Chimney Maintenance Checklist: What Homeowners Should Do Every Year

Living in Syracuse and the surrounding areas means your chimney faces some of the toughest winter weather in the country. Heavy snow, freezing rain, and constant freeze-thaw cycles can take a toll on brick, mortar, and chimney caps. By following this yearly maintenance checklist, you can keep your chimney in top condition and ready for another Central New York winter.

1. Schedule a Professional Chimney Inspection

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends a yearly chimney inspection—and with our long heating season in Syracuse, Clay, Baldwinsville, Cicero, and Fayetteville, it’s even more important. A certified technician can spot early signs of damage before they become expensive repairs.

2. Get Your Chimney Swept

If you burn wood during those cold Onondaga County winters, creosote can build up quickly inside your flue. This highly flammable substance is a major cause of chimney fires. A professional chimney sweep in Syracuse or nearby towns like Liverpool and Manlius will remove creosote and debris so your fireplace runs safely.

3. Check the Chimney Cap

Winter storms and high winds off Onondaga Lake can loosen or damage chimney caps. Make sure yours is secure and rust-free to keep out rain, snow, and wildlife. If you notice damage, get it replaced before the next storm.

4. Look for Exterior Damage

Take a walk outside and check your chimney from the ground. In areas like Skaneateles or Jamesville, where homes may be older, it’s especially important to watch for cracked mortar joints, leaning structures, or missing bricks. These issues can allow water infiltration and compromise the structure.

5. Waterproof Your Chimney

Syracuse winters are notorious for repeated freeze-thaw cycles, which can quickly damage unprotected brickwork. A professional-grade waterproof sealant can keep moisture out and extend the life of your chimney.

6. Clear Surrounding Branches

In tree-lined neighborhoods like DeWitt and Camillus, overhanging branches can drop leaves, twigs, and ice into your chimney. Trim them back to prevent blockages and reduce fire hazards.

7. Test Your Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

With so many Syracuse homes relying on fireplaces and wood stoves in winter, safety comes first. Ensure your smoke and CO detectors are working properly and replace batteries before the season starts.

Final Tip for Central New York Homeowners:

Don’t wait until the first snowstorm to find out your chimney has a problem. Schedule your chimney inspection and maintenance in late summer or early fall so you’re ready for another CNY winter.

Serving Syracuse, Clay, Cicero, Baldwinsville, Liverpool, Fayetteville, Manlius, and surrounding towns — Block Solid Masonry is here to keep your chimney safe and ready for the season. Call 315-481-3862 to get started.