Newport’s Trusted Chimney Sweep for First-Time Homeowners

Schedule it before your first fire. Even if the previous owners claimed it was “just inspected,” coastal chimneys age differently due to salt corrosion and seasonal use. A Level 2 inspection (required for home sales) catches hidden cracks or creosote that could ignite during your first Newport winter.

Level 1 is the standard visual check inside and out; Level 2 includes a video scan of the entire flue and is required if you’ve had a chimney fire, structural change, or sale of the home. In Newport, where many homes are historic, we recommend Level 2 every 5 years to spot salt-induced deterioration.

Absolutely. We look for cracked masonry, deteriorating mortar joints (common in older Newport homes), and creosote levels that could spark a chimney fire. We also check the damper and smoke chamber—often overlooked parts that directly affect safety and draft efficiency.

Start with a Level 2 inspection to confirm the flue is clear and intact. Then, burn only seasoned hardwood (avoid pine or driftwood, which sparks more and leaves sticky creosote). Open the damper fully before lighting and keep a screen in place to catch embers—especially important with Newport’s ocean winds.

If your chimney is over 20 years old or shows white efflorescence (salt stains) on the exterior, the liner may be compromised. We’ll video-inspect the flue; if the liner is cracked or missing, we’ll recommend a stainless-steel liner—critical for safety in coastal climates where moisture and heat cycles cause rapid deterioration.

Yes—it’s from algae or mold growing in the damp flue, fed by coastal humidity. A thorough cleaning and installing a chimney cap with a screen (to block seagulls and debris) usually solves it. We also recommend a stainless-steel liner, which resists moisture absorption better than clay tiles.

No—driftwood is salty and wet, creating thick, acidic creosote that coats your flue and can corrode metal parts. Stick to kiln-dried hardwood like oak or maple, stored under cover in a dry Newport garage or shed to maintain proper moisture content.