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Don’t
neglect chimneys
I’m sure that the
condition of your chimney is the last thing you want to think about while
you’re sweltering through another North
Carolina s u m m er.
Even though September has arrived, it’s hard to think about the cool
autumn days when you can see your breath as you step outside in the early
morning or hear the g round crunch as you walk across your f ro s t -c overed lawn.
It almost seems that autumn is a war ning from
Mother Nature to change our way of thinking and get prepared for the coming
winter and the ice storms for which we are so famous.
Many people use a fireplace because of the cozy and relaxing
atmosphere it creates, but with the rise in fuel prices over the last couple
of years, the use of wood as a primary heating source has increased. To
assure safety, you should have your chimney cleaned and inspected on a
regular basis by a professional chimney sweep. The National Fire Protection
Association recommends that you have your chimney inspected yearly.
One of the big problems we see in chimneys is the buildup of creosote.
Anytime you burn wood, whether it’s soft or hardwood, creosote will
build up in the chimney.
There are many factors that affect how fast creosote accumulates in
your chimney. Wood stove inserts create much more creosote than a fireplace.
Green wood and smoldering fires are also big culprits in creosote buildup.
Creosote can stop up your chimney, but, more important, it is the fuel
for chimney fires that can cause extensive damage to your chimney and
possibly your home.
Another common problem is cracks in the chimney. These can often be
found in the terracotta clay liners, the throat of the chimney and the
firebox area. They can be the result of heat damage, improper construction
practices and settling of the home. Cracks are dangerous because they can
leave possible avenues for fire to travel into the walls and attic of your
home.
A chimney fire is a scary and dangerous experience that most people do
not want to have.
Just like any other part of our home, the chimney must be properly
serviced and maintained to assure safety and optimum performance. Autumn will
soon be here so don’t forget your chimney.
24/7/365: You call; we res p o n d .
KENNETH LEE KNIGHT is a battalion chief in the High Point Fire
Department.
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