With fall just weeks away, Somerville homeowners are asking: How often should we schedule chimney sweep service? Felix Chimney Company reminds locals that annual sweeping is the safest bet, but certain signs mean you need it sooner—especially before the heating season kicks in.
Most Somerville homeowners get this wrong: ‘My chimney looks clean, so it’s fine’
A quick glance inside your chimney won’t tell you if it’s safe. Creosote, the sticky tar-like buildup from wood fires, hides in cracks and behind flue tiles where you can’t see it. In Somerville’s older homes—especially around Davis Square or near Union Square’s brick row houses—chimneys often have uneven flues that trap creosote. The National Fire Protection Association recommends sweeping when creosote reaches 1/8 inch, but Felix Chimney Company finds many Somerville homes need sweeping even sooner due to local wood types and moisture in the air. Don’t wait for a chimney fire to learn this lesson. Learn more about our full list of services.
When should Somerville homeowners book a chimney sweep before winter hits?
If you haven’t scheduled your chimney sweep yet, now’s the time. Felix Chimney Company is booking appointments across Somerville through October, but spots fill fast—especially in neighborhoods like Teele Square and Winter Hill where many homes still rely on wood heat. Beyond the annual rule, watch for these Somerville-specific signs: a strong campfire smell lingering indoors, soot on your fireplace floor, or smoke that doesn’t draft properly up the flue. These often mean your chimney needs attention before the first frost. We offer free estimates and can often fit you in within a week—just contact us to check availability.