Chimney Fires Part 2: 4 Ways You Can Prevent Them

In the previous blog, we spoke about the cause and effect of chimney fires as well as what you can do if they ever happen in your home. However, according to chimney relining experts, those aren’t the only things that you should know. In fact, you should also learn about the different ways you can prevent chimney fires from occurring in the first place. 

Here are the four different ways you can stop them from happening:

1. Schedule an Annual Inspection 
   One of the common reasons why fires start is because the chimney sustained some form of damage, such as a cracked flue liner. As such, when you’re looking to prevent winter chimney fires from occurring in your home, make it a point to schedule an inspection every once in a while. That way, any damage that the chimney has sustained can be spotted and repaired.

2. Minimize Creosote Buildup 
   Creosote is a highly flammable, dark brown substance that is a by-product of smoke, vapor and unburned wood. If left unattended, it can build up and catch fire once the chimney flue’s temperature is high enough. To prevent creosote buildup and chimney fires, have your chimneys cleaned regularly. Alternatively, you can also minimize it by only burning seasoned hardwood that has been dried for at least six months and has no more than 20% of moisture content remaining.

3. Install a Chimney Cap 
   Apart from the aforementioned methods, chimney masonry repair pros also say that you can install a chimney cap to prevent fires from occurring. This will let you keep leaves and animal nests away, and prevent loose embers from touching them and starting a fire in your home.

4. Regularly Clean Your Chimney 
   When you’re having professionals inspect your chimney, have them measure the creosote buildup in your chimney. If the creosote buildup is a half-inch layer, have them clean it immediately to prevent a chimney fire from starting.

Make your search for a chimney sweep easier by turning to Chimney Doctors. Give us a call at (518) 882-5009, or fill out our contact form to get in touch with us and schedule an appointment with us today! We serve homeowners in Saratoga Springs, NY, and other nearby areas.