Chimney fires are a serious problem for homeowners. They can cause extensive damage to your property and even put your family at risk. There are several things you can do to prevent a chimney fire from occurring at your house.
1. Prevent a Fire by Having the Chimney Inspected
In late summer or fall, hire a professional to inspect the chimney. They will look for problems, including broken bricks, missing mortar, or clogs in the flue. A chimney expert will also be able to make repairs, so the chimney is safe and ready for use this winter.
2. Hire a Chimney Sweep
Before building the first fire of the year, hire a chimney sweep. One of the best ways to prevent chimney fires is to keep the chimney clear of leaves, twigs, animal nests, and other debris. A professional chimney sweep will remove built-up soot and creosote from your chimney, which can help reduce the fire risk.
Chimney cleaning is a task that some homeowners can manage. However, hiring a pro with the necessary tools, equipment, and experience is better.
3. Use Seasoned Wood to Prevent a Chimney Fire
Another way to prevent chimney fires is to use dry, seasoned hardwood in your fireplace. Oak, maple, and birch are great options. Freshly cut or “green” wood produces more smoke, leading to creosote accumulation in the flue. Seasoned wood has been allowed to dry for at least six months and has a lower moisture content, making it less likely to contribute to creosote build-up.
4. Build Small Fires
Building smaller fires is another effective way to prevent chimney fires. Smaller, hotter fires burn more efficiently and produce less soot and creosote. When starting a fire, don’t overload the firebox. Make sure the damper is open to allow good airflow, and don’t add more wood until necessary.
5. Don’t Use Garbage as Fuel
Burning your trash in the fireplace, including cardboard and mail, can easily lead to a chimney fire. Garbage and paper products produce a lot of smoke and ash, which can accumulate in the chimney and ignite. Burning garbage may float up the flue and ignite roofing materials or trees growing near the home.
Chimney fires are one of the leading causes of house fires during winter. Burning wood in your fireplace is a great way to keep your home warm and supplement the HVAC system. However, taking some precautions is necessary to prevent a chimney fire. These simple steps will help you enjoy your fireplace all winter long without worry.
Sevens Property Inspections provides inspection services to home buyers and sellers in New York City. Contact us to schedule an appointment.