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Chimney Safety

The Ins and Outs of Chimneys

1. What is the Cause of Chimney Fires?

Chimney fires are caused by a combustible residue called creosote that progressively builds up over time (especially if your chimney is neglected) through the mixture of fuel exhaust and moisture. Creosote can come in a variety of forms. It may be dry and flaky, drippy and sticky or hardened and shiny. This tar-like substance has the potential to combust explosively or slow and undetected-both situations are ones that you don't want to have happen to you. These situations are avoidable with proper chimney knowledge.

Chimneys are designed to keep moisture out and heat in. Living in Westchester, your home is subject to large quantities of rain and moisture. A chimney that is often moist can develop serious structural issues. Condensation can also occur when warm and cool air collides inside the flue. If there is substantial creosote build-up, it could ignite, causing the heat of the flames to find their way through the cracks and begin to burn through the bricks. Improper airflow could also be a major factor in causing chimney fires. This can be caused by a narrow damper, an improperly vented heating appliance or keeping the glass doors of the fireplace closed for too long. All of these situations could ignore the creosote that is built up in your chimney and a major chimney fire could happen at any moment.

2. How Often Does My Chimney or Appliance Need to be Cleaned or Serviced?

If you are heating your home with coal, natural gas, oil, propane or wood, then it is recommended that you clean your chimney at least once a year as stated by The Chimney Safety Institute of America and National Fire Protection Agency. While once a year is a suggestion, depending on usage, two to three times would be playing it on the safe side. You should also have it inspected and what may seem like minor damage to you, could turn into major damage later. If soot rains down when you open or close your damper or if you are able to measure 1/8" of creosote (a dark brown or black tar), a chimney inspection by an expert should be done as soon as possible.

3. The Importance of Preventing Chimney Leaks

Of course, your home's chimney is designed to keep the moisture out. But over time there is deterioration within the chimney that causes it to leak. When a leak happens, other issues may arise. So it is important to waterproof your chimney and ensure that you don't run into any issues in the water. These leaks can persist and cause mold and rot and severely damage your home.