A Lakewood chimney upgrade isn’t just about looks, it’s about keeping your home safe, running efficiently, and dodging expensive repairs. Begin with a full inspection, then choose between simple fixes or full professional work based on your home’s needs. With Lakewood’s changing seasons, early prep prevents last-minute winter headaches.
Start with a Lakewood-Specific Chimney Inspection: What to Check Before Upgrading
Before spending money on upgrades, confirm your chimney’s current condition. Lakewood’s mix of dry summers and wet winters means moisture damage is common. Use a flashlight to inspect the flue for cracks, rust, or soot buildup, especially near the smoke chamber. Check the masonry for loose bricks or mortar crumbling from freeze-thaw cycles. If you spot efflorescence (white powdery deposits), that’s a sign of water intrusion. For the chimney cap, look for warping or gaps where rain could enter. Take photos and note any damage, this helps professionals assess upgrades faster. If your chimney is over 20 years old, structural weaknesses may already be present, making upgrades riskier without a pro’s input.
Safe DIY Prep: 3 Things Lakewood Homeowners Can Do Themselves
Not all upgrades require a pro. If your chimney is structurally sound, these steps can prep it for better performance: 1. Clean the cap and crown: Remove debris with a stiff brush and wire brush. A clogged cap reduces draft and traps moisture, both problems worsen in Lakewood’s damp fall air. 2. Seal minor cracks in the crown: Use a high-temperature chimney sealant (like 3M Ultra Seal) for cracks under 1/8 inch. Larger gaps need professional repair to prevent water damage. 3. Check the damper: Ensure it opens and closes smoothly. A stuck damper forces smoke into your home and wastes heat. Lubricate with a silicone-based spray if needed. Stop here if you see rust, sagging bricks, or creosote buildup thicker than 1/4 inch. These are red flags for deeper issues.
Red Flags: When Your Chimney Demands a Pro: Not a Weekend Fix
Some problems look minor but hide serious risks. Call Navy Chimney Co immediately if you see: - Soot or creosote buildup blocking more than 25% of the flue. Scraping creosote yourself can knock loose dangerous chunks and spark a chimney fire. - Cracked or missing flue tiles. These fail under Lakewood’s seasonal temperature swings, leading to carbon monoxide leaks. - Sagging or leaning masonry. Masonry repairs require specialized mortar and tools, poor work voids warranties and weakens the structure. - Rust on the damper or smoke chamber. This means moisture is already damaging metal parts, accelerating corrosion. Never attempt repairs above the roofline or inside the flue. Falls from ladders and improper cleaning tools cause hundreds of injuries yearly, and Lakewood’s older homes have hidden dangers like asbestos in mortar.
Upgrading Smart: What Lakewood Homeowners Should Consider Before Spending
Upgrades like stainless steel liners or gas fireplace conversions can save money long-term, but only if your chimney can handle them. Ask yourself: - Is my chimney structurally sound? A pro inspection (like our Lakewood chimney inspection guide) confirms this before any upgrades. - What fuel type am I switching to? Wood, gas, or pellet stoves require different clearance requirements and flue materials. See our wood vs. gas comparison to avoid costly mistakes. - Are there local Lakewood codes? Some neighborhoods (like those near Belmar Park) have stricter rules on chimney height and materials. Our team knows the 2021 IRC updates for Denver County. Pro tip: If your home is over 30 years old, upgrades may need historical approval, check with Lakewood’s Building Safety Division before starting.
When to Call Navy Chimney Co: Lakewood’s Trusted Experts for Upgrades
You should call us for upgrades when: - Your chimney has visible damage (cracks, rust, or missing sections) that DIY fixes can’t address. - You’re switching fuel types (e.g., wood to gas) or adding a new fireplace, we handle liner installations and code-compliant conversions. - You want to extend your chimney’s life with restoration work (like tuckpointing or repointing mortar) before winter’s freeze-thaw cycles hit. - You’re unsure about local Lakewood permits or want a warranty-backed installation. We serve Lakewood and nearby areas like Wheat Ridge, Golden, and Arvada, with same-day inspections for urgent issues. See our service areas to confirm coverage. No pressure, no upsells, just honest advice to keep your home safe. Schedule a consultation to discuss your upgrade goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I upgrade my chimney cap before winter in Lakewood, or is a DIY fix enough?
If your cap is warped, rusted, or missing sections, upgrade it before Lakewood’s first freeze. A DIY cap (like a stainless steel mesh cap) can work for minor damage, but custom-fit caps from a pro seal better against rain and debris. Our Lakewood cap installation guide covers when to DIY vs. call us, especially if your chimney is over 15 years old.
Is it worth upgrading my chimney liner now, or should I wait until I notice problems?
If your liner is cracked, corroded, or over 10 years old, upgrading now prevents carbon monoxide leaks and chimney fires, both major risks in Lakewood’s older homes. A new liner also improves efficiency by 15-20%. See our liner guide for signs yours needs replacing. Waiting until you see smoke in the room is too late.
Do I really need a professional to inspect my chimney before upgrading, or can I trust my own eyes?
You can spot obvious damage (like large cracks or rust), but hidden issues, such as internal flue blockages or asbestos in mortar, require a pro. Lakewood’s older homes (built before 1990) often have unlabeled materials, and DIY mistakes can void warranties. Our inspection guide explains what to look for, and when to stop guessing. Safety first: if you’re unsure, call us.