Chimney fires are scary things to think about, but by taking a few precautions, you can help prevent this problem from happening in your Minneapolis home.
First, here is a little on what causes chimney fires. The wood that you burn in your fireplace or wood stove contains material than can condense on the inside of your chimney. This forms a tar-like substance called creosote, which is very flammable. If enough creosote builds up in your chimney, it can form a serious fire hazard.
While any wood can create creosote, there are some factors that make creosote buildup more likely. Burning green wood, extremely cold temperatures, and poor air supply can lead to more creosote condensing on the chimney. To reduce buildup, it’s best to have small, hot fires with seasoned firewood, and to stay informed about the common misunderstandings surrounding chimney sweeping that can lead to unsafe conditions.
However, since burning any wood will lead to creosote in your chimney, the best way to prevent chimney fires is to have your chimney cleaned and inspected every year. A chimney sweep will remove any creosote buildup and check over your chimney for other problems. Learn more about why summer is still a smart time to schedule chimney sweeping, even if your fireplace isn’t currently in use.
To prepare for your chimney sweep’s visit, there are a few things that you can do:
- Don’t use the fireplace or wood stove for 24 hours before the appointment
- Move furniture away from the fireplace
- Keep pets and children away from the work area
You might also want to understand what actually happens during a chimney sweeping so you know what to expect when the technician arrives.
If you haven’t have your Minneapolis chimney cleaned and inspected this year, call 2nd Generation Chimneys today to schedule your appointment!
