Summer is the perfect time for Malden homeowners to tackle easy chimney maintenance tasks that prevent fires, carbon monoxide risks, and costly repairs. Learn what you can safely do yourself—and when to call the licensed pros at Eds Brothers Chimney.
Clear debris and inspect from the ground in Malden’s summer breeze
Stand safely on the ground with binoculars or a camera to check your chimney crown and flue for debris like leaves, twigs, or even a rogue soccer ball from nearby Callahan Park. Use a sturdy broom to gently clear the crown if it’s accessible, but never climb onto the roof yourself. If you spot cracks or missing mortar, note them for a professional inspection. Malden’s summer humidity can hide moisture damage, so take photos to compare later. For deeper issues like a blocked flue, call Eds Brothers Chimney at contact to schedule a Level 1 inspection before fall.
Check your chimney cap and screen to keep critters and rain out
A damaged or missing chimney cap invites squirrels, raccoons, and even Malden’s notorious skunks into your flue. Use a flashlight to inspect the cap from the ground; if it’s bent, rusted, or missing, replace it with a secure, spark-arresting model. Ensure the mesh screen isn’t clogged with summer pollen or dust. A clogged cap can trap moisture, leading to rust or mold inside your chimney. If you’re unsure about installation, our team at Eds Brothers Chimney offers cap repairs and replacements—just contact for a free estimate.
Test your chimney’s draft before the first fall fire
On a calm Malden evening, light a small piece of newspaper and hold it near the open damper. If the smoke rises steadily up the flue, your draft is working. If it billows into the room or smells strongly of creosote, your chimney may need cleaning or repairs. Never ignore a weak draft—it’s a sign of blockages or buildup that could trap deadly carbon monoxide. For a thorough draft test and safety inspection, book a Level 1 or Level 2 inspection with Eds Brothers Chimney services.
Seal gaps around the chimney to block pests and water
Malden’s older homes often have gaps between the chimney and roofline where water and pests sneak in. Use a high-temperature silicone caulk to seal small cracks around flashing, but avoid DIY masonry repairs—these require specialized materials and techniques. If you see widespread mortar deterioration or crumbling bricks near your chimney, it’s time to call a pro. Eds Brothers Chimney specializes in tuckpointing and masonry restoration to protect your home’s structure and your family’s safety blog/tuckpointing-masonry-restoration-malden-ma-mortar-failure-si/.
Warning signs your Malden chimney needs a professional now
Stop all DIY work and call a licensed chimney sweep immediately if you notice: thick creosote buildup (dark, tarry, or shiny deposits), white efflorescence (salt stains) on bricks, a strong campfire smell even when the fireplace isn’t in use, or visible cracks in the flue liner. These signs indicate fire hazards, carbon monoxide leaks, or structural failures. Malden’s humid summers accelerate deterioration, so don’t wait until fall. Eds Brothers Chimney offers emergency inspections—contact today to schedule.
When to call Eds Brothers Chimney: honest signs you need the pros
Some jobs are too risky or complex for DIY. Call Eds Brothers Chimney if your chimney is over 10 years old, if you’ve never had a professional inspection, or if you’re unsure about creosote levels. We handle everything from Level 1–3 inspections and creosote removal to liner repairs and tuckpointing. Serving Malden and nearby towns like Everett areas/everett-ma/ and Medford areas/medford-ma/, we’re your local experts. Book a free estimate today contact or explore our pricing guide pricing to plan ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
My Malden chimney smells like campfire even in summer—why does this happen and what should I do?
That campfire smell is creosote, a flammable byproduct of wood burning that lingers in your chimney. Malden’s humidity traps moisture, worsening the odor and buildup. A professional cleaning from Eds Brothers Chimney removes creosote and restores fresh air. Schedule a Level 1 inspection contact to check for hidden blockages or cracks causing the smell.
Why does my chimney liner matter for my Malden home’s safety?
Your chimney liner protects your home from heat transfer to combustible walls and prevents deadly carbon monoxide leaks. If it’s cracked or missing, as seen in many Malden’s older homes, it’s a fire and health hazard. Eds Brothers Chimney installs stainless steel liners to code—blog/chimney-liner-installation-repair-malden-ma-stainless-steel/ or call us to assess yours.
Can I clean my chimney with a DIY chimney brush kit from the hardware store?
A basic brush kit can remove light soot, but it won’t safely or effectively clear creosote buildup or inspect for hidden damage. Malden’s chimneys often hide cracks, nests, or deteriorating mortar that require professional tools and expertise. For your safety and to protect your warranty, trust Eds Brothers Chimney for thorough cleaning services.