What causes chimney bricks to crack or flake?

This is called spalling. Water soaks into brick or mortar, freezes, and expands, fracturing the surface — most often in the section above the roofline. It worsens each winter if untreated, but caught early it can usually be fixed with sealant or a proper cap instead of a full rebuild.

Do I need a chimney cap?

Yes. An uncapped chimney is one of the most common entry points for rain, snow, and animals, leading to water damage, blockages, and nesting hazards. A properly fitted cap, or a custom full-coverage cap for chimneys with multiple flues, protects the chimney while still allowing smoke to vent safely.

Why do masonry chimneys often leak at the top?

Most chimneys are originally built with a mortar wash — a thin, hand-formed layer of mortar with no reinforcement, overhang, or drip edge. This is why so many masonry chimneys eventually leak and spall near the top. A properly built crown using reinforced concrete with a drip edge is the best way to avoid this problem.

What areas does 21st Century Chimney Sweep serve?

Based in Perry, Kansas, the company serves Lawrence, Topeka, Baldwin City, De Soto, Eudora, Leavenworth, Tonganoxie, and surrounding communities throughout central and northeast Kansas.

21st Century Chimney Sweep Services

Chimney and fireplace maintenance is critical for preserving the comfort and safety of your family, your guests and your pets. Using time-proven as well as the latest technology - 21st Century's goal is to ensure your chimneys and fireplaces are clean and well-maintained and operating at their maximum efficiency.

We offer the following services:

• Chimney Sweeping • Chimney Inspections • Chimney Repair • Chimney Waterproofing • Chimney Caps, Rain and Bird Guards • Fireplace Inspections • Fireplace Cleaning • Fireplace Repair • Flue & Hearth Repair • Proper Crowns • Residential & Commercial • Full Coverage Caps

Service Areas

Lawrence, Kansas • Baldwin City, Kansas • De Soto, Kansas • Eudora, Kansas • Lecompton, Kansas • McLouth, Kansas • Meriden, Kansas • Oskaloosa, Kansas • Ozawkie, Kansas • Tonganoxie, Kansas • Topeka, Kansas

Click here for our Service Area map.

Your local experts in affordable, safe, eco-focused chimney care.

We have always been a locally-owned family business and have 30+ years of general construction and 40+ years of masonry experience. We diagnose performance and safety issues related not only to fire hazards but also indoor and outdoor air quality, home health and longevity of your fireplaces and chimneys.

You always deal with our “A” team.

Further, to make well-informed decisions, every new customer receives a professional, detailed inspection. Our goal is to educate as well as serve our customers.

Jason Clough Owner

21st Century Chimney FAQ

Most fireplaces and wood stoves used regularly should be swept and inspected once a year, ideally before the first fire of the heating season. If you notice a smoky smell, poor draft, or visible soot buildup, schedule a sweep sooner. 21st Century Chimney Sweep has served the Lawrence, Kansas area since 1978 and includes a professional inspection with every visit.