There’s nothing quite like a crackling fire on a crisp autumn evening in Montpelier. As the leaves on the oaks and maples along Mountain Road begin to turn, we all start thinking about cozying up to the hearth. But here’s a piece of local wisdom from a seasoned sweep: the moment you feel that first chill in the air is actually one of the worst times to call for a chimney cleaning.
Why? Because every other homeowner from here to Ashland has the exact same idea. Instead of waiting for the fall scramble, let’s talk about the best time to schedule your service, tailored specifically for our life here in Hanover County.
The Sweet Spot: Late Spring & Early Summer (May-July)
This is, without a doubt, the prime time for chimney maintenance in Montpelier, and for a few key reasons unique to our area.
First, there’s scheduling flexibility. In the fall, our phones ring off the hook, and you might wait weeks for an appointment. In late spring, our schedule is wide open. You get to pick a time that’s convenient for you, not just what’s leftover.
Second, our humid Virginia summers. After a long winter of use, your chimney contains soot and creosote. When that combines with the thick, humid air of a Montpelier summer, it can create a foul, musty odor that permeates your home. A spring cleaning removes the source of the smell before it even starts.
Third, it’s the perfect time for a post-winter inspection. Our winters can bring freezing rain and ice storms that are tough on masonry. A spring inspection allows us to spot and repair any damage—like cracked crowns or spalling bricks—long before it becomes a major, expensive problem. We can also safely remove any bird or squirrel nests built during the spring nesting season.
The Procrastinator’s Plan: Late Summer (August-Early September)
If spring got away from you, all is not lost. Scheduling in late summer is your next best bet. You’ll beat the absolute peak rush that starts in late September, but you should still call early in August to secure a good spot. This ensures your fireplace is clean, inspected, and ready to go well before that first surprise cold front rolls through.
A Note for Heavy Burners
Many of us in Montpelier have larger properties and use our fireplaces or wood stoves as a significant source of heat, burning through several cords of local hardwood each season. If this sounds like you, your chimney works harder than most. You accumulate hazardous creosote much faster. For your family’s safety, consider a mid-season inspection in January. It’s a small step that provides immense peace of mind and ensures your system is operating safely through the coldest months.
Don’t wait for the frantic rush. Be proactive. Scheduling your chimney sweep in the “off-season” is the smartest move a Montpelier homeowner can make. It’s more convenient, addresses our specific climate challenges, and keeps your historic or modern home safe and ready for the season ahead.