Denver summers are perfect for quick chimney checks that keep your system safe and efficient. Simple visual inspections and minor upkeep can prevent costly repairs, but know your limits—some jobs require a licensed pro.
Check your chimney cap and crown for Denver’s summer storms
Before the afternoon thunderstorms roll in, climb a sturdy ladder (or use binoculars) to inspect your chimney cap and crown. Look for cracks, rust, or missing pieces—especially after hail season. A damaged cap lets debris and critters into your flue, while a cracked crown lets water seep into the masonry. Replace a missing cap immediately; it’s a cheap fix that prevents bigger damage. If you see cracks wider than a credit card, call a pro before the next storm hits areas/denver-co. Learn more about our full list of services.
Clear debris from the flue and smoke chamber safely
Turn off your fireplace and let everything cool. Use a bright flashlight to peer down the flue from the firebox. If you see leaves, pine needles, or small branches, remove them with a fireplace brush or a shop vac (use a HEPA filter to avoid spreading soot). Never climb onto the roof or use a pressure washer—both are dangerous and can damage the flue. If the debris is packed tight or you smell mustiness, it’s time for a professional inspection blog/denver-chimney-inspections-types-costs-when-to-schedule/. See request a free estimate / contact us.
Inspect the flashing and seal around your Denver chimney
Denver’s freeze-thaw cycles can crack the seal between your chimney and roof. From the ground (or a safe ladder), look for gaps, peeling caulk, or rusted flashing. Small gaps can be sealed with high-temperature silicone caulk, but if the flashing is bent or rusted through, call a pro. Improper sealing leads to leaks that rot rafters and damage ceilings—far costlier than a quick repair compare/repair-vs-replace-chimney/. Explore about our team and credentials.
Test your damper for smooth operation and tight seal
A damper that sticks or won’t close fully wastes energy and lets pests in. Open and close it a few times to check for smooth movement. If it’s stiff, apply a graphite-based lubricant (never WD-40). If it won’t stay open or won’t seal shut, the hinge may be broken—replace it or call a pro. A poorly sealed damper drains your wallet in heating bills and invites Denver’s summer humidity indoors tips/thinking-about-upgrading-your-chimney-in-denver-read-this-fi/. For details, see the areas we serve.
Look for warning signs that mean stop DIY and call a pro
Stop all DIY work if you see white efflorescence (salt stains) on the bricks, a strong campfire smell even when cold, or soot falling into the firebox. These signs point to hidden damage, water leaks, or dangerous creosote buildup. Also, if your chimney leans, bricks are loose, or mortar is crumbling, don’t climb on the roof—call a licensed sweep immediately. Ignoring these signs risks fire, carbon monoxide leaks, or structural failure services/.
When to call Anthony Brown Chimney Inc
If your Denver chimney shows any of the warning signs above, or if you’re unsure about cracks, leaks, or performance, it’s time for a professional. Anthony Brown Chimney Inc offers transparent pricing, fast scheduling, and honest advice—no upsells. We serve all Denver metro areas, from Englewood to Thornton, and provide free estimates. Don’t wait for winter—call us today to book an inspection or cleaning before the rush contact/.
Frequently Asked Questions
My Denver chimney smells like campfire even when I haven’t used it—why is that happening?
That campfire smell usually means creosote buildup inside the flue. Denver’s dry summers can make creosote harder and more stubborn, but it’s still a fire hazard. A professional cleaning removes the residue and restores airflow. If the smell lingers after cleaning, there may be hidden moisture damage—call a pro to inspect the liner and masonry blog/7-signs-your-denver-chimney-needs-repairs-before-winter-hits/.
Why does my chimney in Golden keep leaking after every summer rain?
Golden’s summer storms can expose cracks in the crown or damaged flashing that weren’t visible before. Even small gaps let water in, and Denver’s freeze-thaw cycles expand them over time. Seal visible cracks with high-temp caulk, but if leaks persist, the damage may be inside the chimney structure. A professional inspection with a camera can spot hidden leaks before they rot your flue areas/golden-co.
Can I clean my Arvada chimney myself using a shop vac and a brush?
You can remove loose debris with a shop vac and a chimney brush, but that’s not a full cleaning. Creosote, especially in older Arvada homes, often sticks to the flue walls and requires rotary cleaning tools and proper ventilation. DIY cleaning risks spreading soot indoors and missing dangerous buildup. For a safe, thorough job, hire a CSIA-certified sweep—we offer fair pricing and fast service compare/diy-vs-professional-chimney-cleaning/.