When you’re living in Edwards, Colorado—just half a mile from the Edwards River Park—you know that your chimney isn’t just a luxury. It’s essential for surviving those long, cold winters at 7,200 feet of elevation. I’m Adam, and I’ve been serving Edwards and the Eagle River Valley for years now, and I can tell you that mountain chimneys face unique challenges that Denver or Front Range chimneys never see.
The temperature swings here are brutal. One day it’s 50 degrees, the next you’re waking up to single digits and two feet of fresh powder. That freeze-thaw cycle? It’s murder on masonry. The altitude affects the draft differently. The drier air means creosote builds up faster. And let’s not even talk about what happens when a family of raccoons decides your unused summer chimney looks like prime real estate.
Why Edwards Chimneys Need Specialized Attention
Living in Edwards means you’re probably burning wood more than folks down in the valley. Natural gas prices fluctuate, and there’s something irreplaceable about a real wood fire when you’re watching snow pile up on the deck. But that increased use means increased wear, increased creosote buildup, and increased risk.
I’ve seen chimneys in Edwards that look fine from the ground but are one good fire away from disaster. The crown cracks from freeze-thaw cycles, water gets in, and suddenly you’ve got spalling bricks by spring. Or the flue liner develops cracks you can’t see, and carbon monoxide starts leaking into your living space instead of venting outside where it belongs.
Our Edwards Chimney Services: What We Actually Do
Let me walk you through what we offer, because “our services” isn’t just marketing speak. It’s what I personally guarantee every time my team shows up at your door.
Chimney Inspection and Cleaning
Starting at $199, our inspection and cleaning service is the foundation of everything else. Here’s what that includes:
| Service Component | What We Check | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Visual Inspection | Crown, cap, flashing, masonry | Identifies apparent damage before it becomes expensive |
| Interior Video Scan | Flue liner condition, creosote buildup, blockages | Catches hidden problems that cause house fires |
| Damper Check | Seal quality, operational function | Poor dampers waste hundreds in heating costs annually |
| Clearance Verification | Distance to combustibles, proper ventilation | Code compliance prevents insurance issues |
| Draft Test | Smoke draw, airflow patterns | Ensures gases exit properly, not into your home |
After the inspection, we sweep everything clean. I’m talking about removing all that Stage 1, 2, or 3 creosote (the really nasty glazed stuff that won’t come off without specialized tools). We use professional-grade brushes and a HEPA vacuum system, so your house stays clean while we work.
“I’ve been doing this for over a decade, and I still see homeowners shocked when I show them what came out of their chimney. A quarter-inch of creosote can ignite at 451°F. Your fireplace gets hotter than that every single time you use it.” – Adam
Chimney Repair Services
Chimney repair in Edwards isn’t the same as repair work in milder climates. The materials we use have to withstand extreme temperature variations, and the techniques have to account for seasonal expansion and contraction.
Masonry Repair and Brick Tuckpointing
Brick tuckpointing is probably our most common repair in Edwards. The freeze-thaw cycle destroys mortar joints, and once water gets behind the brick face, the damage accelerates rapidly.
| Repair Type | Average Cost Edwards Area | Timeline | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minor Tuckpointing | $800-$1,200 | 1-2 days | Repointing 20-50 sq ft, matching mortar color |
| Major Tuckpointing | $2,500-$4,500 | 3-5 days | Full chimney repoint, weather seal application |
| Brick Replacement | $150-$300 per brick | Varies | Matching brick, mortar work, and seal |
| Chimney Crown Repair | $600-$1,800 | 1-2 days | Crown coat or complete rebuild, depending on damage |
| Flashing Replacement | $400-$900 | Half day | New metal flashing, proper seal tothe roof |
The labor costs here reflect mountain work. Getting materials to Edwards, especially in winter, increases costs. We’re also working at altitude, which affects cure times for mortar and sealants. A job that takes 24 hours to cure at sea level might need 36-48 hours here.
When I’m working on a chimney crown, I use a specific mix designed for freeze-thaw cycles. Standard crown coat products crack within a season at this elevation. The products we use cost more but last 15-20 years instead of 5-7.
