The week before the first cold snap is the worst time to discover a chimney problem. Here's a simple checklist to work through while there's still no rush.
- Schedule your sweep and inspection early. Availability tightens up considerably once everyone else has the same idea in late October. Book your sweep and inspection now rather than waiting.
- Check the damper opens and closes fully. A damper that sticks partway restricts draft and can trap smoke in the room.
- Clear debris from around the cap. Leaves, nests, and summer buildup around the cap can restrict airflow before you even light the first fire.
- Inspect the crown for visible cracks. A quick look from ground level with binoculars can catch damage before winter makes it worse. See warning signs to look for.
- Look for water stains that appeared over the summer. Ceiling or wall stains near the fireplace that you might not have noticed are worth addressing before snow adds to the problem. See leak repair.
- Confirm your wood is properly seasoned. Wood split and dried for at least six months burns cleaner and produces meaningfully less creosote than wood cut this spring.
- Test carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries if it's been more than six months, on every level of the home with a fuel-burning appliance.
- Review basic safety habits before the season gets busy. See our fireplace safety tips.
Most of this checklist takes an afternoon. The sweep and inspection are the only two items that need to go on a calendar — the rest you can knock out yourself this weekend.
