Any kind of logs from trees will burn in a fireplace. However, not all types of logs perform equally. Some can actually cause serious problems if used regularly.

Fluesbrothers Chimney & Fireplace of Kansas City, KS, would like to share a little about the different types of firewood and how to choose the best type to use in your fireplace.

The two types of wood

Dividing firewood into two groups makes it easier to understand. The two types of wood are:

1. Hardwood
2. Softwood

The reason it’s important to differentiate the type of firewood is because each type has its own unique characteristics.

Hardwood

Wood that’s considered “hard” burns longer and hotter while producing less smoke than softer woods. Hardwood is usually easier to get started than softwood and is ideal when you’ll be using your fireplace for extended periods and don’t want to keep refilling the firebox.

Examples of hardwood include:

• Ash
• Walnut
• Oak
• Maple
• Hickory
• Elm

Softwood

Softwoods tend to burn a lot faster than hardwoods, and they’re known for creating more smoke and producing less heat. This type of wood is a good choice when you want a quick fire that doesn’t burn for hours, although it can take a little longer to ignite than hardwood varieties.

Examples of softwood include:

• Fir
• Juniper
• Redwood
• Spruce
• Yew
• Pine

Smoke issues

One of the biggest concerns with firewood is smoke. Smoke rises in the chimney flue, and some of it condenses before leaving the top of the chimney. Condensed smoke becomes creosote.

Creosote is a highly flammable substance that’s responsible for most chimney fires in the U.S. each year. The more creosote, the greater the chance of a serious fire. For this reason, it’s advisable to use mostly hardwoods in your fireplace.

Another cause of excess smoke – in any type of wood – is high moisture content. Fresh wood that hasn’t had at least six months to dry out, or “season,” contains a lot of moisture and makes a lot of smoke. Seasoned wood burns much more efficiently and won’t add as much smoke (and creosote) to your flue.

Chimney safety

If you use a wood-burning fireplace, you won’t be able to completely prevent the production of creosote. You can, however, reduce its danger and your risk of a devastating chimney fire.

Annual chimney sweeping is the solution. CSIA-certified chimney sweeps have the training and equipment to remove creosote from your flue before it builds to a dangerous level.

Chimney technicians use rods, brushes, chains, whips, solvents, and commercial vacuums to do this job. Chimney sweeping isn’t something a homeowner can do with a long brush, and chimney “cleaning” logs are only good for supplemental maintenance, not for thorough cleaning.

Call your Kansas City chimney experts

Now that you know the difference between hard and soft firewood and how smoke turns into creosote, you can make informed decisions about the wood you burn and how to keep your chimney clean and safe.

Fluesbrothers serves the entire Kansas City region with certified chimney sweeping, licensed chimney inspections, and expert chimney repairs. If it’s been more than a year since your chimney was last swept, give us a call at (913) 236-7141. You can also reach out with our handy contact form.

 

The post All Firewood Is Not the Same appeared first on Fluesbrothers Chimney Service.

As a fireplace owner, you’re probably aware of the importance of regular chimney cleaning. But what about chimney inspections? They’re just for new homebuyers, right? The truth is that regular chimney inspections are important for every homeowner with a working fireplace and chimney, and here are the reasons why.

Fire Protection

The number one reason you should get an annual chimney inspection is to guard against a chimney fire. Over time, creosote builds in the chimney and is highly flammable. The problem is that the creosote often ignites and burns slowly, and the homeowner is unaware there’s a problem. These fires cause structural damage that could lead to an explosive fire that puts your entire house at risk down the road.

Regular chimney inspections by a trained professional help identify evidence of these minor fires, so you can fix the damage before it’s too late. 

Ensure Proper Airflow and Ventilation

A bloke or partially blocked chimney can cause smoke and toxic gases, like carbon monoxide, to flow back into the house. Carbon monoxide is known as the silent killer because it’s colorless and odorless, and people frequently don’t know there’s anything wrong until it’s too late. 

Your professional chimney inspector looks for blockages, like animal nests, fallen bricks, and debris that could impede airflow, and removes them to ensure adequate ventilation. 

In addition to venting toxic gases, a blocked chimney can make your fire less efficient. A healthy fire depends on a good draft, drawing in oxygen to burn efficiently, which can’t happen when the chimney is blocked. 