Chimney Cap and Chase Cover Installation
If you don’t have a proper chimney cap, you’re inviting problems. I’ve pulled out everything from bird nests to full-grown raccoons from Edwards’ chimneys. The cap keeps animals out, prevents rain and snow from entering, and blocks embers from escaping during use.
| Cap Type | Price Range | Best For | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Galvanized Steel | $150-$250 installed | Budget-conscious, temporary solution | 5-8 years |
| Stainless Steel Single Flue | $300-$500 installed | Most residential chimneys | 20-30 years |
| Stainless Steel Multi-Flue | $600-$1,200 installed | Larger chimneys, multiple flues | 20-30 years |
| Copper Custom | $800-$2,000+ installed | High-end homes, aesthetic preference | 50+ years |
| Chase Covers (Stainless) | $400-$800 | Prefab fireplaces | 25-35 years |
We stock several cap styles, including adjustable safety caps and custom multi-flue caps, which work well for larger Edwards homes with multiple fireplaces.
For homes with prefab fireplaces (which are common in newer Edwards construction), a proper chase cover is critical. The original builder-grade covers rust out in 7-10 years here. We replace them with stainless steel that’ll outlast the house.
Firebox Repair and Restoration
The firebox takes the most abuse of any part of your fireplace system. Direct flame contact, thermal cycling from ambient to 1000°F+ and back to ambient, sometimes multiple times per day in Edwards winters—that’s harsh treatment.
Common Firebox Issues in Edwards:
- Cracked Firebrick: Develops from thermal cycling
- Average repair cost: $400-$800
- Involves removing damaged bricks, fitting new refractory brick,and high-temp mortar
- Timeline: 1 day plus 24-48 hour cure time before use
- Deteriorated Refractory Panel: Common in prefab units
- Average replacement cost: $300-$600 per panel
- Must use manufacturer-specific panels for safety
- Timeline: Half-day installation, 24-hour cure
- Damaged Firebox Floor: Usually from direct log contact
- Average repair cost: $250-$500
- May require a new firebrick base or refractory concrete
- Timeline: 1 day plus cure time
- Smoke Chamber Repair: Water damage or structural issues
- Average cost: $800-$2,000
- Complex work requiring parging or relining
- Timeline: 2-3 days, depending on the extent
Chimney Lining Services
Chimney lining is absolutely critical to safe operation, and I take it very seriously. An intact liner is the only thing standing between toxic combustion gases and your living space.
| Liner Type | CostCost Linear Foot | Total Cost (20′ chimney) | Best Application | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stainless Steel Rigid | $45-$65 | $900-$1,300 + labor | Straight runs, gas appliances | 15-25 years |
| Stainless Steel Flexible | $35-$55 | $700-$1,100 + labor | Offset chimneys, wood burning | 15-25 years |
| Aluminum Flexible | $25-$35 | $500-$700 + labor | Gas only, not suitable for wood | 10-15 years |
| Cast-in-Place | $75-$125 | $1,500-$2,500 + labor | Damaged masonry chimneys | Lifetime |
Labor Costs: Installing a liner is skilled work. In Edwards, expect to pay $800-1,500 for labor, depending on chimney height, accessibility, and complexity. A 25-foot chimney with two 90-degree offsets takes significantly longer than a straight 15-foot run.
We typically recommend stainless steel for Edwards homes. It handles the temperature swings, works with wood or gas, and lasts long enough that you won’t need to think about it again for 20+ years.
Fireplace Installation and Gas Insert Services
Sometimes repair isn’t enough. Maybe you’ve got an old masonry fireplace that’s inefficient as a heating source, or you want to convert to gas for convenience. That’s where our fireplace installation and gas insert services come in.
