Thanksgiving Prep: Don’t Forget About the Chimney

You’ve started thinking about your turkey plan and the table setup, but in the rush to prep the meal, one thing slipped through the cracks. Prepping your fireplace and chimney. At Twin City Fireplace, we believe your hearth should enhance the warmth of your home, which means it needs to be in good shape so it doesn’t become an unexpected hazard. 

Why the Chimney Matters Now

Minnesota Thanksgivings mean the chill in the air has fully set in, which also means fires are lighting up the hearth to keep you and your family cozy. However, if your chimney hasn’t received attention since last season or longer, you may be dealing with soot, clogs, or worse. A chimney sweep and inspection ahead of the holiday are among the most important checks that many homeowners often forget. In other words: now’s the time to act if you haven’t yet. A chimney that’s not cleaned and prepped can risk smoke filling your living room, unwanted spread of fire, or messes you don’t want intruding on your day.

Your Holiday-Chimney Prep Checklist

1. Schedule your annual inspection & sweep.

The best time to do this is right before your first fire of the season. This way your flue is clear, the liner is intact, and creosote buildup isn’t out of control.  

2. Clear the chimney cap & exterior.

It’s easy to quickly check to make sure there are no nests, debris, or overhanging branches at the top of the chimney. You can also look inside and up your chimney to ensure nothing is in the path of your fire. 

3. Check your firebox and hearth area.

Remove ash, make sure a proper screen/doors are in place, and clear the area around your fireplace to minimize fire risks.

4. Inspect the surrounding masonry and flashing.

Cracked bricks, deteriorating mortar, or loose flashing can allow water, heat, or smoke to enter your home and cause damage. Even if you can’t fit in a repair before the holidays, be sure to schedule it as soon as possible. 

5. Use safe fire practices during and after the meal.

When you finally get to enjoy the fire, keep flammable decorations away, use seasoned wood, and fully extinguish the fire before bed.

Why This Makes a Difference

Taking care of your chimney before Thanksgiving means fewer unhappy surprises, safer gatherings, and a better holiday experience. A well-maintained chimney works cleanly, smells better, burns more efficiently, and doesn’t threaten to make your party smoky. It’s best to ensure you have plenty of wood prepared for the occasion so you’re not left out in the cold!

Call Twin City Fireplace Today

If you haven’t scheduled your annual chimney inspection or sweep yet, contact Twin City Fireplace in Edina or Woodbury today. Our certified technicians specialize in chimney cleaning, inspections, repairs, and full-service fireplace support for the holidays and beyond. Let us ensure your chimney is safe, efficient, and ready for the season, so you can focus on what truly matters.