Identifying Structural Issues

Because your chimney is exposed to the elements 24/7/365, it’s more susceptible to wear and tear than other parts of your home. Water, freezing temperatures, seismic activity, and shifting soil can cause cracks, leaning, and erosion that could lead to a chimney collapse. Annual chimney inspections can identify minor issues, allowing you to fix them before they become expensive repairs or rebuilds. 

Protect Your Investment

Your home is likely your most significant investment, so it’s essential to keep it well-maintained by making minor repairs as needed, including your chimney. A well-maintained chimney ensures that your fireplace runs safely and efficiently, contributing to your home’s overall value. If you ever decide to sell, a functional fireplace in good condition is still valuable to many potential homebuyers. 

While it’s easy to take the chimney for granted, as you can see, overlooking or ignoring routine maintenance and inspection can have significant or life-altering consequences. Whether it’s a risk of fire, exposure to toxic gases, structural damage, or reduced efficiency, the problems of a neglected chimney are numerous. 

To ensure your fireplace and chimney are safe and for peace of mind, schedule an annual chimney inspection by a certified professional. 

Call the Best Chimney Service in the Kansas City Metro Area

Fluesbrothers is the most trusted chimney and fireplace contractor in Kansas City, proudly serving homeowners for over a decade. 

You can rely on our certified professionals for chimney inspection, cleaning, maintenance, repairs, rebuilding, and more. 

Call us today to book an appointment at 913–236–7141 or contact us online.

The post Yes, Chimney Inspections Are Important appeared first on Fluesbrothers Chimney Service.

Have you ever noticed a crack in your chimney? If so, you most likely wondered whether or not it was something to be concerned about. In this blog post, we will break down the causes of a cracked chimney and our professional recommendations on resolving the problem.

At Best Chimney Services, our team of chimney technicians have over thirty years of experience and are prepared to handle all types of chimney-related questions and concerns. Give us a call if you are seeing a crack in your chimney, or read on to learn more about chimney cracks!  

What Causes a Chimney to Crack?

Noticing a crack in your chimney can be quite alarming, but what causes cracks to occur in the first place? There are several causes of chimney cracks. The most common reason for a chimney to crack is a weather event such as severe wind, lightning, sudden changes in the temperature, and earthquakes (though those are fortunately rare in the northeast). Other causes include an old chimney that has not been well maintained, an improperly built chimney foundation, and unaddressed water damage. In these situations, a chimney’s brick and mortar breaks down and then cracks occur. 

What Happens if You Have a Cracked Chimney?

When there are cracks in your chimney, that means there is a gap between your chimney’s brick and mortar. When those gaps form, water can enter the structure with ease allowing moisture to seep into your home. This can also cause internal chimney deterioration that can be very costly. Therefore, if you’re noticing cracks in your chimney, there is definitely a reason to be concerned because it can lead to health concerns for your family and damage to your home. We always advise to have visible cracks taken care of right away to avoid a much bigger issue down the road. 

How to Fix a Chimney Crack

If you are not a chimney professional, then it will be difficult to identify how the crack has affected your chimney. It’s possible your chimney requires a partial rebuild, repointing, or waterproofing to avoid future problems. The best way to take care of those concerns is to hire a professional. Our chimney technicians at Best Chimney Services will be able to evaluate the severity of the cracks and diagnose the solution accordingly. Take a look at our chimney masonry services to learn more about this process. Call us today to book your masonry appointment!

Hire Best Chimney Services to Address Your Cracked Chimney

We understand the stress of handling home repair issues. When you’re facing chimney problems, turn to us so that we can take care of them for you! Our experienced team of chimney technicians is dedicated to providing your home with excellent service and care. If you’ve noticed a crack in your chimney, we encourage you to contact us today so we can take care of the problem and give you peace of mind

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It’s time to consider how to keep your home safe from chimney fires before the winter months arrive. By adhering to these recommended safety procedures will prevent chimney fires and lessen the creosote accumulating in your chimney flue.

Some of the things you need to do to avoid chimney fires in your home include: 

Have your chimney inspected.

You should have your chimney inspected at least once a year. If you haven’t inspected your unit yet, it’s time to do it before the cold season begins. 

