Winter Chimney Prep in Lakewood: 4 Critical Steps to Avoid Carbon Monoxide Risks

By Scarlet Chimney Inc Team · Updated October 30, 2026

To avoid carbon monoxide risks, Lakewood homeowners should prioritize annual chimney inspections and sweeps, especially before winter, to ensure a safe and efficient burning season

Myth: A Chimney Inspection is Only Necessary for Old Homes in Lakewood

A chimney inspection is a detailed check of your chimney system to find any potential problems and make sure it is working properly. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)|https://www.csia.org/)) recommends having your chimney inspected every year to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and chimney fires. In Lakewood, where the cold winters and low humidity can exacerbate chimney problems, regular inspections are especially important. Our team at Scarlet Chimney Inc. offers comprehensive inspections and sweeps, including a detailed report of our findings and recommendations for repairs. We also provide free estimates for all our services, so you can plan and budget with confidence. For more information on our inspection process, visit our chimney inspection guide

What Lakewood Homeowners Get Wrong About Chimney Sweeping on Belmont Street

Many Lakewood homeowners believe that they only need to sweep their chimney if they use it frequently, but this is a common misconception. Even if you do not use your chimney often, it can still get dirty and cause problems because creosote and soot can build up over time. In fact, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)|https://www.nfpa.org/)) says that all chimneys should be inspected and swept at least once a year, no matter how often they are used. Our team offers affordable and efficient chimney sweep services to help you stay on top of maintenance and avoid costly repairs. We also provide a chimney maintenance 101 guide to help you understand the importance of regular maintenance

Step 1: Schedule a Professional to Sweep Your Chimney Before the Heating Season

The first step in preparing your chimney for winter is to schedule a professional sweep. Our team at Scarlet Chimney Inc. uses specialized equipment and techniques to remove creosote and soot from your chimney, ensuring a safe and efficient burning season. We also offer pricing guides to help you understand the costs involved and plan your budget. For more information on our sweeping process, visit our chimney sweep services page. Also, you can check our blog for tips and guides on how to maintain your chimney and avoid common problems

Step 2: Inspect and Repair Your Chimney Crown

The chimney crown is the cement or mortar that seals the top of your chimney, and it can be prone to cracking and damage. Inspecting and repairing your chimney crown is crucial to preventing water damage and ensuring a safe and efficient burning season. Our team offers chimney repair services to help you fix any issues with your chimney crown. We also provide a chimney care calendar to help you stay on top of maintenance and avoid costly repairs. For more information on our repair process, visit our about us page

Water damage is a common problem in Lakewood chimneys, especially during the winter months when snow and ice can accumulate on the roof. To prevent water damage, it's essential to inspect and repair your chimney crown regularly. Our team offers waterproofing services to help you protect your chimney from water damage. We also provide a glossary of chimney terms to help you understand the different components of your chimney system and how to maintain them

Step 3: Install a Chimney Cap or Spark Arrestor

A chimney cap or spark arrestor is a device that fits over the top of your chimney to prevent sparks and embers from escaping and causing fires. Installing a chimney cap or spark arrestor is an essential step in preparing your chimney for winter, especially in areas prone to wildfires like Lakewood. Our team offers chimney cap installation services to help you protect your home and community. We also provide a news page with updates on local chimney safety and maintenance. For more information on our installation process, visit our contact page

Step 4: Practice Safe Burning Habits

Finally, practicing safe burning habits is crucial to preventing carbon monoxide poisoning and chimney fires. This includes burning only dry, seasoned wood, keeping your chimney clean and clear of debris, and never leaving a fire unattended. The EPA's Burn Wise program offers tips and guidelines for safe and efficient wood burning. Our team at Scarlet Chimney Inc. is committed to helping you stay safe and warm during the winter months. We also provide a tips page with guides on how to maintain your chimney and practice safe burning habits. For more information on our services, visit our services page

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