Catching chimney issues early can save you costly repairs and keep your Bloomington home safe. Learn the safe checks you can do yourself and the warning signs that mean it's time to call a pro like Desert Tan Chimney Co.
Start with a safe visual check from the ground
Stand back from your chimney and use binoculars if needed to spot obvious issues. Look for leaning bricks, cracks in the masonry, or missing mortar joints—especially after Bloomington’s harsh winters. Check the chimney cap for damage or rust, as a missing or broken cap lets water, debris, and even critters into your flue. Also scan for white, chalky stains (efflorescence) on the exterior, which signal water damage. If you see any of these, stop and call us for a professional inspection. Never climb onto the roof yourself—Bloomington’s roofs are steep and often icy in winter.
Test your damper and flue before the first fire of the season
Your damper should open and close smoothly. If it sticks or won’t stay open, it may be warped from heat or rust. Next, light a flashlight and shine it up the flue from the fireplace opening. You should see daylight at the top—if not, the flue may be blocked by debris or creosote buildup. You can also use a fireplace poker to gently tap the flue liner (if visible) to check for hollow sounds, which may indicate cracks. If the damper is stuck or the flue feels blocked, do not use the fireplace. Schedule a chimney inspection before lighting any fires.
Watch for smoke and odor clues inside your Bloomington home
If you notice smoke spilling into the room when using your fireplace, it’s a clear sign of a drafting problem. Musty or sour odors near the fireplace often mean moisture is entering the flue—common in Bloomington’s humid summers. A sharp, acrid smell could indicate creosote buildup, which is highly flammable. If you smell gas or burning plastic, evacuate and call 911 immediately. These are not DIY fixes. Instead, open windows for ventilation and contact us right away to diagnose the issue.
Know the warning signs that mean stop and call a pro
Some problems are too risky for DIY. Call a professional immediately if you see: cracks wider than a credit card in the chimney crown or flue liner, bulging or leaning sections, or excessive creosote buildup (thick, tarry, or shiny deposits). Also, if your chimney has been hit by a falling tree or shows signs of animal nests blocking the flue, do not attempt to remove debris yourself. These conditions can lead to chimney fires or carbon monoxide poisoning. Bloomington homeowners should never ignore these signs—our certified team can assess and repair safely.
What you should NEVER attempt to DIY on your Bloomington chimney
Never climb onto your roof to inspect or clean the chimney—Bloomington roofs are often steep, slippery, and unsafe in winter or after rain. Avoid using chemical chimney cleaners sold in stores; they can damage masonry or liner materials and may not fully remove hazardous creosote. Do not attempt to repair mortar joints with regular mortar—chimney mortar must withstand high heat and requires a special mix. Also, never ignore a chimney fire or carbon monoxide alarm. These are medical and fire emergencies. Always evacuate and call 911 first, then contact us for a full inspection.
When to call Desert Tan Chimney Co. in Bloomington
If you’ve spotted any warning signs or aren’t sure what you’re seeing, it’s time to call a pro. Desert Tan Chimney Co. offers free estimates and certified inspections for Bloomington homes. We use specialized tools and cameras to check flues, liners, and masonry without risk to you. Our team is licensed, insured, and familiar with local building codes and climate challenges. Whether you need a sweep, repair, or full inspection, contact us today to schedule. Don’t wait until winter—peak season fills up fast in Bloomington. View our full service list to see how we can help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best time of year for a Bloomington homeowner to check their chimney?
Early spring or late summer is ideal. After a long heating season, creosote and soot buildup are at their worst. Checking in late summer lets you address issues before fall, avoiding peak demand. Avoid winter—Bloomington’s cold and snow make roof access dangerous and inspections less accurate.
Can I clean my chimney myself using a wire brush from the hardware store in Bloomington?
No. Store-bought brushes often don’t match your flue size or type, leaving dangerous creosote behind. Bloomington chimneys vary widely in shape and condition. A professional uses the right tools, safety gear, and knows how to remove creosote safely without damaging the liner. DIY cleaning risks injury and incomplete removal.
My chimney smells like mildew after a Bloomington summer storm—is that normal?
No. A musty smell usually means moisture is trapped in the flue or masonry. Bloomington’s humid summers and heavy rains can cause this. Left unchecked, it leads to mold, rust, and structural damage. A chimney sweep can install a cap or liner to prevent water entry. Don’t mask the odor with air fresheners—address the source.