Beverly homeowners should schedule a professional chimney sweep at least once per year, ideally before heating season. Between sweeps, simple DIY checks can catch issues early and keep your fireplace safe.
Beverly’s chimney service schedule: what to do and when
Start with an annual professional chimney sweep before the cold hits—Beverly’s damp winters and salty coastal air speed up creosote buildup and masonry wear. If you burn wood regularly, schedule a sweep in late summer or early fall. For gas or oil systems, every other year is often enough, but still inspect annually. Between sweeps, do a quick visual check each month: look for soot or debris in the firebox, and ensure the damper opens and closes smoothly. After heavy storms, especially nor’easters, inspect for cracks or loose bricks on the exterior. Keep a log of these checks; it helps you spot trends and share details with your sweep. Learn more about our full list of services.
Safe DIY checks you can do between professional sweeps
Start by wearing a dust mask and gloves, then open the damper and shine a flashlight up the flue from the firebox. Look for creosote buildup (black, tarry, or shiny deposits), cracks, or obstructions like bird nests. Check the firebox floor for excessive ash; more than an inch can block airflow. Use a fireplace poker to gently probe the damper hinge and flue walls for soft spots—these may indicate water damage. Outside, walk around your chimney and look for leaning, missing mortar, or white efflorescence (salt stains) on bricks. Never climb onto the roof or use tools inside the flue; these tasks require a licensed sweep. For a deeper look, use a phone camera on a selfie stick to inspect the flue from the firebox. See request a free estimate / contact us.
Warning signs that mean stop and call a Beverly chimney pro
If you see thick, black creosote buildup that looks like tar or shiny flakes, call a sweep immediately—this is a major fire hazard. Cracks in the chimney crown or flue tiles, or white efflorescence on bricks, signal water damage that can weaken your chimney. A strong, acrid odor from the fireplace when not in use often means creosote or mold inside the flue. If smoke spills into the room when burning, or if you hear a roaring sound in the chimney, these are signs of blockage or improper drafting. Also, if your damper won’t stay open or closes on its own, the hinge or frame may be damaged. Never ignore these signs—they can lead to chimney fires or carbon monoxide poisoning.
What you should NEVER DIY and why it’s dangerous
Never climb onto your roof to inspect or clean the chimney—Beverly’s steep roofs and wet weather make falls likely. Avoid using chemical chimney cleaners or power tools inside the flue; these can damage liners or release toxic fumes. Don’t attempt to repair cracks in the chimney crown or masonry with regular mortar—specialty chimney cement and proper flashing are required. Also, never ignore a cracked flue tile or liner; these must be replaced by a certified technician to prevent deadly carbon monoxide leaks. DIY repairs can void warranties and may not meet Massachusetts building codes, putting your home and family at risk.
When to call Andrew & Sons Chimney in Beverly
Call us if your chimney shows any warning signs, if it’s been over a year since your last sweep, or if you’re unsure about the condition of your flue or liner. We offer free estimates and can schedule a Level I inspection to check for hidden damage. If you’re buying or selling a home in Beverly, a pre-purchase inspection can prevent costly surprises. We serve Beverly and the entire North Shore, including Salem Andrew & Sons Chimney Now Serving Salem, MA, Danvers Chimney Sweep in Danvers, MA, and Marblehead [[Chimney Sweep in Marblehead, MA|/areas/marblehead-ma/]. Contact us today to get ahead of heating season.
Seasonal prep: get your Beverly chimney ready before winter
In late summer, schedule a professional sweep and inspection to remove creosote and check for storm damage. Clean the firebox and ash pit, then inspect the damper and flue for obstructions. Before your first burn, do a test fire with dry, seasoned wood and watch for smoke spillage or unusual odors. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and ensure your carbon monoxide detector is working. If your chimney has a cap, check it for rust or damage after summer storms. For gas fireplaces, have the venting system checked to prevent backdrafting. These steps help your chimney perform safely all winter long.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does thick, tarry creosote in my Beverly fireplace mean and what should I do?
Thick, tarry creosote is a Stage 3 hazard that can ignite and cause a chimney fire. If you see this in your Beverly home, stop using the fireplace immediately and call Andrew & Sons Chimney for a professional removal. This buildup often forms from burning unseasoned wood or burning fires too cool, common in older Beverly homes with draft issues.
Why does my Beverly chimney smell like campfire even when I’m not using it?
A persistent campfire smell usually means creosote or mold inside the flue, often from damp wood or poor drafting. This is common in Beverly’s humid climate. A professional sweep can remove the residue, and installing a stainless steel liner may help improve airflow and reduce odors.
How can I tell if my Beverly chimney crown is cracked and needs repair?
Look for white efflorescence (salt stains) on bricks or a visible gap between the crown and flue tiles. If water pools on the crown after rain or you see crumbling mortar, call a pro. In Beverly’s freeze-thaw climate, a cracked crown can let water seep in and damage the entire chimney structure.