Answers to Common Chimney Questions

Possible signs that a chimney should be evaluated include:

• Cracked, missing or deteriorated mortar
• Loose, chipped or spalling brick
• Water stains near the chimney or fireplace
• Damaged chimney crown, cap or flashing
• Rust on accessible metal components
• Visible leaning or movement
• Falling debris in the firebox
• Smoke entering the living area
• Changes in draft or fireplace performance

These signs do not confirm the cause. A professional inspection can help determine whether the issue involves masonry, moisture entry, the flue, flashing, the crown, the cap or another component.

Chimney leaks may originate from the crown, cap, flashing, masonry, roof connection or another nearby component. Wind-driven rain, snow, ice, open mortar joints, cracked masonry and deteriorated flashing may contribute to water entry.

Because water can travel before becoming visible, a stain inside the home does not always identify the actual source. The chimney and surrounding roof area should be evaluated before repair or waterproofing is selected.

Chimney sweeping is the process of removing accessible soot, creosote and debris from a chimney system within the agreed service scope.

The need for sweeping depends on fireplace use, fuel type, chimney design, burning conditions and the amount of buildup. Sweeping does not replace an inspection when the chimney has visible damage, performance changes or an unknown service history.

An inspection or condition evaluation is generally recommended before repair. Similar symptoms can have different causes, and an inspection can help identify which component requires attention.

For example, water near a fireplace may be related to flashing, the crown, cap, masonry, roof connections or more than one issue. Evaluating accessible conditions helps support a more appropriate repair recommendation.

Chimney Crickets provides masonry-related chimney service based on the condition of the brick, mortar and surrounding components. Potential work may include addressing deteriorated mortar joints, masonry cracks, spalling, open joints or other evaluated concerns.

The appropriate repair depends on the extent of deterioration, moisture exposure, access and the condition of the chimney structure. More extensive damage may require additional evaluation before work is planned.

Submit the Chimney Crickets service request form or call (612) 280-2467. Helpful information includes:

• Property address
• Type of fireplace, chimney or appliance
• Service requested, if known
• Visible damage or symptoms
• Water stains or suspected leaks
• Smoke, odor or draft changes
• Last known inspection or cleaning
• Recent chimney, roof or fireplace work

If you are unsure which service you need, describe the concern rather than trying to diagnose it. Chimney Crickets can help determine an appropriate next step.

Stop using the fireplace and request professional evaluation if smoke enters the home, a carbon monoxide alarm activates, a blockage is suspected, a chimney fire may have occurred, significant debris falls into the firebox or the chimney appears unstable.

If there is an active fire, carbon monoxide emergency or immediate danger, leave the area and contact emergency services.

Photographs may provide useful initial context, but they may not reveal concealed flashing, interior liner conditions, blockages, attachment points or the full extent of masonry deterioration. An on-site evaluation may be needed to determine the cause and appropriate service.

No. Cleaning needs vary according to fireplace use, fuel type, system design, burning conditions and buildup. An inspection can help determine whether sweeping is appropriate.

A chimney crown should be evaluated when it has visible cracks, missing material, staining, deterioration or recurring moisture near the chimney.

The crown is only one possible source of water entry, so the cap, flashing, masonry and roof connection may also need review.

Yes. Damaged, improperly sealed or deteriorated flashing can allow water to enter where the chimney meets the roof.

However, the crown, cap, masonry and nearby roof areas may cause similar symptoms. The likely water path should be evaluated before repair or waterproofing is selected.

Moisture, snow, ice, wind and repeated freeze-thaw cycles can contribute to chimney masonry and component deterioration over time.

Weather is only one factor. Construction, chimney age, materials, maintenance, fireplace use, roof exposure and previous repairs also influence condition.

Chimney odors may be related to creosote, soot, moisture, debris, airflow, animal activity or changes in chimney conditions.

An evaluation can help identify the likely cause and determine whether cleaning, moisture correction, repair or another service may be appropriate.

Stop using the fireplace or connected appliance and request professional evaluation if:

• Smoke enters the living area
• A carbon monoxide alarm activates
• A chimney fire may have occurred
• A blockage is suspected
• Significant debris falls into the firebox
• The chimney appears unstable
• A cap or exterior component may detach
• Strong burning or electrical odors develop
• Flames or unusual heat appear outside the intended firebox area

If there is an active fire, carbon monoxide emergency or immediate danger, leave the area and contact emergency services.

Photographs may provide useful initial context, but they may not reveal concealed flashing, interior liner conditions, blockages, attachment points or the full extent of masonry deterioration.

An on-site evaluation may be needed to identify the cause and determine the appropriate service.

Chimney Crickets offers liner-related evaluation and service. The appropriate inspection depends on the chimney system, fireplace or appliance type, liner design, accessible conditions and reported concern.

Provide the property address, chimney or fireplace type, fuel type, approximate frequency of use, visible symptoms, recent changes and any known inspection or cleaning history.

Photos may also be helpful for initial review, although they may not replace an on-site evaluation.

Depending on the chimney and fireplace condition, homeowners may request:

• Chimney inspections
• Chimney sweeping and cleaning
• Chimney repair
• Masonry repair and tuckpointing
• Crown repair
• Flashing evaluation or repair
• Chimney cap service
• Liner evaluation
• Leak assessment
• Moisture protection or waterproofing
• Related fireplace service

The recommended service depends on the evaluated condition rather than the symptom alone.

Submitting a request does not necessarily confirm an appointment. Chimney Crickets should confirm service availability, scheduling and the appropriate next step for the property.