You can take a quick look into the
flue with a good worklight, but
for a thorough inspection, don
googles and a respirator, too.

Inspection

Inspecting a fireplace isn't a particularly difficult job, but it is a dirty one. Wear old clothes (including a hat). Put on a dust mask or respirator and safety goggles.

Browse our inspection tips below.

• Check the firebox for cracks and loosening joints. In a masonry fireplace also check for damage to bricks and mortar. Make minor repairs to firebox joints and cracks using refractory cement; it's designed to handle the extreme heat conditions in a fireplace and it's readily available at fireplace stores.
• Open the damper completely. It should move freely and sit snugly against the throat. Make sure the metal is solid with no cracks, severe pitting, or rusted-through sections. Replacing a damper is not a do-it-yourself job; if the damper is in bad shape, hire a professional to replace it.
• Using a high-powered flashlight or worklight, look up the flue to check for damage. Metal flue liners should be clean and the joints well aligned. Tile or masonry flue liners should be solid and free of cracks. All repairs should be done by a certified professional.
• Make sure the chimney is unobstructed of leaves and other debris that may have fallen into the chimney. Chimneys are also favorite nesting places for birds and squirrels, even if it's only been a few months since the fireplace was last used.
• If you can't see the entire flue from below, you'll have to check from the roof. If you're at all uncomfortable doing this or have no experience working on a roof, hire a professional chimney sweep to inspect and clean the chimney.