Knowing a few chimney basics can help preserve the lifespan of your chimneys.
Knowing a few chimney basics can help preserve the lifespan of your chimneys. Homeowners love the warmth and beauty that a fireplace can bring, but often fail to cater to their chimney, which can be dangerous. Chimney inspections and regular cleanings can prevent a lot of damage, or the worst-case scenario: a chimney fire. We encourage you to get up close with your chimney and learn more about it. Here are a few chimney basics that every homeowner should know.
Every Homeowner Should Know Their Chimney Type
Not all chimneys are alike. Knowing the type that’s in your home is critical to proper maintenance. Here are the three main types:
- Single-Walled Metal: Single-walled metal chimneys involve a thin metal pipe sticking up from the home’s roof with a circular top. Older homes typically have this type of chimney. Newer building codes favor masonry chimneys.
- Masonry: These are standard brick chimneys and are the safest. Masonry chimneys are efficient and reliable because they come with pre-installed liners to ensure proper ventilation.
- Pre-Fabricated Metal: This type of chimney is also known as a “factory-built” chimney and most ideal for commercial properties.
Every Homeowner Can Benefit From Having a Chimney Liner
Chimney liners protect your house from heat and flammable materials. When a chimney doesn’t have this specialized coating, the heat from a fire can rise expeditiously and cause any nearby products to catch on fire. Chimney liners provide a much-needed barrier to ensure you and your home’s safety. There are three standard chimney liners:
- Metal: Best for structures that have had many repairs
- Clay: Work best in open fireplaces
- Cast-in-Pace: Customizable chimney liner that has a cement unit designed to fit the shape of your fireplace
Every Homower Should Invest in Chimney Inspections
Only inspecting your home when it’s time to sell is ill-advised. A lot of chimney issues start small, such as small tears in the liner. But when you ignore these issues, worse problems occur. You could end up finding yourself with a massive problem and an expensive bill. Annual chimney inspections can save you a lot of money and keep you from having many migraines. Knowing and becoming familiar with these chimney basics will make a world of difference.
Don’t Be in Despair If Your Chimney Needs Repair
Champion Chimneys, Inc. is a fully licensed, bonded and insured chimney service company that has been serving customers in Baltimore County, Howard County, and Anne Arundel County, Maryland since 2001. Our team is trained and certified by Certified Chimney Professionals, Inc. (CCP, Inc.). Courteous service is our trademark, and our crews arrive on time in uniform, driving fully equipped trucks. We specialize in all aspects of your chimney system. Whether you need chimney and flue cleaning service or a full chimney rebuild or inspection, contact us at 443-Chimney today and let us fix all your chimney problems. Also, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.