Avoiding Winter Chimney Fires

Chimney fires aren’t something any homeowner wants to encounter in their life. There are several ways to make sure you can stay ahead and minimize any risk for a home fire. With a few easy adjustments and considerations, we can assure you’re setting yourself and your family up for a safe environment. 

Annual cleaning

Undeniably the most important step to a safe fireplace is regular care and cleanings. The National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) and Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) both recommend annual cleanings and inspections. However, if you burn a fire often, and especially daily, you’d likely benefit from more frequent cleanings. 

Why? The risk associated with letting time go by without cleaning is creosote – a highly flammable and toxic byproduct of fires. It will coat your fireplace and create a tar-like substance that needs to be taken care of by professionals regularly.

Try to avoid softer woods

Speaking of creosote, the type of wood you choose matters! Softer woods tend to retain more moisture, making for a more smokey and creosote-laced burn. This can speed up the production of creosote and the need for a cleaning. Softwoods to avoid include pines, firs, cypress, and cedar to name a few. 

Tidy up the inside of your firebox

After each burn, it’s smart to vacuum/sweep up the firebox. This not only minimizes the lingering fire smell but also reduces the risk of an unwanted spread to your fire. Tidying up in between professional cleanings is always a good idea. However, keep the creosote cleaning to the professionals as it sometimes requires special products. 

Have a stainless steel liner

Liners are vital to improve draft, minimize creosote buildup, and withstand high temperatures well. Additionally, they add another layer to ensure carbon monoxide doesn’t seep into your home. This is important for the safety of your household.

Install a chimney cap

Chimney caps prevent unwanted materials from getting inside your fireplace – branches, leaves, and even critters can lead to blocked fires and potentially unpredictable fires. 

Keep an eye out for excess buildup or other signs

If you notice any excess smell, soot, or creosote it’s important to call a professional – even if it’s only been a short time since cleaning.

This could mean that there is an issue with your fireplace that should be addressed before it gets any worse. 

Ready to take steps for a safer home?

If you know that you’re due for a cleaning, inspection, or both, call your trusted chimney experts at Fire N Stone to get started. We are a full-service chimney specialist in Tilton, NH. Our team is knowledgeable about all things chimney and unruly creosote build-ups. Our technicians are highly trained and make sure to thoroughly investigate any issue. Based on our investigation, we’ll determine the best and safest approach. We guarantee reliable and efficient services. Call us today at 603–293–4040 to set up an appointment or fill out our convenient contact form.