Beverly’s coastal winters demand chimneys in peak condition. Simple, safe habits like seasonal checks and minor upkeep can add years to your chimney’s life and prevent costly emergencies before they start.
Seasonal chimney prep: what Beverly homeowners can do now
Before the first frost hits Beverly’s historic neighborhoods, walk your property and clear debris from the chimney base and roof. Check for nests or leaves blocking the flue—especially near the Hamilton Street corridor where trees drop early. Use binoculars to spot obvious cracks or leaning bricks on the crown. If you see anything concerning, snap photos to share with your sweep. This 10-minute inspection keeps small issues from becoming big (and expensive) problems when the heating season arrives. Learn more about our full list of services.
Safe DIY maintenance between professional sweeps
Between sweeps, keep your chimney clean and safe by using a fireplace grate to improve airflow and reduce creosote buildup. Burn only seasoned hardwood—avoid softwoods like pine that spark more and create excess creosote. After each use, let the fire burn down completely and cool before closing the damper. Keep a mesh screen in place to catch embers. Never use flammable liquids to start a fire. These simple habits reduce wear on your chimney and improve efficiency, especially in older Beverly homes with original masonry. See request a free estimate / contact us.
How to spot warning signs before they become emergencies
Watch for white, chalky stains on bricks near the roofline—this can signal water damage from a cracked crown or missing cap. A musty smell in the living room, especially near the hearth, often means moisture is seeping into the flue. If you notice smoke backing up into the room when the fire is lit, or hear a roaring sound from the chimney, these are urgent signs to call a pro immediately. In Beverly’s older neighborhoods, these issues can escalate quickly due to salt air corrosion and aging masonry. Explore about our team and credentials.
What you should NEVER DIY and why
Never attempt to clean the flue yourself with brushes or chemicals—Beverly’s chimneys often have hidden damage or deteriorated liners that can collapse under pressure. Avoid climbing onto the roof to inspect the crown or cap unless you’re trained and equipped; steep pitches and salt corrosion make falls common. Do not seal cracks with regular mortar or caulk—special refractory cement is required to withstand heat and weather. DIY repairs can void warranties and create safety hazards that put your family at risk.
When to call Andrew & Sons Chimney
If you see cracked bricks, missing mortar, or a damaged crown during your seasonal walk, it’s time to call Andrew & Sons Chimney. If you smell smoke indoors when the fireplace is lit, or notice white stains or efflorescence on the chimney exterior, don’t wait—these are signs of water damage or blockages that require professional attention. Even if you’ve done regular DIY maintenance, a certified sweep can spot hidden issues like liner cracks or creosote glaze that DIY tools miss. Schedule a Level I inspection before peak season hits Beverly’s busiest neighborhoods.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does white staining on my Beverly chimney mean and is it urgent?
White staining is efflorescence, a sign of water seeping through cracked mortar or a damaged crown. In Beverly’s salty coastal air, this can corrode bricks and liners quickly. It’s not an emergency yet, but it’s a warning sign you should address before winter. Call a pro to inspect the crown and mortar joints—especially if staining appears near the roofline or near the intersection of Route 127 and Elliott Street where salt exposure is high.
Why does my Beverly fireplace smell like mildew even when I don’t use it?
A musty smell in your living room near the hearth usually means moisture is trapped in the flue or smoke chamber. Beverly’s humid summers and damp autumns can cause condensation inside the chimney, leading to mold and odors. Running a small fan near the damper or using a dehumidifier in the room can help temporarily, but a professional inspection is needed to find and fix the source—often a cracked flue liner or missing chimney cap.
Can I burn cardboard or wrapping paper in my Beverly fireplace to clean it out?
No. Burning cardboard, wrapping paper, or trash can send embers up the flue and coat the interior with sticky creosote, increasing fire risk. Beverly’s older chimneys are especially vulnerable to creosote buildup, which can ignite and cause a dangerous chimney fire. Stick to seasoned hardwood and use kindling to start fires. If you’re trying to reduce creosote between sweeps, burn hot, fast fires occasionally to help clear buildup safely.