney seems fine.