A quick, safe chimney check before Sharon’s cold months can prevent costly damage and keep your home warm. We’ll show you what to look for—and when to stop and call us at Asheadow Chimney Corp.
Why a Sharon homeowner should inspect their chimney now
Sharon’s winters bring heavy snow, ice, and rapid temperature swings that stress masonry and creosote buildup. A quick self-inspection in early fall catches small issues before they become big, expensive repairs. You’re not replacing a pro’s Level 2 inspection—you’re doing a visual check from the ground and attic to spot obvious trouble. If you see anything concerning, stop and call us at Asheadow Chimney Corp.
Step-by-step: safe ground-level chimney inspection in Sharon
Park safely on Sharon’s quiet side streets. Use binoculars to scan the chimney from the ground for leaning, missing bricks, or white efflorescence (salt stains). Look for cracks wider than a credit card or gaps around the crown. Check the flashing for rust or separation from the roof. If anything looks off, do not climb on the roof—call us at Asheadow Chimney Corp for a closer look. Keep ladders off wet slate roofs common in Sharon’s historic neighborhoods.
Attic and interior signs you can check without climbing
In your attic, shine a flashlight along the chimney chase. Look for daylight through gaps, water stains on framing, or soot trails. Inside, run your hand along the smoke chamber walls—if it’s gritty or sticky, creosote is building up. Check the damper for rust or warping. If you feel heat near the chimney during a fire, stop using it and call us immediately. These are signs a professional inspection is overdue.
Warning signs that mean stop and call a pro
Stop your DIY inspection if you see leaning more than 2 inches, large cracks in the flue liner, or missing chimney cap. Hear a hollow sound when tapping the chimney? That’s delamination—call us right away. Sharon’s freeze-thaw cycles can turn small cracks into major leaks. Do not attempt to patch or seal cracks yourself; improper repairs void warranties and can trap moisture. If you smell gas or see smoke backing into the room, evacuate and call 911, then contact us at Asheadow Chimney Corp.
What Sharon homeowners should never DIY — and why
Never climb onto a slate roof in Sharon’s damp fall weather—slate is slippery and fragile. Do not power-wash your chimney; water forced into masonry cracks accelerates damage. Avoid using DIY chimney cleaning logs without a professional follow-up—some only loosen creosote that can ignite later. Never seal cracks with regular caulk or mortar; only use high-temperature, breathable chimney sealants after a proper diagnosis. DIY repairs often hide problems until they become dangerous or costly.
When to call Asheadow Chimney Corp
If your inspection reveals leaning, large cracks, missing cap, or persistent odors, it’s time for a Level 2 inspection by a licensed pro. Sharon homeowners should also call us if they’re unsure about flue condition, liner integrity, or after a chimney fire or strong storm. We’re certified, insured, and familiar with Sharon’s historic homes and modern builds. Schedule a free estimate at Asheadow Chimney Corp or learn more about our services at our full list of services.
Frequently Asked Questions
My Sharon chimney has white streaks down the bricks—should I worry?
Yes. Those white streaks are efflorescence, a sign water is moving through the masonry. In Sharon’s freeze-thaw climate, this can lead to cracks and spalling. Stop using the chimney and call us at Asheadow Chimney Corp to assess moisture damage and recommend repairs.
Why does my Sharon fireplace smell like campfire even when it’s not in use?
That’s creosote odor seeping into your home. It often means your flue isn’t drafting properly or the cap is missing. Don’t mask the smell with air fresheners—call us to inspect and clean the flue before lighting another fire.
Can I just cover my Sharon chimney with a tarp until I can get it fixed?
No. A tarp traps moisture and accelerates rot. Instead, install a temporary chimney cap or call us at Asheadow Chimney Corp for a proper solution. Improper covers can cause more damage than the original problem.