It’s Fire Safety Month! Chimney Cleaning can be a Life-Saver

Chimney fires are a pervasive and costly problem, responsible for hundreds of millions of dollars in damages, house fires, and even loss of life. Mortar cracks in the chimney’s concrete are a significant fire risk, and failing to inspect, clean, and repair your chimney on a routine basis can lead to tragic consequences. Fires leave behind creosote on chimneys’ walls. Over time, this creosote accumulates, and when it ignites, it can lead to disastrous results. The fire can quickly climb and superheat, causing severe damage to the chimney’s structure and potentially spreading throughout your home.

Creosote starts innocently enough, resembling ground coffee. However, as it collects more smoke residue and experiences greater heat exposure, it transforms into a sticky, highly flammable substance, similar to tar or thick wax. Removing creosote in its advanced stages is not only challenging but also expensive. Regular maintenance can save you money and, more importantly, make your home significantly safer.

Tips to Prevent Premature Creosote Build-Up

• Burn well-seasoned hardwoods: Hardwoods burn cleaner and hotter, reducing creosote buildup. Ensure the moisture level in your firewood is below 20%.
• Keep your flue fully open when a fire is burning: This helps prevent smoke from cooling and laying on the chimney’s interior.
• Schedule yearly chimney inspections and cleanings to avoid advanced creosote build-up, reducing the risk of chimney or house fires.
• DIY cleaning: If you’re comfortable tackling the project yourself and your chimney is easy to access, clean it whenever creosote buildup is no more than 1/8-inch thick.
• Use the right tools: You’ll need a chimney brush with an extension rod longer than your chimney’s length. It’s a messy job, so be thorough throughout the passage and clean the flu assembly to remove all build-up.

If you have questions about these processes or need the right tools, visit one of our conveniently located Cardinal Home Center stores. We carry fire brick, high-heat mortar, and concrete specifically designed for chimneys. Additionally, you can find chimney caps and brushes at our Madison and Crozet locations. Your safety is our priority, and we’re here to help you protect your home!