Swallow Chimney Co has been Lexington’s trusted chimney sweep for over 20 years, earning homeowner trust through seasonal readiness, transparent pricing, and certified expertise. We don’t just clean chimneys—we prepare them for the unique demands of Davidson County winters.
1. Seasonal readiness: we show up before the rush
Every October, Lexington homeowners start calling for chimney sweeps as the first cold snap hits. By then, many local companies are booked solid for weeks. We schedule our seasonal sweeps starting in late August, so when the first frost arrives on the Davidson County line, your chimney is already inspected and cleared. This isn’t just convenience—it’s safety. A blocked or creosote-laden chimney in Lexington’s damp fall weather can lead to dangerous backdrafts or even chimney fires before you light your first fire of the season. Contact us early to lock in your pre-winter appointment and avoid the winter rush.
A chimney inspection is a visual and instrumental check of the flue, liner, smoke chamber, damper, and exterior masonry for damage or hazardous buildup.
A chimney inspection is the foundation of safe fireplace use. In Lexington, where older homes along West Center Street and Main Street often have original masonry, hidden cracks or deteriorating liners can let heat escape or allow embers to ignite nearby wood framing. We perform three levels of inspection, from a basic Level 1 sweep to a Level 2 video inspection when you’ve had a chimney fire or structural changes to your home. Each inspection follows the standards set by the Chimney Safety Institute of America ((the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)|https://www.csia.org/)) and the National Fire Protection Association’s NFPA 211 code ((the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)|https://www.nfpa.org/)). We document findings with photos and a written report you can share with your insurance agent or realtor. See our full list of services.
2. Local expertise on Davidson County homes and weather
Lexington’s climate—hot, humid summers and damp, chilly winters—accelerates chimney deterioration faster than in drier regions. Brick and mortar absorb moisture, freeze, and spall, while metal components like dampers and flue liners corrode. We’ve serviced homes from the historic districts near the Davidson County Courthouse to newer subdivisions off Huffman Mill Road. Our crews know the telltale signs of moisture damage in Davidson County brickwork and can recommend repairs or waterproofing before small cracks become major leaks. We also advise on burning only seasoned, local hardwoods recommended by the EPA’s Burn Wise program the EPA's Burn Wise program to reduce creosote buildup and air pollution.
3. Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Homeowners in Lexington tell us they dread the surprise charges that pop up after a chimney sweep. We publish typical price ranges on our pricing page, so you know what to expect before we arrive. A basic Level 1 sweep in Lexington averages $120–$180 for a standard masonry chimney under 20 feet, while a Level 2 video inspection with cleaning runs $220–$320 depending on accessibility. We include free estimates on all jobs and never upsell unnecessary services. If we find damage, we’ll show you photos and explain repair options with clear, written estimates. Our goal is to make chimney care predictable and stress-free.
4. Certified technicians with local roots and full insurance
Every Swallow Chimney Co technician is CSIA-certified and carries both liability insurance and workers’ compensation. That matters in Lexington, where many homes sit on tight lots or have steep roofs near the Yadkin River floodplain. Our crews are background-checked and drug-tested, and we maintain a clean, professional appearance when working on your property. We’re also active members of the Lexington-Davidson County Chamber of Commerce, so you’ll often see our trucks parked near the Davidson County Fairgrounds or at local hardware stores like Lowe’s on Huffman Mill Road. Meet our team and see why Davidson County homeowners trust us year after year.
5. Emergency response for Lexington-area chimney issues
A cracked flue or sudden downdraft can turn a cozy evening by the fire into a safety hazard. We offer emergency chimney service for Lexington homeowners within our service area, including Thomasville, High Point, and the Davidson County line. If you smell smoke indoors, hear a loud cracking noise, or notice soot falling into your fireplace, call us immediately. We respond 24/7 for chimney fires, obstructions, or carbon monoxide alarms triggered by a blocked flue. Our emergency team carries thermal imaging cameras to locate hidden heat sources and can tarp damaged sections to prevent further water intrusion until permanent repairs are scheduled.
6. Waterproofing and masonry repairs tailored to Davidson County brick
Water is a chimney’s worst enemy, and Lexington’s humidity and seasonal rains make proactive waterproofing essential. We apply a breathable, siloxane-based waterproofing treatment that lets moisture vapor escape while blocking liquid water. This is especially important for older brickwork common along Main Street and near the Davidson County Courthouse, where mortar joints often deteriorate faster due to freeze-thaw cycles. We also offer repointing and tuckpointing using Type N mortar compatible with Davidson County’s historic brick blends. Our treatments come with a 5-year warranty against water penetration, giving you peace of mind through the wettest winters.
7. Free estimates and seasonal maintenance plans
We make it easy to stay ahead of chimney maintenance with free, no-obligation estimates and seasonal maintenance plans. Sign up for our annual plan and receive priority scheduling, a 10% discount on services, and reminders when it’s time for your next inspection. Many Lexington homeowners on Huffman Mill Road and near the Davidson County line choose this option to avoid the last-minute rush and ensure their chimneys are ready for the first cold snap. Contact us today to schedule your free estimate or learn more about our maintenance plans.
| Service | Typical Cost Range | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 Sweep (standard masonry chimney) | $120–$180 | Basic cleaning, visual inspection, ash removal |
| Level 2 Video Inspection | $220–$320 | Level 1 + video scan of flue, smoke chamber, and liner |
| Waterproofing Treatment | $250–$400 | Breathable siloxane sealant, 5-year warranty |
| Masonry Waterproofing & Repointing | $800–$2,500 | Repointing mortar joints, waterproofing, minor brick repairs |
| Chimney Cap Installation | $200–$500 | Stainless steel cap, spark arrestor, bird guard |
| Emergency Chimney Service (after-hours) | $350–$600 | 24/7 response, thermal imaging, temporary tarp if needed |
Frequently Asked Questions
My chimney in Lexington smells like campfire even when I haven’t used it in months. Why does this happen and what can I do?
That campfire smell is creosote and soot trapped in your flue, which Lexington’s humidity amplifies. A thorough sweep removes the buildup, and we recommend a waterproofing treatment to prevent future absorption. Schedule a Level 1 sweep and ask about our odor-eliminating additives.
Why does my chimney in Davidson County backdraft when the wind blows from the northwest?
Northwest winds push air down your flue if your chimney isn’t tall enough or lacks a proper cap. We can extend the flue or install a draft-inducing cap to correct this common issue in Lexington’s older neighborhoods.
Can I burn my Christmas tree in my Lexington fireplace after the holidays?
No. Fresh pine and other softwoods create excessive creosote and can coat your flue in sticky residue. Stick to seasoned hardwoods like oak or hickory, and always use a fireplace screen to prevent embers from popping onto your hearth.
How do I know if my chimney in Lexington needs a liner replacement?
Signs include cracks in the flue tiles, excessive creosote buildup despite regular cleaning, or smoke leaking into rooms. We perform a Level 2 video inspection to assess the liner’s condition and recommend stainless steel or cast-in-place liners if needed.