Chimney inspection helps you look for damage and possible threats that could develop into larger issues later. 

You can inspect the chimney by yourself, but let an expert help you for the best outcome. 

The contractors you hire search for the following indications of damage:

• Breaks
• Chimney liner damage
• Shattered flue tiles
• Rubbish
• Faulty installation

In most cases, a chimney sweep will inspect your chimney while cleaning it, which saves you money. When you hire a contractor, don’t just assume that the service includes a free inspection. Always confirm this beforehand.  

Of course, to save some money, hire a chimney sweep that offers a free cleaning service. 

Clean the chimney

Routine chimney cleaning is the best way to avoid a chimney fire, although it is easy to forget it. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) advises cleaning your chimney once a year to prevent fires and remove creosote accumulation. 

To avoid fires, the walls of a chimney shouldn’t ever have more than 1/8 inch of creosote accumulation on them. 

Before using your fireplace, make an appointment for professional chimney cleaning when you discover a thick creosote.

Some homeowners try to clean the chimneys by themselves. While nothing is wrong with this, you should note that chimney cleaning can be unpleasant and even dangerous when you do it the wrong way. 

For peace of mind that the task is done effectively and safely, hire a professional chimney sweep to do the work. Chimney sweeps possess the knowledge and tools necessary to complete the job successfully.

Ensure your chimney is ash-free

Charred timber and gray ash are the common remnants of fires. Besides making your chimney look unkempt, your risk of a chimney fire rises if you leave heaps of ash in your fireplace. 

When you light a fire in an ash-filled fireplace, the ashes rise to the top and adhere to your flue liner, generating more creosote, which increases the chances of a chimney fire. 

Furthermore, chimneys covered in ash retain smoke and dangerous gases like carbon monoxide, which puts your family at risk of death. 

To prevent this from happening, sweep the ash from your fireplace once the fire has gone out and it is cool to the touch. 

It’s always recommended that you wait a few days to ensure no hot embers are left before you dispose of the ashes. After that, you can either dispose of the ashes per your local laws or use them as fertilizer in your garden.

Unlike chimney cleaning and inspection, you don’t need to hire a professional to help remove the ash. You can always do it by yourself. You are good to go as long as you have the necessary tools and properly dispose of it properly. 

Burn the right wood.

The kindling you use greatly affects the amount of creosote your chimney produces and the efficiency with which a fire burns.

Due to this, you need to be cautious and ensure that you always burn the best firewood. 

To choose the best firewood, consider the following advice:

• Consistently burn seasoned, dry wood. Seasoned wood produces fewer toxic byproducts and burns more efficiently.
• If the wood in your fire is wet, forgo it. Smoke and creosote are produced when damp wood is burned.
• Avoid burning driftwood. This is because driftwood’s salt content weakens a chimney’s structural integrity. 
• Don’t use evergreen wood. This is because more smoke is produced when evergreen wood is burned.
• Use wood floors. Select hardwoods as opposed to softwoods. Hardwoods stay longer, burn hotter, and release less creosote.

Always strive to build a proper fire regardless of the wood you use. Put the bigger logs in the fireplace at the bottom and the smaller ones on top. To get the fire started, use kindling or fire starters. Keep in mind that packing the fireplace too full with wood will impede airflow, so be cautious with the amount of wood you use. 

Install a chimney cap.

A chimney fire can start from debris in your chimney, which is dangerous. To prevent this from happening, you should install a chimney cap. 

Chimney caps are like little roofs that cover the aperture of your chimney. They deflect debris and let smoke and dangerous gases out, preventing chimney fires and keeping your family safe.

Chimney covers shield your fireplace from animals and garbage and stop sparks from lighting a fire on your land. 

In some cases, they trap animals, which can work against you. If you think there may be birds or other wildlife trapped in your chimney, give a professional animal removal specialist a call so that they can look into the issue. 

Install a flue liner.

Your chimney’s inside walls are insulated by flue liners composed of metal or ceramic. Installing a stainless steel flue liner tolerating extremely high temperatures will yield the best results.

When it comes to curbing chimney fires, flue liners play a major role in trapping and directing heat and combustion byproducts away from the interior walls of the chimney, where creosote buildup might ignite.

