After a storm, check your chimney for loose bricks, cracks, or debris clogging the flue. If you spot damage, call a licensed chimney pro immediately, especially for older masonry chimneys. Never use the fireplace until a professional says it’s safe. The Chimney Safety Institute of America advises a full check after any storm that affects your roof or chimney.
What to Look for When Inspecting Your Chimney After a Storm
A storm in Highlands can bring high winds, heavy rain, or even fallen branches that might damage your chimney. Start by checking the outside of the chimney for: - Loose or missing bricks (common in older Highlands homes with masonry chimneys). - Cracks in the mortar, even small ones can let water seep in and freeze, causing bigger problems in winter. - Debris in the flue, leaves, twigs, or even small animals (like squirrels or birds) can block airflow and create fire hazards. - Damage to the chimney cap, if it’s bent or missing, rain and snow can enter the flue.
Next, inside the house, look for signs of smoke or soot in the fireplace, which could mean poor draft or a blocked flue. If you smell gas or see water stains on the ceiling near the chimney, that’s a red flag. Never ignore these signs, they could lead to carbon monoxide leaks or chimney fires. If you’re unsure, call a chimney sweep in Highlands for a safety check before using your fireplace again.
For a quick self-check, use a flashlight to look up the flue from the fireplace. If you see soot buildup or a dark, narrow passage, that’s a sign you need a professional cleaning. The National Fire Protection Association the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)|https://www.nfpa.org/)) recommends inspecting your chimney after every storm that could have damaged it.
A chimney inspection is a thorough check of your chimney’s structure, flue, and connections to ensure it’s safe to use. After a storm, a professional inspection in Highlands should include:
A chimney inspection is a thorough check of your chimney’s structure, flue, and connections to ensure it’s safe to use. After a storm, a professional inspection in Highlands should include: - Structural integrity, are bricks or mortar damaged? Is the chimney leaning or unstable? - Flue condition, is it clear of debris, or is there creosote buildup that could ignite? - Draft and airflow, does the chimney pull smoke properly, or is it blocked? - Water damage, are there signs of leaks, rust, or water stains inside the house?
In Highlands, where older homes often have masonry chimneys, storms can worsen existing wear. If your chimney is older than 20 years, it’s more likely to have hidden issues. A licensed chimney sweep will also check for animal nests, squirrels and birds love nesting in chimneys, and their debris can clog the flue. If you hear scratching or see droppings near the fireplace, that’s a clear sign you need an inspection.
Cost to consider: A basic inspection in Highlands typically runs $120–$200, depending on the chimney’s height and access. If repairs are needed, costs can vary widely, from $300 for minor fixes to $2,000+ for major relining or reconstruction. Always get a written estimate before agreeing to work. For a full breakdown of what to expect, check our chimney sweep cost guide for Highlands homeowners.
When should you call a chimney sweep after a Highlands storm?
You don’t need to wait for obvious damage to call a chimney sweep. If you notice any of these issues after a storm, schedule an inspection: - Smoke backing into the room when you light a fire, this means poor draft, often caused by a blocked or damaged flue. - Strong odors (like gas or mildew) near the fireplace, this could signal water damage or a gas leak. - Visible cracks in the chimney’s exterior or mortar, even hairline cracks can worsen over time. - Animals or debris in the flue, if you see nests, droppings, or leaves, don’t try to remove them yourself.
Highlands’ coastal climate means humidity and salt air can accelerate wear on chimneys. If your home is near the water (like along Main Street or the Navesink River), your chimney may need more frequent checks. The Chimney Safety Institute of America the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)|https://www.csia.org/)) recommends annual inspections for homes in high-risk areas, especially after storms.
Pro tip: If you’re unsure whether your chimney is safe, don’t use the fireplace. A single chimney fire can cost $5,000–$10,000 in damages, and insurance may not cover it if you ignored warning signs. For a quick, no-obligation check, contact us for a free estimate, we’ll assess your chimney’s condition and recommend next steps.
How to Protect Your Chimney Before the Next Storm
Preventing storm damage starts with regular maintenance and storm prep. Here’s what you can do now: - Install a chimney cap if you don’t have one, it keeps rain, snow, and debris out of the flue. In Highlands, where storms can bring heavy rain, a cap can extend your chimney’s life by years. A basic stainless-steel cap costs $150–$300 and takes about an hour to install. For a professional installation, ask us during your next inspection. - Seal cracks in the masonry, use a waterproof sealant designed for chimneys. This is a DIY-friendly task if the cracks are small, but for larger damage, call a pro. Our guide to waterproofing Highlands chimneys walks you through the steps. - Trim trees near your chimney, fallen branches can dent or crack the chimney. If you have oak or pine trees near your home (common in Highlands’ wooded areas), schedule trimming before storm season. - Schedule a sweep before winter, creosote buildup is a fire hazard, and storms can dislodge loose soot. The EPA’s Burn Wise program the EPA's Burn Wise program suggests cleaning your chimney at least once a year if you use your fireplace often.
If you’re a first-time homeowner in Highlands, don’t skip this step. Many older homes in the area have chimneys that haven’t been maintained in years. A little prep now can save you from costly repairs or a chimney fire later. For more tips on keeping your chimney storm-ready, see our seasonal chimney checklist.
