Aurora’s high-altitude winters and frequent wood-burning demand a licensed chimney inspector to spot hidden hazards like creosote buildup, cracks, or blockages before they spark a chimney fire or carbon monoxide leak. A meticulous inspection by Eric Wong Chimney Inc. includes diagnostic imaging and a 5-year workmanship guarantee, ensuring your system meets NFPA 211 standards and stays safe all season.
1. Creosote buildup in Aurora’s wood-burning fireplaces is a silent fire starter
A chimney inspection is a detailed, systematic examination of your chimney’s interior and exterior to identify hazards before they become emergencies. In Aurora, where many homes use wood-burning fireplaces through fall and winter, creosote—a tar-like byproduct of burning wood—accumulates faster than in milder climates. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) warns that even a 1/8-inch layer of creosote can ignite, and Aurora’s dry winters and high-altitude air draw more oxygen, feeding fires hotter and faster. During a white-glove inspection, we use rotary brushes and diagnostic cameras to measure creosote thickness in your flue, especially critical in older Aurora neighborhoods like Fitzsimons or Tollgate where many homes predate modern chimney codes. If we find 1/8 inch or more, we’ll recommend a sweep before your first burn to prevent a chimney fire that could spread to your attic or roof. services pricing
2. Cracks in masonry chimneys expand with Aurora’s freeze-thaw cycles
Aurora’s climate swings from summer highs near 90°F to winter lows below 20°F, and masonry chimneys absorb moisture that freezes and expands, cracking tiles and mortar joints. A licensed chimney inspector checks for hairline fractures in the flue liner and spalling bricks on the crown—common in Aurora homes built before 2000. Left unchecked, water enters the chimney, rusts the damper, and rots the wood framing around the flue, leading to costly repairs. We document every crack with photos and provide a repair estimate the same day. repair-relining about
3. Blocked chimneys from summer critters are a winter hazard in Aurora
Aurora’s mild summers attract squirrels, raccoons, and birds that nest in uncapped chimneys. By fall, these blockages restrict airflow, forcing smoke and carbon monoxide back into your home. A licensed chimney inspector uses a camera to confirm obstructions and removes nests safely without damaging your flue tiles. We also install or inspect chimney caps—critical in Aurora’s windy areas like Montview Estates—to keep pests out year-round. areas/aurora-co/
4. Draft problems in Aurora homes can mean dangerous backdrafting
A chimney’s draft pulls smoke up and out, but Aurora’s altitude (5,280 feet) and common wind patterns can disrupt this balance, especially in two-story homes or those with long horizontal runs. If your fireplace smells like smoke or you see soot on the hearth, your inspector will measure draft pressure and check for obstructions, improper liner sizing, or a cracked flue. We calibrate draft with adjustable dampers and recommend relining if the flue is too large for your appliance. compare/wood-vs-gas-fireplace/
5. Water leaks in Aurora chimneys cause hidden rot and mold
Aurora’s summer monsoons and winter snowmelt saturate chimney crowns and chase caps, seeping into the masonry and corroding the flue liner. A licensed inspector tests for moisture using a specialized meter and checks the crown for cracks wider than a credit card. We seal small cracks with elastomeric coating and replace damaged crowns on the spot—preventing costly structural repairs down the road. tips/chimney-summer-prep-glendale/
6. Gas fireplace chimneys in Aurora need carbon monoxide testing
Gas fireplaces in Aurora homes must vent carbon monoxide safely, but cracked vent pipes or improper drafting can leak this odorless gas into living spaces. A licensed inspector performs a combustion analysis and checks for spillage at the draft hood, especially in newer Aurora subdivisions like Saddle Rock or Tollgate. We also verify that your gas logs are installed to manufacturer specs to prevent CO buildup. news/why-summer-brings-most-chimney-sweep-calls-glendale/
7. Insurance compliance and home sale requirements in Aurora demand documented inspections
Aurora homeowners with wood-burning fireplaces must prove an annual inspection to maintain homeowners insurance, and buyers often request a chimney inspection before closing. A licensed inspector provides a CSIA-certified report with photos and repair recommendations, ensuring your policy stays valid and your sale closes smoothly. We also offer a 5-year workmanship guarantee on all repairs, giving you peace of mind. contact about
| Service Level | What’s Included | Typical Cost Range | When to Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 Visual Inspection | Camera scan of accessible flue, exterior check, basic report | $120–$180 | Annually for wood-burning fireplaces |
| Level 2 Full Inspection | Camera scan of entire flue, draft test, moisture check, detailed report with photos | $220–$320 | Every 2–3 years or after major weather events |
| Level 3 Inspection with Relining Estimate | Full inspection plus liner assessment, repair estimate included | $350–$550 | If draft issues or visible cracks are found |
| Emergency Inspection | Same-day inspection for suspected leaks, draft failure, or CO alarms | $250–$400 | After storms, strong winds, or CO detector activation |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Aurora fireplace smell like campfire even when it’s not lit?
That campfire odor usually means creosote or soot has built up in your flue and is off-gassing when the weather warms. A licensed chimney inspector will scope your chimney and remove the buildup to eliminate the smell before winter.
What does it mean if my Aurora chimney leaks only during heavy rain?
A chimney that leaks only in heavy rain likely has cracks in the crown or missing chase cap seals. We’ll pressure-test the crown and recommend a quick sealant or cap replacement to stop water intrusion.
Can I burn pine in my Aurora fireplace without damaging the chimney?
Pine burns hotter and faster than hardwoods, increasing creosote buildup in your flue. The EPA’s Burn Wise program recommends burning only seasoned hardwoods in Aurora to reduce emissions and chimney wear.
How often should I schedule a chimney inspection if I use my Aurora fireplace every weekend in winter?
If you burn wood every weekend in Aurora’s dry winters, the CSIA recommends an inspection at least once per year, or more if you notice draft issues or soot buildup on glass doors.