When fall arrives in Colorado Springs, fireplace use spikes, but so do hidden chimney dangers. You can spot obvious issues like cracked mortar or rusted dampers yourself, but if you see heavy creosote buildup, it’s time to call Pelican Chimney LLC before cold weather locks you in. DIY checks are fine for surface problems, but structural risks need expert eyes.
Step 1: Inspect Your Chimney Cap and Crown (No Tools Needed)
Start by checking your chimney cap and crown from the ground or a sturdy ladder. Look for missing or damaged caps, these let rain, snow, and debris into your flue, accelerating wear on brickwork. A cracked crown (the top layer of mortar) can let moisture seep into your masonry, weakening it over time. In Colorado Springs’ dry climate, even small cracks can become bigger problems when winter freezes and thaws cycle. If the cap is loose or the crown shows deep cracks, this is a warning sign to call a pro. For a full inspection, schedule a visit with Pelican Chimney LLC’s licensed team. See our service list page.
Step 2: Check for Creosote Buildup (Use a Flashlight and Mirror)
Creosote is the thick, black residue that coats chimney walls when wood doesn’t burn fully, a common issue in older brick chimneys. In older Colorado Springs homes with brick chimneys, thick creosote buildup is a fire hazard and can clog your flue. Grab a flashlight and a small mirror to peer up the chimney from the fireplace opening. If you see more than a thin, glossy layer, it’s time for a professional cleaning. Never attempt to scrape creosote yourself, it’s highly flammable and can release toxic fumes. Learn more about creosote risks in our guide on chimney safety for Colorado Springs homeowners. Background in get in touch for a free estimate.
Step 3: Test Your Damper and Flue (Safe DIY Check)
A stuck or rusted damper is a common issue in older homes. Open the damper and check for smooth movement, if it’s stiff or corroded, moisture is likely present, which can damage your flue liner. For a quick flue test, light a small piece of newspaper near the fireplace opening. If smoke billows out instead of rising straight up, your flue may be blocked or damaged. This is a clear sign to call a professional. Pelican Chimney LLC specializes in repairing dampers and inspecting flues in Colorado Springs’ historic brick chimneys. Full details in who we are and how we train page.
DIY LIMITS: When to Pause and Call Pelican Chimney LLC for Your Chimney
If you notice any of these during your inspection, do not attempt further DIY work, these are red flags for serious risks: Cracks in brickwork wider than 1/8 inch, rust or corrosion on metal components, soot or smoke in your home, or animals nesting in the chimney. Older Colorado Springs homes often have masonry that’s already stressed by decades of weather, ignoring these signs can lead to structural failure or carbon monoxide leaks. For a full safety inspection, contact Pelican Chimney LLC’s team, who serve Colorado Springs and surrounding areas like Manitou Springs and Woodland Park. Take a look at the towns we cover.
When to Call Pelican Chimney LLC (Your Local Experts)
You should call a licensed chimney sweep if: Your chimney hasn’t been cleaned in over a year, you’re burning more wood than usual, or you’ve noticed drafts or strange smells. Pelican Chimney LLC’s team is trained to handle Colorado Springs’ unique mix of older brick chimneys and modern liners. We’ll inspect for hidden damage, clean safely, and recommend repairs before winter locks you out. Get a free estimate today or browse our services for Colorado Springs homeowners.
Frequently Asked Questions
My Colorado Springs home has a brick chimney, how often should I check it myself?
For older brick chimneys in Colorado Springs, inspect the cap, crown, and damper twice a year: once in fall before fireplace season and again in spring. If your home is in a high-wind area like near Garden of the Gods, check more often, wind can accelerate wear on masonry. For a deeper inspection, our team covers Colorado Springs and nearby towns like Black Forest and Cimarron Hills.
I see small cracks in the mortar between bricks, should I fix them myself?
No. Small cracks in mortar can seem harmless, but in Colorado Springs’ freeze-thaw cycles, they’ll worsen quickly. Repointing mortar requires specialized tools and knowledge to match your chimney’s original materials. A professional can also check for hidden damage behind the bricks. Pelican Chimney LLC repairs mortar and brickwork in historic Colorado Springs homes, contact us for a safe solution.
My fireplace smells like gas even when it’s not lit, what does this mean?
This is a critical warning: if your chimney smells like gas or you see soot stains on the ceiling, your liner may be damaged, letting carbon monoxide into your home. CO is invisible and deadly, shut down the fireplace right away and call a pro. Our crew covers Fort Carson and Security-Widefield; we’ll diagnose and fix liner failures safely.