To provide adequate combustion and the evacuation of smoke and gases from the chimney, flue liners aid in maintaining a constant and effective draft in the chimney. This lessens the possibility of smoke entering your home and helps minimize backdrafts.

For peace of mind that your flue liner is installed correctly and will work properly, have it installed by experienced chimney contractors Upper Marlboro who know what they are doing. 

The post Tips to Avoid Chimney Fires During Winter first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

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When it comes to your home’s chimney, there’s more than meets the eye. Beyond the warm hearth and cozy ambiance lies a vital, yet often overlooked element: the chimney liner.

Though concealed within the chimney’s core, these liners are pivotal in safeguarding your dwelling, optimizing heating efficiency, and ensuring a positive fireplace experience.

In this blog, we’ll unravel the complexities of chimney liners and help you understand and choose the best chimney liner for your home. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or embarking on your chimney adventure, understanding chimney liners is your key to a safer, more efficient, and more enjoyable home.

The Basics of Chimney Liners

Chimney liners, also known as flue liners, serve as protective barriers inside your chimney, and they are essential for several reasons:

• Fire Hazard Prevention: Liners prevent the escape of embers, heat, and flammable gases into the chimney’s structural components, reducing the risk of chimney fires.
• Corrosion and Moisture Protection: They shield the chimney from moisture intrusion, preventing the deterioration of bricks and mortar due to freezing and thawing cycles.
• Improved Efficiency: Liners facilitate smooth airflow, ensuring efficient draft and optimal appliance performance.
• Easier Cleaning: A smooth, intact liner makes chimney cleaning less challenging and more effective.

Types of Chimney Liners

Clay Tile Liners

Clay tile liners are the tried-and-true choice for many chimney owners. Crafted from terracotta clay, they are assembled from individual sections stacked and sealed together, providing durability, heat resistance, and excellent insulation.

Considerations

• While clay tile liners are a solid choice for traditional masonry chimneys primarily used for wood-burning, they may not be the best fit for all situations.
• These liners are susceptible to cracking from temperature fluctuations, making them less ideal for fireplace inserts or wood stoves.
• Repairing, replacing, or installing clay tile liners can be labor-intensive and potentially costly in the long run.

When to Choose

Opt for clay tile liners if you have a traditional masonry chimney and mainly burn wood. They are cost-effective and effective in open chimney systems and traditional setups.

Metal Liners

Stainless steel or aluminum metal liners step in as a more resilient alternative to clay tiles. These liners are particularly suitable for fireplaces, inserts, and wood stoves where temperature variations are common. They exhibit durability, heat resistance, and compatibility with various fuels, including wood, gas, and oil.

Considerations

• Metal liners, especially those crafted from stainless steel, can be pricier compared to other options.
• Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential to ensure optimal performance with metal liners.

When to Choose

Consider a metal chimney liner if you have a modern chimney system or use a variety of fuels for heating. They excel with gas appliances or high-efficiency wood-burning systems.

Cast-in-Place Liners

Cast-in-place liners offer a tailored solution by pouring a specialized mixture of cement, insulation, and other materials inside the chimney. This process creates a seamless lining that conforms precisely to the chimney’s shape, ensuring an airtight seal and withstanding high temperatures.

Considerations

• The installation of cast-in-place liners typically requires professional expertise and can be time-consuming.
• This liner type tends to be more expensive, but it provides long-lasting protection against heat and corrosion.

When to Choose

Select a cast-in-place chimney liner if your chimney has a unique shape, or existing damage, or if you seek a durable, customized solution for optimal chimney safeguarding.

How to Choose the Right Chimney Liner

Now that we’ve explored the different types of chimney liners let’s discuss choosing the right one for your specific needs. Making an informed choice involves considering various factors:

Appliance Type and Fuel

Determine the type of appliance connected to your chimney (e.g., wood stove, gas fireplace, oil furnace).

Match the liner to the fuel type. For example, stainless steel liners are versatile and suitable for various fuels, while clay tile liners may not be ideal for high-heat appliances like pellet stoves.

Local Regulations

It’s important to get familiar with the building codes and safety regulations in your area. These guidelines often dictate liner material, insulation requirements, and installation methods. Ensure that your chosen liner complies with these regulations to avoid potential legal issues and safety hazards.

