As the days grow shorter and the nights get colder, there are few thoughts more comforting than a nice, roaring fire. However, it can be easy to forget that using your fireplace improperly can cause chimney fires.
Although homeowners rarely think their homes are at risk, chimney fires in Milwaukee happen more often than you might think. Do you know when your chimney was last inspected? Are you aware of the dangers surrounding chimney fires?
Keep reading to learn just how serious a chimney fire is and how you can prevent one. Here are the five most important facts about chimney fires.
1. Creosote Causes Chimney Fires
When you regularly use a wood-burning fireplace in your home, creosote will build up in the lining of the chimney. Creosote is the dark residue that forms inside the chimney shaft.
The longer smoke stays in your chimney, the more creosote builds up. The combustible nature of this chemical and its prolonged build-up make it a common cause of fires.
2. Chimney Fires Can Go Unnoticed
Unlike a fire that could erupt in other areas of your home, a chimney fire is often concealed. You could have numerous small chimney fires without ever realizing it.
Restricted airflow and a limited fuel source can make for small, slow-burning fires. Yet, the damage they cause can be just as severe. This is why regular chimney maintenance is so important.
3. The Secret Damage Caused by Chimney Fires
The damage caused by a fire in your chimney can be ranging and is often only noticed during an inspection.
When you burn brick, it can become brittle and damaged. This causes a long-term impact on the structure of the chimney itself. The longer this goes untreated, the more damaged it becomes.
4. Identifying the Signs of a Chimney Fire
Knowing the signs of fire damage is the first step in preventing future issues. Identifying when you have fire damage allows you to call an inspection company immediately. Licensed inspectors will handle any repairs and make sure the chimney structure isn’t compromised.
Below are common indicators of a chimney fire:
- Masonry cracks
- Chimney smoke escaping through the brickwork
- Heat damage to the TV antennae
- Rain cap discoloration
- Damage to the roofing material
If you notice any of these, it’s important you call a reputable chimney maintenance company. These professionals will know how to keep your family and home safe.
5. Clean Chimneys Will Help Prevent Fires
It’s a simple fact that a clean chimney doesn’t catch fire. This means that with regular maintenance and scheduled inspections, you can keep your chimney clean and reduce the risk of suffering a chimney fire considerably.
Chimney Fires Are an Avoidable Disaster
You have the power to remove chimney fires from your list of concerns. Whether your chimney is brand new, in need of sweeping, or possibly even rebuilding, the time to act is now.
Arrange an inspection before the winter weather hits. You’ll be able to go through the colder months knowing you’re safe to keep your fireplace burning and your home warm.
Get in touch with us today about our Milwaukee-area chimney sweeping and maintenance services. We are fully licensed, bonded, and insured.