Gas Insert Installation Breakdown:
| Component | Cost Range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Gas Insert Unit | $2,500-$6,500 | Quality units like the Kingsman Gas Fireplace Insert |
| Liner Kit | $400-$800 | Aluminum flexible liner for gas venting |
| Gas Line Extension | $300-$800 | If the existing gas line isn’t nearby |
| Electrical Work | $150-$400 | For blower and ignition systems |
| Labor | $800-$1,500 | Professional installation, 1-2 days |
| Permits | $50-$150 | Eagle County requirements |
| Total Project | $4,200-$10,000 | Depends on complexity and unit choice |
“Last winter, I installed a gas insert for a couple just off Highway 6, right by the elementary school. They were spending $400/month on propane to heat their 2,400 sq ft home. The insert cut that by 60%. It paid for itself in three winters, and now they’ve got zone heating they can control with a remote. That’s the kind of improvement that makes sense in Edwards.” – Adam
Dryer Vent Services
This isn’t technically chimney work, but dryer vent cleaning is something we do because it uses similar tools and prevents house fires. In Edwards, where homes are often built into hillsides, dryer vents can run 25-30 feet, with multiple elbows. That’s a recipe for lint buildup and potential fire.
- Standard Dryer Vent Cleaning: $150-$250
- Complex Run Cleaning: $200-$350
- Vent Repair/Replacement: $300-$600
We recommend annual dryer vent cleaning if you do more than 4-5 loads per week, or at least every 2 years, regardless of use.
Wildlife Removal
Animal removal is something I do more in Edwards than anywhere else I work. The wildlife here is persistent. Raccoons, squirrels, chimney swifts (the way protects them, so removal has to wait until they naturally migrate), bats, and occasionally even owls.
| Service | Average Cost | What’s Involved |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Removal | $200-$400 | Remove nest/animal, clean area, install cap |
| Complex Removal | $400-$800 | Multiple animals, damage repair, and extensive cleaning |
| Prevention (Cap Installation) | $150-$500 | A proper cap prevents future issues |
| Sanitization Service | $150-$300 | Disinfect after animal occupation |
We use humane methods. Usually, that means waiting for the animal to leave naturally (they don’t stay in chimneys 24/7), then installing a cap before they return. In some cases, we’ll install a one-way door that lets them out but not back in.
Labor Costs and Hidden Expenses
Let me be straight with you about what drives costs in Edwards. It’s not just the work itself—it’s everything around it.
Labor Rate Breakdown:
| Work Type | Hourly Rate | Why This Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Sweep/Inspection | $95-$125/hour | Licensed, insured, CSIA certified |
| Masonry Repair | $100-$150/hour | Specialized skill, mountain conditions |
| Liner Installation | $125-$175/hour | Complex, safety-critical work |
| Gas Fitting Work | $100-$140/hour | Licensed gas work, permit requirements |
Hidden Costs You Should Know About:
- Travel: Edwards is 2+ hours from our leading shop in Aurora. We don’t charge extra for Edwards’ service calls, but that drive time is built into scheduling. We batch Edwards jobs when possible to keep costs down.
- Permits: Eagle County requires permits for most chimney work beyond basic cleaning. That’s $50–$ 150, depending on the work type. We handle that process, but the cost passes through.
- Weather Delays: Mortar and crown coat won’t cure properly below 40°F. If we’re halfway through a job and the temperature drops, we have to stop and reschedule. This rarely adds cost, but it extends timelines.
- Material Transport: Some specialty items aren’t stocked locally. We might need to order specific brick colors, custom liner sizes, or specialty caps. Shipping to Edwards adds 10-20% to material costs.
- Access Challenges: Many Edwards homes are built on slopes, making access limited. If we need scaffolding or special equipment to reach your chimney safely, that adds $200-$500 to the job.
A Real Edwards Customer Story
Let me tell you about a job from last fall. I got a call from a homeowner on Miller Ranch Road, about three-quarters of a mile from the Eagle Valley Library. They’d just bought the house—beautiful property, mountain views, but the home inspection flagged the chimney.
When I got there, here’s what I found:
- The chimney crown had a 3-inch crack running the full width
- Water had been entering through that crack for at least two winters
- The freeze-thaw cycle had caused spalling on 15-20 bricks
- The damper was rusted partially open (goodbye, heating efficiency)
- There was about 1/4″ of Stage 2 creosote throughout the flue
- And—this was the kicker—there were two distinct raccoon nests in the smoke chamber
The previous owner had clearly not maintained this chimney in years. Maybe they rarely used it. Perhaps they didn’t know better. But this was a disaster waiting to happen.
