Most chimney emergencies we see in January and February trace back to something that could have been caught in October. Here's what's worth checking before Maine's first real cold snap of the season.
Early fall — before the first cold night pushes everyone to light a fire at once — is the easiest time to get an appointment and the smartest time to catch problems before you're relying on the chimney daily. See how often you actually need a sweep if you're not sure whether this is your year for a full sweep or just an inspection.
Confirm the cap is present, not crushed or dislodged from a storm, and that the mesh isn't packed with debris. A missing or damaged cap lets in rain, snow melt, and animals looking for winter shelter — see our cap installation page and animal removal page if either applies.
A damper that doesn't seal fully lets warm conditioned air escape up the flue all winter, and one that's stuck shut is a safety hazard the first time you light a fire without checking. Both are quick to test and worth doing before your first fire of the season.
Firewood should be seasoned to below roughly 20% moisture content — unseasoned "green" wood is one of the biggest drivers of fast creosote buildup (see creosote buildup dangers). Store wood off the ground, covered on top but with airflow on the sides, ideally split and stacked for at least six months before burning.
A blocked, cracked, or poorly drafting chimney can allow carbon monoxide to enter the home instead of venting outside. Test CO detectors near sleeping areas and replace batteries at the same time you do your fall chimney check — a single habit covers two safety items at once.
Behind on your fall prep? It's not too late — we can typically get a sweep and inspection scheduled the same week, even mid-season. Call (000) 000-0000.
Call or text (000) 000-0000 to schedule your pre-season sweep and inspection.
Call (000) 000-0000