Human beings are the only living creatures who can control fire. Even in a digital world, a cozy fireplace is still inherently appealing, and usually becomes the focus of social gatherings. While a well-maintained hearth creates a pleasant atmosphere, poor upkeep can result in choking clouds of smoke, and in some cases ignoring needed chimney repairs leads to a house fire.
Newer homes are usually connected to natural gas, and many are not designed for wood burning fireplaces. Regardless, there must still be a safe and effective way to release the hot gases and residue from basement boilers or furnaces. In warmer regions, a fireplace may be used only occasionally during the winter, and maintenance becomes relatively easy to ignore.
Delaying routine inspections and repair can be deadly. Each year there are multiple home disasters caused by chimney fires. The single biggest problem is chronic neglect, resulting in a steady buildup of creosote. Creosote is the residue left by damp wood smoke and flames, and can accumulate comparatively quickly. Creosote burns easily, and can quickly transform a vent into a flaming torch.
Signs that a structure is becoming dangerously coated may not be immediately obvious. If the smoke escaping from the top is consistently dark, or if the flue no longer prevents smoke from filling the room, there is usually a buildup. The only real way to know how quickly the substance accumulates is to perform inspections personally, or to hire a professional inspector more than once a year.
Most homeowners are actually capable of doing so on their own. To ensure safety, wear a mask and goggles, and choose an day that is relatively calm, in order to prevent soot from blowing. Both the interior fireplace and the roof should be examined, using a strong flashlight. It may also help to have an angled mirror for peering around the interior corners common in some structures.
If any animal nests have been built inside, they must be taken down for safety. Even though it may not completely block the flue, an obstruction can lead to a buildup of carbon monoxide, and odorless but deadly gas. A simple screwdriver or knife makes a good tool for testing the thickness of the deposit. Accumulations greater than 1/4 inch should be cleaned away immediately.
Creosote deposits are only one possible hazard. Cracking is also an issue, and can be caused by settling foundations or harsh weather conditions. Older chimneys may be made of brick, and deteriorating mortar can cause them to topple during a strong storm or mild earthquake. Flashing is usually installed between the roof and brick, and if it works loose, water can damage the surface underneath.
In damp climates, moss should not be allowed to grow on the surface, and if there is a cap above the flue it may need cleaning or replacing. Homeowners who notice any obvious problems should alert their regular maintenance service. If repairs are necessary, have them done before lighting the fireplace or wood stove. A professional inspection and repairs can save money in the long run, and might end up preventing a disaster.
Newer homes are usually connected to natural gas, and many are not designed for wood burning fireplaces. Regardless, there must still be a safe and effective way to release the hot gases and residue from basement boilers or furnaces. In warmer regions, a fireplace may be used only occasionally during the winter, and maintenance becomes relatively easy to ignore.
Delaying routine inspections and repair can be deadly. Each year there are multiple home disasters caused by chimney fires. The single biggest problem is chronic neglect, resulting in a steady buildup of creosote. Creosote is the residue left by damp wood smoke and flames, and can accumulate comparatively quickly. Creosote burns easily, and can quickly transform a vent into a flaming torch.
Signs that a structure is becoming dangerously coated may not be immediately obvious. If the smoke escaping from the top is consistently dark, or if the flue no longer prevents smoke from filling the room, there is usually a buildup. The only real way to know how quickly the substance accumulates is to perform inspections personally, or to hire a professional inspector more than once a year.
Most homeowners are actually capable of doing so on their own. To ensure safety, wear a mask and goggles, and choose an day that is relatively calm, in order to prevent soot from blowing. Both the interior fireplace and the roof should be examined, using a strong flashlight. It may also help to have an angled mirror for peering around the interior corners common in some structures.
If any animal nests have been built inside, they must be taken down for safety. Even though it may not completely block the flue, an obstruction can lead to a buildup of carbon monoxide, and odorless but deadly gas. A simple screwdriver or knife makes a good tool for testing the thickness of the deposit. Accumulations greater than 1/4 inch should be cleaned away immediately.
Creosote deposits are only one possible hazard. Cracking is also an issue, and can be caused by settling foundations or harsh weather conditions. Older chimneys may be made of brick, and deteriorating mortar can cause them to topple during a strong storm or mild earthquake. Flashing is usually installed between the roof and brick, and if it works loose, water can damage the surface underneath.
In damp climates, moss should not be allowed to grow on the surface, and if there is a cap above the flue it may need cleaning or replacing. Homeowners who notice any obvious problems should alert their regular maintenance service. If repairs are necessary, have them done before lighting the fireplace or wood stove. A professional inspection and repairs can save money in the long run, and might end up preventing a disaster.
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