The Importance of Creosote Removal
If you have a wood-burning appliance in your home, it’s essential to understand the importance of creosote removal. Creosote is highly flammable, and failing to remove a thick layer of creosote is a major hazard. Thousands of home fires occur at the beginning of every winter season when fires are lit but chimneys are clogged with creosote. Burning embers can easily ignite the tar-like substance. If a chimney fire starts, the flames are fed by the creosote in the chimney lining. Below, read about the dangers of chimney fires and more about the importance of creosote removal.
Beware of Chimney Fires!
Some chimney fires are explosive blazes and others that burn slowly go undetected. Both kinds are equally dangerous. An obvious chimney fire may create dense smoke inside your home and loud popping and cracking noises. You may also detect an intensely hot smell. Neighbors may contact you in alarm because they spot dense smoke and flames pouring out through your chimney. Many homeowners with this type of chimney fire have reported that they were alarmed by hearing a low rumbling sound, much like a low flying aircraft or a freight train.
If a raging chimney fire is in your home, it’s best to immediately vacate the premises, getting everybody out, and call 9-1-1.
The obvious chimney fire and the obscure chimney fire have something in common. Both are more than capable of completely destroying the chimney flue as well as chimney masonry. When a chimney flue is damaged, the home is at risk of a life-threatening house fire. Without the protection of an intact flue liner, occupants of the home are also exposed to toxic gases, including deadly carbon monoxide.
The Danger of Chimney Obstruction
If not cleaned out by a qualified chimney sweep on a routine basis, creosote builds up layer upon layer. It is not unusual for a chimney to be completely obstructed by creosote buildup. When blockage of any kind occurs in a chimney, the chimney draft can no longer work. Toxic fumes will enter the home, potentially endangering everyone inside. The obstruction problem is one that can typically be resolved by scheduling chimney cleaning with a CSIA-certified chimney sweep company.
Three Types of Creosote
The three different kinds of creosote also demonstrate the importance of creosote removal. Learn about them below:
- Stage 1 creosote is sooty in appearance and it is easily removed using professional chimney cleaning equipment.
- Stage 2 creosote resembles black corn flakes, and its removal typically involves special equipment. Removal of this type of creosote must be performed with care because the equipment used to remove stubborn deposits could damage the chimney flue, otherwise.
- Stage 3 creosote looks like hot tar was poured into the chimney lining. Although this type of creosote may respond to cleaning efforts, sometimes it’s impossible to remove-. The best solution, oftentimes, is to properly install a stainless-steel chimney liner and remove the threat of the remaining creosote.
Schedule Chimney Cleaning
If you live in or around Richmond, Virginia, contact the trusted CSIA-certified chimney sweeps at Chimney Saver Solutions. We offer the full range of chimney services and have top-of-the-line equipment to remove all three types of creosote. We are always happy to answer questions, including any you may have about the importance of creosote removal. For your safety, it is best to schedule routine maintenance as well as chimney inspections and chimney cleaning. Contact us for top-quality chimney services at Chimney Saver Solutions by calling 804-440-5000 today.
