Creosote Build-Up: Risks and Solutions

There’s one thing that all homeowners with chimneys should be aware of: creosote. The more you have fires, the more that creosote becomes a concern. While it’s not 100% an issue for all, it’s something to be aware of. It’s a big reason why the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) advises that homeowners should schedule annual cleanings to take care of.

What exactly is creosote?

Creosote is a thick, tar-like by-product that is produced when homeowners burn fires. As the smoke attempts to exit up and out your chimney, the creosote mixes with moisture and adheres to the chimney flue liner and interior bricks of your chimney. The closer the smoke gets to the exterior, the colder it gets. This results in a pesky tar-like consistency. Thus, making it difficult to clean, requiring professional assistance, and maybe even special chemical cleaners to get off the surface of your chimney. If you’re having fires, make sure to avoid softwood as it can contribute to creosote build-up quicker than hardwoods.

The build-up of this material results in a narrowed passageway for smoke to exit and can greatly impact your chimney’s efficiency. The narrower it gets, the more quickly and easily the creosote can build an additional layer, as well. One of the biggest concerns about neglected build-up is a house fire. The NFPA suggests that chimneys should be cleaned every year; however, if you frequently have fires, it’s possible that you’ll need cleanings more often. Your local chimney professional can evaluate your personal chimney and fire habits to determine the correct cadence. 

You’ll want to tackle creosote regularly as a blockage in your chimney can allow for toxic gases, such as carbon monoxide, to seep back into your home. Therefore, it’s important to ensure your carbon monoxide detectors function and have fresh batteries. 

So you haven’t cleaned your chimney in a while?

No worries. While it’s time to call your local chimney professionals, it’s better to start today than never at all. If you call, you’ll likely set up an inspection to get an idea of any structural issues as well as determine the level of creosote build-up. You can also schedule a cleaning for that first appointment since it can be unsafe to leave it accumulated. The safety hazard and fire risk alone are enough to encourage you to get started and call today!

Creosote Uncontrolled in your Chimney?

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. Fire N Stone is a full-service chimney specialist knowledgeable about all things chimney and unruly creosote build-ups. Our technicians are highly trained and make sure to thoroughly investigate any issue, and then come up with a plan that works with your schedule. 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.