With Lakewood’s dry autumn winds already kicking up, now’s the time to check your chimney. A single missed sweep can leave creosote buildup or cracks unnoticed, until smoke backs into your home or a spark ignites a fire. We’re seeing more emergency calls this time of year for homes that skipped spring maintenance. If you’ve used your fireplace even once since last fall, call us before the leaves change. Our Lakewood team offers free estimates and same-week appointments for existing customers contact.
3 Chimney Sweep Warning Signs Lakewood Homeowners Miss
Most Lakewood homeowners wait until they see smoke in the room to act, but by then, the damage is done. Here’s what to watch for before you light another fire: 1) A strong, acrid smell when the fireplace is cold. That’s creosote, a flammable tar that builds up faster in Lakewood’s dry climate. 2) Soot stains on the fireplace glass or walls after just a few burns. 3) Your fire burns low or smolders instead of roaring, meaning poor draft flow from blockages. If you spot any of these, don’t wait. Our crew clears creosote in one visit and can spot hidden cracks or rust that DIY tools miss. For a quick check, see our Lakewood’s Applewood neighborhood service page or call us directly.
When to Sweep vs. Inspect: Lakewood’s Fall Timeline
Here’s the hard truth: If you haven’t swept since last fall, do it now, before Thanksgiving weekend when every Lakewood chimney sweep books up. But if your chimney is older than 20 years or you’ve never had it serviced, add a Level 2 inspection to your sweep. We’ve found hidden issues in Lakewood’s older homes (especially near the foothills) that turned a $120 sweep into a $1,500 repair bill. Pro tip: If your chimney’s never been lined or you burn wood often, schedule both. See our sweeping vs. inspection guide for what each covers. Pricing starts at $109 for a basic sweep in Lakewood, book before October 15 to lock in our early-fall rate pricing.