Fireplace Chimney Maintenance

Having a fireplace at home means that in most cases you will need to have a chimney as well, if you already have a chimney all you need to worry about is its regular safety inspections and daily cleaning and usual maintenance, if you need to install a new chimney than you probably have a lot of work ahead.

For woodstoves, you must construct either a stainless steel class "A" insulated chimney approved by UL or a masonry chimney. The basic principle here is to direct combustion gases upward and away from the interior of the home. The chimney should extend at least 3 feet above any construction in the building and 2 feet higher than any surface of the roof. Of course, higher chimney is always better.

When constructing a woodstove chimney, it is important to create the best outward draft possible. Meaning, use very minimal bent.

Maintenance tips:

Stove installation should be checked at least once a year to ensure that the clearances from combustible surfaces are maintained to prevent any hazard. Stove pipes are subject to high temperature so it should be checked periodically for corrosion. Replace it if corrosion level exceeds the safe zone.

If there is a need to clean your chimney, take a professional chimney sweep to do the job. Keep the damper closed when the fireplace is not used to prevent the heat or air conditioning from escaping. Always keep the damper open when building a fire. Installing a chimney cap of high quality can extend the life of your chimney. It also prevents birds, insects, and animals to nest in your chimney. A waterproofed chimney will prevent masonry damage and corrosion.

Materials being burned contribute to how much your cleaning frequency would be. Wet and unseasoned wood, incomplete combustion, and cool wall linings can contribute to creosote build up. Creosote deposits on the interior walls of the chimney can reduce the efficiency of the fireplace. Creosote deposits can also ignite under certain circumstances. Make sure that the linings are clean and the build up is controlled. Ash and charcoal deposits on the stove area can smolder if not remove immediately. Clean the stove carefully and dispose the waste properly.

Direct vent fireplaces, inserts, and stoves do not require a chimney. Usually, these types of fireplaces are easy to install and cheaper compared to woodstoves that requires a chimney. Direct vent fireplaces, inserts, and stoves can be very ideal to places with limited space - a small house that cannot accommodate big chimney with a greater need for a heating source.

A Fire Place is just what you need to add character and warmth to your home. Learn about planning, buying and placing your Fire Place in your home by following Daniel Roshard?s Fireplace Chimney articles and Fireplace tips.