Glendale’s summer heat and monsoon storms can stress your chimney if it’s not prepped. Start with a visual check and simple cleaning, but know the warning signs that require a licensed sweep to prevent costly damage or safety hazards.
Clear the flue and check the cap
Start by inspecting your chimney cap from the ground. Look for rust, cracks, or debris blocking the mesh. Use a flashlight to peer up the flue from the firebox; if you see a bird’s nest or leaves, carefully remove it with a broom handle—never climb onto the roof yourself. Glendale’s summer storms can drive debris deep into the flue, so a clear cap and flue are your first line of defense against water damage and critters. If the cap is damaged or missing, order a replacement before the monsoon hits.
Inspect the exterior for summer-ready clues
Walk around your home and look for white stains (efflorescence) on the brick or gaps between joints. These are signs of water intrusion that Glendale’s humidity can worsen. Check the crown for cracks and the flashing where the chimney meets the roof—rust or gaps here mean water is sneaking in. If you spot any of these, mark the spots with painter’s tape and schedule a repair before the summer heat sets in. Small cracks now can turn into major leaks during a sudden storm.
Test the draft and clean the firebox
Close all doors and windows near the fireplace, then light a small piece of newspaper and hold it near the damper. The smoke should rise up the flue; if it billows back into the room, your draft is weak. Next, scoop out old ash and debris from the firebox using a metal shovel and a shop vacuum—wear a dust mask and gloves. Never use a household vacuum; fine ash can damage the motor. Leave a 1-inch layer of ash to protect the firebox floor. If the draft feels weak or the ash is caked with creosote, it’s time to call a pro.
Warning signs that mean stop and call a pro
Stop all DIY work if you notice black streaks on the exterior brick (sign of hidden creosote), a strong campfire smell even with the damper closed, or soot falling into the firebox. These symptoms often point to a heavily clogged flue or damaged liner. Also call a sweep if you see cracks wider than a credit card in the crown or if the damper won’t open or close smoothly. Ignoring these signs in Glendale’s humid summers can lead to carbon monoxide leaks or chimney fires. See our full warning list for more details.
When to Call Eric Wong Chimney Inc
If your DIY checks reveal damaged caps, cracked crowns, weak drafts, or heavy creosote buildup, it’s time for a licensed sweep. Eric Wong Chimney Inc specializes in meticulous, white-glove service across Glendale and nearby towns like Cherry Hills Village, Englewood, and Lone Tree. We provide detailed inspections, relining, and repairs with guarantees you won’t find from box-store sweeps. Contact us today to book a summer appointment and protect your home before the monsoon season arrives.
Keep your chimney in top shape all season
After your professional sweep, adopt a simple summer routine: keep the damper closed when not in use to block hot attic air, and inspect the cap after every storm. Avoid burning treated wood or trash, which accelerates creosote buildup. If you use your fireplace occasionally, burn only seasoned hardwood and leave the damper fully open for at least 30 minutes after the fire dies. These habits extend your chimney’s life and reduce the risk of hidden damage. For a seasonal checklist tailored to Glendale, download our free guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Glendale chimney smell like campfire even in summer?
That campfire odor usually means creosote is coating the flue walls. Glendale’s humidity traps these fumes, making the smell stronger in summer. A professional sweep can remove the buildup and install a cap to keep moisture out. Ignoring it risks indoor air quality issues and hidden fire hazards.
What does white staining on my Glendale chimney bricks mean?
White stains are efflorescence, a sign water is leaching through the brick and evaporating, leaving mineral deposits. Glendale’s summer humidity and sudden storms make this worse. It often points to cracks in the crown or failing flashing. Left unchecked, it can weaken the masonry and lead to costly repairs.
Can I clean my Glendale chimney flue with a shop vacuum?
No. While you can vacuum ash from the firebox, never use a household shop vacuum to clean the flue. Fine creosote dust can damage the motor and pose a fire hazard. For safe DIY, stick to exterior checks and firebox cleaning. For flue cleaning, always hire a licensed sweep to avoid hidden risks.