The Work We Did:
- Complete sweep and cleaning – $199
- Raccoon nest removal and sanitization – $350
- Chimney crown rebuild – $1,200
- Tuckpointing and brick replacement – $2,400
- Damper replacement – $400
- Stainless steel cap installation – $450
- Flashing inspection and minor repairs – $300
Total Project: $5,299
Was it expensive? Yes. Was it necessary? Absolutely. That crack in the crown was allowing water into the masonry. Give it one more winter, and they’d be looking at $15,000-$20,000 in structural chimney work, possibly including a complete rebuild from the roofline up.
The homeowner was upset at first—this wasn’t in their renovation budget. But I showed them photos of what happens when water gets into masonry and freezes. I explained that the creosote buildup was already a fire hazard. And I pointed out that the open damper was probably costing them $50-$75 per month in wasted heat.
We worked out a payment plan. I prioritized the safety work (cleaning, damper, cap) and scheduled the cosmetic tuckpointing for spring. They ended up getting everything done because they saw the value.
Last time I checked in (I follow up with customers), they were burning fires regularly, their heating bills had dropped noticeably, and they had zero concerns about their chimney system. That’s the outcome I want for every customer.
Seasonal Considerations in Edwards
Edwards sits at 7,200 feet, and that matters for chimney work more than most people realize.
Spring (April-May)
- Best time for: Inspection and repairs before next season
- Why: Mild weather, materials cure adequately, no rush
- Typical wait time: 1-2 weeks for scheduling
Summer (June-August)
- Best time for: Major projects like relining, rebuilds
- Why: Long daylight, stable weather, materials cure ideally
- Typical wait time: 2-3 weeks (busiest season)
Fall (September-October)
- Best time for: Pre-winter inspection, minor repairs
- Why: Catch problems before heavy use begins
- Typical wait time: 1-2 weeks, increasing to 3-4 by late October
Winter (November-March)
- Best time for: Emergency repairs only
- Why: Weather limits what’s possible
- Typical wait time: For emergencies, same day to 3 days
“I always tell Edwards homeowners: schedule your inspection in May or early September. If you wait until October and we find a problem, you might be looking at a multi-week wait while we finish emergency calls. Then you’re either not using your fireplace or using it unsafely. Plan ahead.” – Adam
Equipment We Use (And Why It Matters)
Professional chimney work requires professional tools. I’ve invested over $30,000 in equipment specifically for mountain work, and here’s some of what we bring to every Edwards job:
- Professional chimney brushes (39-inch rods for straight runs, flex rods for offsets)
- HEPA vacuum systems (12,000+ CFM, so your house stays clean)
- High-resolution chimney cameras (see exactly what I see)
- Laser measuring tools (for precise liner sizing)
- Specialized masonry tools (mountain-grade mortar requires specific trowels)
- Safety equipment (harnesses, scaffolding, roof jacks rated for altitude work)
When I quote $199 for an inspection, part of that price covers this equipment. A DIY inspection with a flashlight and a ladder might seem cheaper, but you won’t see what I see with a camera that can zoom and pan inside your flue.
Understanding Edwards Chimney Code Requirements
This is important: Edwards is in Eagle County, which enforces the International Building Code with local amendments. For chimney work, that means:
Basic Code Requirements:
- Clearances: 2 inches minimum from combustible materials for masonry chimneys, more for metal chimneys
- Height: Chimney must extend 3 feet above the roof penetration and 2 feet above any point within 10 feet
- Liners: Required for all fuel-burning appliances; must be sized appropriately for the appliance
- Caps: Spark arrestors required in wildfire zones (that’s most of Edwards)
- Flashing: Must be properly installed and sealed to prevent water entry
Permit Requirements:
Most chimney work beyond basic cleaning requires a permit in Edwards. Here’s what triggers permit requirements:
| Work Type | Permit Required? | Typical Cost | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cleaning/Inspection | No | N/A | N/A |
| Crown repair | Generally no | N/A | N/A |
| Liner installation | Yes | $75-$125 | 3-5 business days |
| Structural repair | Yes | $100-$150 | 5-7 business days |
| Gas insert installation | Yes | $75-$150 | 3-5 business days |
| New construction | Yes | $150+ | 7-14 business days |
We handle all permit applications for our customers. It’s included in our service—you don’t pay extra for our time dealing with the county.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I have my chimney cleaned in Edwards?
