 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
 
|
|
|
|
|
Creosote:
The Monster in your Chimney!
The buildup of creosote in your fireplace, woodstove and chimney is unavoidable, A natural byproduct of the wood burning process, creosote forms a black powdery, flaky or glazed coating on the inside of your chimney. Creosote is a potential fire hazard: it's the primary fuel in most chimney fires! During a chimney fire, the outside surface of the chimney can become hot enough to ignite surrounding walls, floor joists, rafters, insulation or roofing materials. Suddenly, you have a structure fire, which can burn your entire house down. |
|
Carbon Monoxide
The Silent Killer
Leaves, birdnests or debris from your gas or oil heating system can block your chimney. A crack or break in the flue tile to can interfere with the chimney’s ability to vent properly.
If your chimney is blocked or is not airtight, Carbon Monoxide may seep into your home unnoticed. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to those of the flu: headaches, fatigue and nausea. If undetected, this odorless, colorless gas can be fatal.
Your woodstove may be blocked if smoke is blowing |
|
|
|
|
|
back into your home. Sometimes, it may be simple flow reversal -- negative pressures in the house make the smoke blow the wrong way. Carbon Monoxide may be present in this wood smoke as well. Carbon Monoxide from gas appliances is not so noticeable because there is no smoke. |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
A good place to start is the CSIA, or Chimney Safety Institute of America.
The CSIA is dedicated to chimney and venting system safety and to the elimination of residential chimney fires, carbon monoxide intrusion and other chimney related hazards that result in the loss of lives and property. CSIA devotes its resources to educating the public, chimney service professionals and the insurance industry about the prevention and correction of chimney and venting systems hazards. |
|
|
As responsible Chimney Professionals, we believe in spreading knowledge and understanding of our craft and more importantly, safety and maintenance issues that come with the territory. We have provided some useful links to help you find lots of useful information about chimney safety, as well as a few items on the history of chimney sweeping.
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
