Guides
Straight answers to the questions Eastside homeowners actually ask — before the first fire of the season.
How a failing flue liner shows itself, why many 1950s Eastside chimneys are due, what the code says about lining, and what a relining job involves.
August 7, 20267 min read
How to read cracks, moss and missing overhang on a chimney crown, why the Eastside wet season makes them worse, and when sealing is enough.
August 6, 20266 min read
Burn bans, venting, permits and upkeep compared for gas inserts and wood fireplaces in Bellevue, Mercer Island, Medina, Clyde Hill and Issaquah.
August 4, 20267 min read
When worn mortar joints can be repointed, when a brick chimney should be rebuilt, and why earthquake risk on the Eastside changes the answer.
August 3, 20267 min read
How to trace a rain leak around a chimney to the flashing, crown, cap or brick, why south-facing storms matter here, and what a cricket does.
August 2, 20266 min read
What Level 1, 2 and 3 chimney inspections cover under NFPA 211, when an Eastside home needs each one, and what a Level 2 camera scan adds.
August 1, 20267 min read
What to photograph, which inspection to ask for and which records to keep when a chimney is damaged by a storm, a chimney fire or an earthquake.
July 31, 20266 min read
A step-by-step look at a chimney sweep visit on the Eastside: what gets checked, what makes the job longer, and how to read the written quote.
July 30, 20266 min read
Where water repellent fits among the four defenses CSIA recommends, why Eastside winters test brick, and what to fix before any coating goes on.
July 29, 20266 min read
How to tell a harmless surface crack in a fireplace firebox from one that needs repair, what earthquakes do to masonry fireplaces, and when permits apply.
July 28, 20266 min read
How a stuck, rusted or warped fireplace damper shows itself, why damp Eastside winters are hard on it, and when a top-sealing damper is the better fix.
July 27, 20266 min read
What a chimney cap keeps out of an Eastside flue, the code rules for spark arrestor screens, and how to choose between single-flue and full-width caps.
July 26, 20266 min read
What first, second and third-stage creosote look like inside a flue, why damp Eastside firewood speeds them up, and how each stage is removed.
July 22, 20266 min read
The yearly inspection NFPA 211 calls for, when a flue needs sweeping more often, and how Puget Sound burn bans and wet winters shape the schedule.
July 16, 20265 min read
A $99 on-site inspection beats guessing. Book a real open slot and we'll tell you exactly what your chimney needs — in plain English, with photos.
