How to Keep a Chimney Safe

Every chimney needs periodic inspection to remain functional and safe. The job typically requires a professional chimney service. Both fire and carbon monoxide poisoning result from unsafe chimneys. Even when a chimney looks intact on the outside, danger often exists inside through creosote buildup and cracked flues.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Structural integrity
• Chimney cap
• Spark arrestor
• Working damper
• Hardwoods
• Yearly inspection

1. Inspect the chimney for cracks, missing mortar and broken bricks both outside and inside around the flue tile. Any damage needs repair to keep your chimney safe.

2. Install a chimney cap to protect the flue from rain and animals. Get a stainless steel or copper cap for better wear; they carry lifetime warranties.

3. Replace the screened spark arrestor if damaged and clean away any debris on top, such as dead birds. A blocked arrestor hinders airflow up the chimney.

4. Test the fireplace damper for proper opening and closing. Good working condition prevents creosote buildup in the flue and carbon monoxide entering your house.

5. Burn seasoned maple, oak and ash hardwoods in the fireplace. Hardwoods give more heat and minimize creosote build-up in the chimney. Allow the wood six to nine months to dry out.

6. Schedule a chimney inspection each year with a chimney professional. Include the dryer vent and gas furnace flue. Call local chimney service shops for competitive estimates.

Tips & Warnings

• Creosote rises in the smoke and builds up on the inside walls of the chimney producing a potential fire hazard to unclean flues. Look in the yellow pages for a local chimney sweep to clean the chimney.
• Clay liners that line the inside of a chimney erode from furnace residue. Older homes need to have this area inspected for safety against potential fires and water leaks. These liners provide airtight pathways up the flue and come in tile, metal and cement.