Keep reading for some tips on preventing chimney fires.
Now that the weather is cooling, many homeowners use their fireplaces as a heat source. It may be an economical choice, considering the cost of energy to heat their homes.
Homeowners must be aware of the dangers involved in fireplace use. Knowing the causes of chimney fires and how to protect yourself and your family is important. Over 25,000 chimney fires cause over $125 million in property damage yearly. Let us discuss some of the concerns homeowners may have and how to protect them. Keep reading for some tips on preventing chimney fires.
Clean and Inspect Your Chimney
A clean chimney will help prevent a chimney fire. Schedule an annual chimney sweep to reduce creosote buildup, a main culprit of chimney fires. Creosote is a flammable tar-like substance that builds up on the inner walls of your chimney when you burn wood in your fireplace. If not cleaned out regularly, it may catch a stray spark, causing a chimney fire.
An annual chimney inspection is your first defense against chimney fires. A professional company like Champion Chimneys will inspect your entire chimney structure. They will also discuss a plan for maintaining your chimney to protect you from any danger.
Only Use Seasoned Firewood
Hardwood burns the fastest and hottest. Be sure to choose seasoned firewood for your fireplace. Wood holds a lot of moisture. With moisture, the wood will produce smoke, and the smoke goes up the chimney and creates creosote. You should allow wood to season for at least six months and up to a year. It is a good idea to buy your wood now for next year. This way, you can ensure that it is completely dry. Dry wood will burn the hottest, and creosote buildup will be minimal.
Install Heatproof Glass Doors to Prevent Chimney Fires
It is important to also protect the inside of your home from chimney fires. A good heat-proof glass door is recommended by the experts. Keeping this closed will keep any sparks from falling into the room and causing a fire.
Consider a Chimney Liner
Invest in a stainless-steel chimney liner to protect your chimney. Stainless steel withstands very high temperatures. A liner will also protect your home from carbon monoxide gas seepage through the bricks. Stainless steel is durable and will last for years.
Schedule Your Chimney Cleaning from Champion Chimneys, Inc.
When you need a trusted company for your chimney inspection and chimney cleaning, you can trust our team. 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.). 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.