What to Do If Your Chimney Is Damaged After a Storm
If your chimney has visible damage (like large cracks, missing bricks, or a collapsed cap), do not use the fireplace until a professional assesses it. Here’s your next move: 1. Take photos of the damage, this helps with insurance claims and repair estimates. 2. Contact a licensed chimney sweep, never attempt repairs yourself unless you’re a masonry professional. DIY fixes can make damage worse. 3. Check your homeowners insurance, some policies cover storm damage to chimneys, but you’ll need proof of pre-storm condition. Keep records of past inspections. 4. Get multiple quotes, repair costs vary. A minor reline might cost $500–$1,200, while rebuilding a damaged chimney can run $3,000–$10,000+, depending on height and materials.
In Highlands, older homes with brick chimneys (like those near Highlands Avenue or the historic district) often need more extensive repairs. If your chimney is over 50 years old, it may not be worth repairing, sometimes replacing it is safer and more cost-effective. For help deciding, read our guide to repairing vs. replacing a chimney.
Insurance tip: Document everything. If your chimney was damaged in a named storm (like Hurricane Sandy’s aftermath), your insurer may cover repairs. But if the damage was from general wear, you’ll likely pay out of pocket. Always ask your insurer for a pre-storm inspection report to strengthen your claim.
Chimney Sweep Near Me: Why Choose a Local Highlands Pro
After a storm, you want a chimney sweep who knows Highlands’ climate and housing. Local pros understand: - Salt air corrosion. Highlands’ proximity to the coast means chimneys rust faster. We use marine-grade sealants to protect yours. - Older home construction, many Highlands homes have masonry chimneys built in the 1920s–50s. We know how to spot hidden damage in these structures. - Storm-specific risks, we’ve seen the aftermath of nor’easters and tropical storms and know what to look for.
Red flags to avoid: - Sweeps who don’t ask about storm damage, a good pro will inspect for wind or water-related issues. - Companies that won’t provide references, ask for local Highlands homeowners we’ve helped. - Estimates that don’t include post-storm repairs, some sweeps lowball the inspection fee but charge extra for fixes.
What to ask before hiring: - “Do you specialize in storm-damaged chimneys?” - “Will you check for water damage, not just soot?” - “Do you offer warranties on repairs?”
For a licensed, insured chimney sweep in Highlands, we’re ready to help. Schedule your inspection today, get a free estimate and let’s make sure your chimney is storm-proof.
| Issue | What to Do | Estimated Cost | Next Steps |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loose/missing bricks | Call a chimney sweep for repair | $300–$1,200 | Schedule inspection here |
| Cracks in mortar | Seal small cracks yourself; call pro for large ones | $50–$300 (DIY) / $500+ (pro) | See our sealing guide |
| Debris in flue (leaves, nests) | Do NOT remove yourself, call a sweep | $120–$250 (cleaning) | Animals? We’ll check for damage too |
| Smoke backing into room | Stop using fireplace; inspect for blockages | $150–$300 (inspection) | Poor draft? We’ll test airflow |
| Water stains near chimney | Check for leaks; may need relining | $500–$2,000 (relining) | Insurance may cover storm damage |
| Damaged chimney cap | Replace ASAP to prevent water entry | $150–$300 (installation) | We install storm-proof caps in Highlands |
Frequently Asked Questions
My chimney looks fine after the storm, but I’m still worried. Should I still call a chimney sweep in Highlands?
Yes, even if your chimney looks intact, hidden damage (like internal cracks or water leaks) can cause problems later. The Chimney Safety Institute of America recommends an inspection after any storm that affects your roof or chimney, even if you don’t see obvious damage. In Highlands, where humidity and salt air weaken masonry over time, a professional check is the safest move. Contact us for a quick inspection, we’ll give you peace of mind.
Why does my fireplace smell like gas after a storm, even though I didn’t use it?
A gas odor after a storm likely means water got into your chimney or flue, damaging metal parts or mixing with creosote. This can create carbon monoxide dangers or even a gas leak if your chimney connects to a gas line. Act fast, turn off the gas, open windows, and call a chimney sweep right away. Older Highlands homes with gas fireplaces or furnaces are at higher risk. We’ll test for leaks and make sure your chimney is safe before you light it again.
I found a squirrel nest in my chimney after a storm. Can I remove it myself, or should I call a chimney sweep?
You should not remove a squirrel nest yourself, animal debris can clog your flue, and the nest itself might hide structural damage from the animal’s chewing. A chimney sweep in Highlands will safely remove the nest, check for chewed flue liners (a fire hazard), and ensure the chimney is fully clear and sealed. Squirrels and birds often return if the chimney isn’t properly blocked. We use one-way valves and caps to keep them out for good. Schedule a nest removal today.
My Highlands home’s chimney is over 50 years old. Should I repair it or replace it after storm damage?
If your chimney has major cracks, leaning, or extensive water damage, replacing it may be safer, and sometimes more affordable, than repeated repairs. Older masonry chimneys in Highlands often have hidden rot or weak mortar that’s hard to fix permanently. A chimney sweep can assess whether relining (a mid-cost fix) or full replacement is best. For a cost comparison, check our repair vs. replace guide. If your chimney is structurally unsound, replacing it with a modern stainless-steel liner can add decades of safe use.