Beverly homeowners with older brick homes should schedule a chimney sweep before the first fire of the season. Fall’s damp air accelerates creosote buildup in unlined chimneys, and the city’s historic masonry hides cracks that let moisture seep into flues. A professional sweep catches these risks before they turn into costly repairs or safety hazards. Book a visit now, our team specializes in Beverly’s older homes and their quirks.
Why Beverly’s Brick Chimneys Need a Closer Look Before Winter
Beverly’s older brick homes often have unlined chimneys, which means creosote, the sticky, flammable residue from wood fires, builds up faster when damp fall air lingers. If you haven’t swept your chimney since last winter, the buildup could be thick enough to choke airflow, or worse, catch fire. Our team sees this most often in homes near Cabot Street or along the harbor, where moisture from salt air seeps into mortar joints. A quick inspection can spot hidden cracks or deteriorating liners before they cause a backup or worse. Learn more about Beverly’s chimney risks here.
3 Quick Things to Check in Your Chimney Now (And When to Call a Pro)
Before scheduling a sweep, check for these red flags: soot stains on the fireplace mantel, a strong smoky smell when lighting a fire, or white powdery residue (creosote) around the damper. If your chimney has a rusted cap or loose bricks near the roofline, that’s a sign moisture is already damaging the structure. For homes with brick fireplaces, also look for cracks in the mortar, these let cold air in and make fires less efficient. If you spot any of these, don’t wait. Our licensed team can assess whether a sweep, liner repair, or masonry work is needed. See our full service list or book a visit to avoid winter surprises.