February 2016 – Page 2 – Ask the Chimney Sweep

Chimney Fires A chimney flue is very important because it carries dangerous A chimney fire wraps this chimney cap. byproducts of combustion out of your home. Fires have been used for warmth for centuries, and over time our knowledge of what needs to be done in order to keep the chimney safe has evolved. A dirty or damaged chimney can be potentially destructive in that it can cause chimney fires which can significantly damage your home and hurt or kill those who live inside of it. What is a chimney fire? A chimney fire occurs when a fire actually moves up into the flue system so that it is not burning only in the specially designed firebox, it is burning in the chimney itself. A chimney is designed to hold the hot gases that are byproducts of burning fire. It is not designed to hold fire. Characteristics Charectiatics of a chimney fire includes a lot of dense smoke and intense heat and a noise that sounds like a freight train rumbling by. Not only does a chimney fire caused damage to your chimney which almost always results in the chimney having to be relined or rebuilt, but it can also damage nearby combustibles which include walls to your home, the roof, etc. Damage The worst part about the incredible damage that a chimney fire can cause is the fact that it was completely preventable in the first place. A properly working and designed chimney is capable of ventilating the extremely hot gases that are the byproducts of combustion. However, when the flue system is missing mortar joints or has cracks, a chimney fire is able to happen. This is because the fire is able to catch the wood framing of the home. Creosote's Part Creosote buildup is another condition conducive to a chimney fire occurring. Any amount of creosote is capable of being caught on fire. An excessive buildup is particularly bothersome to chimney professionals. This is because this provides a chimney fire plenty of fuel to burn for a long time, potentially causing destruction. Prefab Fireplaces In prefabricated, metal chimneys, it is important to use only Underwriter's Laboratories (UL) listed parts for replacement. Most UL listed parts and systems have been tested by this organization to withstand very high temperatures (above 2000 degrees). But under theses conditions, it can still be damaged. When a prefab unit has been damaged by a chimney fire it must usually be replaced completely. Flue Tiles Cracked flue tiles, cause warping of metal parts associated with your wood burning system. It causes warped or discolored chimney caps and very puffy creosote which may be multicolored. There are all indicators that a chimney fire has occurred. A chimney that is cleaned regularly and inspected with video equipment is the safest chimney to burn a fire in. If a chimney fire should occur you must get out of the home immediately and call the fire department. If you are able to without putting yourself or anyone else in danger, before the fire department arrives it is helpful to spray down the roof of the home to prevent the fire from spreading to the roof. I hope that this information helps! Check out our YouTube Videos or our Blogs to learn more about chimney fires and more! Burn Safe and Warm, Clay Lamb