A: If you burn wood regularly (more than 3 times per week during winter), I recommend annual cleaning. For occasional use (less than 40 fires per year), you can probably stretch it to every two years, but you should still have an annual inspection. The altitude and dry air here cause creosote to accumulate faster than at lower elevations.
Q: What’s that white chalky stuff on my chimney bricks?
A: That’s efflorescence—salt deposits that appear when water moves through masonry. It’s a sign that water is getting into your chimney, usually through a cracked crown or deteriorated mortar joints. It’s not immediately dangerous, but it indicates a problem that will worsen if left unaddressed.
Q: Can I burn pine or aspen in my fireplace?
A: You can, but softwoods like pine and aspen create more creosote than hardwoods like oak or ash. If you’re burning pine, you’ll need to clean more frequently. In Edwards, where lodgepole pine and aspen are readily available and often free, many people burn them. Just be aware that you might need cleaning every season instead of every other season.
Q: My fireplace smokes when I first light it. Is that normal?
A: No, that indicates a draft problem. Common causes include a cold chimney (warm the flue with a rolled-up newspaper before lighting your central fire), a closed or partially closed damper, or insufficient air supply to the room. At higher altitudes, Edwards’ draft can be trickier than at sea level. If it persists, call us for an inspection—there might be a blockage or structural issue.
Q: Do I really need a chimney cap?
A: Absolutely. Without a cap, you’re inviting animals, rain, snow, leaves, and debris into your chimney. I’ve seen chimneys completely blocked by bird nests or raccoon debris. A $300-$400 cap is cheap insurance against a $5,000 emergency repair or a house fire. Every single chimney should have a cap.
Q: What’s the difference between a cap and a damper?
A: A chimney cap sits on top of your chimney and keeps things from entering from above. A damper sits just above your firebox (or sometimes at the top in a top-mount damper like our lock-top cap damper) and controls airflow. You need both. The cap keeps stuff out; the damper prevents heat loss when the fireplace isn’t in use.
Q: How long does a chimney liner last?
A: Stainless steel liners typically last 15-25 years with regular use. Clay tile liners can last 50+ years if not damaged, but they’re more prone to cracking from thermal cycling. Aluminum liners (gas only) might last 10-15 years. In Edwards’ harsh climate with freeze-thaw cycles, expect the lower end of these ranges.
Q: Can I install a gas insert myself?
A: Technically, if you’re a licensed gas fitter, yes. But most homeowners aren’t licensed, and DIY gas work is both illegal and dangerous. Gas work requires permits in Eagle County, and the inspector will want to see a licensed contractor’s work. Beyond the legal issues, improper installation can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning or gas leaks. This is absolutely a job for professionals. Our gas insert installation services include all the proper permits and inspections.
Q: What causes creosote, and why is it dangerous?
A: Creosote forms when wood smoke condenses on the inside of your chimney. It goes through three stages: Stage 1 is flaky and easy to remove. Stage 2 is tar-like. Stage 3 is hard, glazed, and very difficult to remove. All three are flammable. Chimney fires typically start when Stage 2 or 3 creosote ignites. These fires can reach 2000°F, which is hot enough to crack masonry, damage metal chimneys, and spread to your house structure. It’s serious.
Q: How much does a full chimney rebuild cost in Edwards?
A: Full rebuilds from the roofline up typically run $8,000-$15,000, depending on height andcomplexityt.Complete rebuilds from the ground up cost more than $25,000. That’s why we emphasize regular maintenance—a $199 annual inspection and $800 in preventive repairs is far cheaper than a $12,000 emergency rebuild.
