It is important to be knowledgeable about chimney terminology to ensure the longevity of your fireplace.
Learning about all the parts that make up your chimney and fireplace is the first step in understanding how a chimney system works. There are more elements to chimneys, fireplaces, and heating systems than most people recognize. If you have had your chimney inspected recently, you may have heard some terms thrown around that you are not familiar with. It is important to be knowledgeable about chimney terminology to ensure the longevity of your fireplace. Here are some important chimney terms you should know.
Chimney Cap
This is the hat or covering that goes on the top of your chimney. It is an essential part of the chimney system as it prevents water, debris, and animals from entering the chimney.
Chimney Crown
The crown is the cement border protecting the opening of the flue. Rainwater falls from the chimney cap and then lands on the crown. In turn, the crown directs the water away from the masonry, protecting the structure.
Flue
The chimney flue is the shaft that directs the smoke away from your home. This is the part of your chimney that your chimney sweep will focus on during inspections. The flue is where creosote accumulates and causes significant damage, and can even spark a fire.
Chimney Liner
This is a thin sheet of metal protecting the masonry of the chimney. It assists in directing smoke and ash from the firebox outside rather than inside your home.
Creosote
This is the leftover material that adheres to the interior of the chimney after lighting a fire. These deposits are highly flammable and toxic. If you do not clean the chimney liner regularly, creosote builds up in layers until it can ultimately obstruct the chimney and even cause a fire.
Flashing
Chimney flashing is the metal on the chimney. The purpose of flashing is to create a waterproof seal between the chimney and the roof. Unfortunately, chimney leaks and serious roof leaks caused by faulty flashing are prevalent.
Firebox
The firebox is where the fire burns to keep the flames in the box. It is one of the most critical safety components of a chimney. Unfortunately, it gets very little attention during maintenance and care.
Chimney Damper
This is a valve, usually a movable or retractable plate, used for manipulating the flow of air or smoke. The chimney damper is essential because it keeps debris and animals out when the fireplace is not in use.
Call the Experts at Champion Chimneys for Chimney Cleaning Today!
Champion Chimneys, Inc. is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured chimney service company that has served 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.