Colorado Springs’ older brick homes hide chimney dangers behind beautiful masonry. Skipping sweeps, ignoring creosote buildup, or DIYing repairs can turn a cozy fireplace into a fire hazard. Start with these safe checks, and know when to call a pro.
3 Basic Checks for Your Chimney You Can Do Safely: Before Calling a Pro
Before calling a chimney sweep, do these three quick, safe tasks to spot trouble early. 1. Check the damper: Open it wide and watch for rust spots, bent metal, or built-up soot. A stuck damper forces smoke into your home. 2. Check the chimney cap: Stand on a ladder (use stabilizers!) and confirm the cap isn’t cracked or missing. 3. Test for drafts: Light a match near the fireplace opening, if smoke rises straight up, your draft is fine. If it lingers or reverses, call a pro. Learn more about chimney safety checks here.
When Your Chimney Shows These Warning Signs, Call Armadillo Chimney Inc: Don’t Guess
If you spot these red flags, stop DIY fixes and contact us right away for a proper fix. Creosote buildup: Glossy black or tarry deposits thicker than 1/8 inch mean your chimney needs sweeping, now. Smoke in the room: If smoke backs up into your home, your flue may be blocked or damaged. Cracks in brickwork: Hairline cracks in mortar or bricks signal structural weakness, especially after Colorado Springs’ freeze-thaw cycles. Rust on damper or liner: Rust spreads fast in our dry climate and can compromise metal components. See our full warning signs guide.
Why DIY Chimney Work on a 1920s Masonry Home Near Garden of the Gods Can Backfire
Some chimney work is a fire hazard or violates building codes. Never climb on the roof to inspect or repair, fall risks and brickwork damage are real dangers. Don’t use chemical cleaners in your flue; they corrode liners and create toxic fumes. Avoid DIY liner repairs unless you’re a mason; improper installation can trap carbon monoxide. Skip mortar repointing without training, old brick chimneys in Colorado Springs need precise techniques to prevent leaks. Need a pro? Book a visit, we handle repairs safely and code-compliant.
How Often Should You Sweep? Colorado Springs’ Answer Depends on Your Fireplace
Wood-burning fireplaces need sweeping twice a year (fall and spring), but gas fireplaces still require annual checks for lint buildup. If you burn pine, oak, or untreated wood, schedule sweeps more often, these woods create thick creosote faster. Older homes with clay tile liners (common in pre-1980s builds) need extra attention. See our sweeping schedule guide. Pro tip: After a chimney fire, never use the fireplace again until a sweep confirms it’s safe.
When to Call Armadillo Chimney Inc: Your Go-To for Old-Home Chimney Work
We’re here for repairs, inspections, and peace of mind. Call us if: Your chimney hasn’t been swept in over a year, you hear cracking or popping sounds during burns, animals nested inside (yes, it happens in Colorado Springs attics), or your home’s warranty requires professional maintenance. We serve Manitou Springs, Woodland Park, and Castle Rock, and specialize in older brick homes. Get a quote today or ask about our services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I replace my old chimney liner if it’s cracked but still works?
Yes, cracked liners let carbon monoxide into your home. In Colorado Springs’ dry climate, even small cracks worsen fast. A stainless steel liner (our top recommendation) costs less than $1,500 and prevents fires. Compare repair vs. replace options, we’ll inspect yours for free.
Is it worth upgrading my chimney cap in Colorado Springs’ windy winters?
Absolutely. A heavy-duty stainless steel cap with a spark arrestor blocks debris, reduces downdrafts, and lasts 20+ years. Our clients in Parker and Highlands Ranch see 30% better drafts after upgrades. Learn about cap repairs.
Does my fireplace look fine? Here’s why you still need a chimney inspection.
Yes, hidden dangers like blocked flues or deteriorating mortar aren’t visible from below. Colorado’s building codes require inspections before selling a home, but even renters should check annually. See our inspection guide, we catch issues before they become emergencies.