Q: Do you offer financing or payment plans?
A: Yes. For larger projects over $2,000, we work with financing companies that offer competitive rates. We also offer in-house payment plans for qualified customers. We’d rather work out a payment arrangement than have you delay critical safety work. Check our chimney and fireplace pricing page for current options, or contact us directly to discuss your situation.
Q: What’s your service area besides Edwards?
A: We service the entire Eagle River Valley, Vail, Avon, Minturn, and surrounding areas. Check our full service areas page for specifics. We also service the Denver metro area and most of the Front Range. If you’re wondering whether we serve your area, ask.
Q: Can I schedule a same-day appointment?
A: Sometimes, especially in late spring and summer. During peak season (September-November and January-March), we typically book 1-2 weeks out. For emergencies—like a chimney fire, an active animal in the chimney, or carbon monoxide concerns—we’ll do everything possible to get someone to you within 24 hours.
Getting Started: Next Steps
If you’re in Edwards and you’re reading this, you’re probably either due for a chimney inspection or you’ve already identified a problem. Either way, here’s what I recommend:
- Schedule an inspection – Our $199 inspection and cleaning service is the foundation. We can’t give you accurate pricing for repairs without seeing the actual condition. You can request a quote online or call us directly.
- Plan—if you’re reading this in October and hoping to burn fires all winter, you’re cutting it close. Schedule spring or early fall when we have more availability and the weather is ideal for any needed repairs.
- Budget realistically: a properly maintained chimney costs $200-400 per year for inspections and minor upkeep. A neglected chimney can suddenly demand $5,000+ in emergency repairs. Regular maintenance is always cheaper than emergency fixes.
- Ask questions—I’d rather spend 20 minutes explaining something on the phone than have you make a decision based on incomplete information. Call us, email us, ask away. Check out our chimney and fireplace blog for more detailed articles on specific topics.
- Stay informed—learn about our company and what we stand for. If you’re interested in learning the trade yourself, we’re always looking for good people—check our chimney career opportunities.
Why Choose Us for Edwards Chimney Work
Look, I could fill this section with generic marketing claims about being the best, most trusted, or whatever. Instead, let me tell you what actually sets us apart:
We’re licensed and explicitly insured for high-altitude work. Not all chimney contractors are. Mountain conditions require different approaches.
We use the right materials. I don’t use standard mortar mixes in Edwards. I don’t install builder-grade caps. I use products designed for your climate, even if they cost more, because I guarantee my work.
We educate our customers. I want you to understand what we’re doing and why. That’s why I’m writing 3000-word articles instead of “Give us a call!” blog posts. Informed customers make better decisions.
We stand behind our work. If something goes wrong with the work we did, we make it right. Period. We warranty our repairs for 5 years and our installations for 10 years (longer on some components, such as stainless steel caps).
We respect your time and property. We show up when we say we will. We protect your floors and furniture. We clean up thoroughly. These should be the bare minimums, but you’d be surprised how many contractors don’t do them.
Official Resources and Regulations
For Edwards-specific chimney regulations and permit requirements, consult these official sources:
Eagle County Building Department: For permit applications and specific local building code requirements – Eagle County Building Department
International Code Council (ICC): The source for International Building Code standards that Eagle County follows – ICC Website
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA): Publishes NFPA 211, the standard for chimneys, fireplaces, vents, and solid fuel-burning appliances – NFPA 211 Standard
Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA): Sets industry standards for chimney professionals and provides homeowner education – CSIA Website
Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control: State-level fire safety regulations – Colorado DFPC
These resources will provide detailed information on code requirements, safety standards, and regulations specific to your situation. We stay current with all these codes and standards so you don’t have to, but it’s always good for homeowners to understand the framework we’re working within.
Adam runs a full-service chimney company serving Edwards, Eagle County, and the entire Denver metro area. With over a decade of experience in mountain conditions, specialized training in high-altitude masonry work, and CSIA certification, Adam and his team provide inspection, cleaning, repair, and installation services for all types of chimneys and fireplaces. For more information or to schedule service, visit adamchimneysweep.com/contact.