Chimney Condition

Assess the current condition of your chimney. If it’s in disrepair, consider a cast-in-place liner, which can restore structural integrity while providing a new liner. For existing chimneys in good condition, clay tile or metal liners may suffice.

Liner Insulation

Pay attention to insulation. Insulated liners improve draft and reduce heat transfer to combustible materials, enhancing safety and efficiency. Depending on your climate, local regulations may mandate specific insulation requirements.

Budget and Longevity

Balance your budget with long-term considerations. While clay tile liners are cost-effective, stainless steel and cast-in-place liners offer extended durability and longevity.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Consider the maintenance requirements of your chosen liner type. Some liners may require more frequent inspections and cleaning. So, make sure to factor in ongoing maintenance costs when making your decision.

Making the Best Choice for Your Home

Choosing the right chimney liner is a critical decision that impacts your chimney system’s safety, efficiency, and longevity. You can make an informed choice by evaluating your appliance type, fuel, local regulations, and chimney condition.

Remember that professional consultation is invaluable in ensuring the correct liner selection and installation — making sure that you and your family enjoy a warm, cozy home with peace of mind, knowing that your chimney system is operating at its best.

Want to discuss the liner options available? Call us at (678) 744-4046 to get a free consultation or visit SouthernChimneys.com.

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This post first appeared on https://southernchimneys.com

Fire Safety Week is nationally observed annually from October 9th to 15^th. It is meant to serve as an essential reminder of the importance of fire safety in our homes and communities. This week is a time to reflect on the potential hazards that fires pose and to take proactive measures to prevent them.

At Best Chimney, we understand how important Fire Safety Week is and we are dedicated to promoting fire safety year-round.  By having safety measures in place, we can:

Prevent Tragedy: Fires can lead to devastating consequences, including loss of life, property damage, and emotional trauma. Fire Safety Week serves as a reminder that fire prevention measures are not just important; they can be lifesaving.

Raise Awareness: Many fire hazards can go unnoticed until it’s too late. Fire Safety Week helps raise awareness about common fire risks, such as faulty wiring, flammable materials, and neglected fireplaces, encouraging individuals to take action.

Best Chimney’s Commitment to Fire Safety

At Best Chimney, we recognize that fire safety goes hand in hand with chimney and fireplace maintenance. A well-maintained chimney and fireplace not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home but also play a crucial role in fire prevention.

Here’s how Best Chimney can help you stay safe during Fire Safety Week and beyond:  (read more)

Chimney Inspections:

Regular chimney inspections are essential to identify potential fire hazards, such as creosote buildup and chimney blockages. Best Chimney offers thorough chimney inspections to ensure your chimney is safe and in good working condition.

Chimney Cleaning:

Creosote buildup in your chimney can ignite and lead to a dangerous chimney fire. Best Chimney provides professional chimney cleaning services to remove creosote and other debris, reducing the risk of fire.

Fireplace Maintenance:

Proper maintenance of your fireplace and its components is crucial for fire safety. Best Chimney can inspect and repair your fireplace to ensure it functions safely and efficiently.

Installation of a Lining System:

Installing a lining system, whether steel or ceramic (HeatShield), can protect your home from excessive heat generated by your fireplace and smooth your venting system to discourage creosote buildup. Best Chimney offers stock and custom solutions to keep your home safe and comfortable.

As Fire Safety Week approaches from October 9th to 15th, it’s essential to prioritize fire safety in your home. We are committed to helping you protect your family and property by providing professional chimney and fireplace services. By taking preventative measures and staying informed about fire safety, you can enjoy peace of mind and a safer living environment throughout the year.

Schedule your chimney inspection now so we can make your home safer and more secure.

 

The post Stay Safe and Secure: Best Chimney’s Commitment to Fire Safety Week appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

Are you looking into removing your chimney? We know that is no small decision and want to help provide some insights into the chimney removal process so that there are no surprises. There are some scenarios in which it makes sense to have your chimney removed. For example, if you have a drafty chimney, need space for home renovation projects, or have a chimney that has a high potential of leaking as it ages, chimney removal would be your best option. Since chimney removal is a large project that involves a number of professionals, it’s important that you are aware of the criteria which make chimney removal the best next step.

Do You Think Your Chimney Needs to Be Removed?

When considering getting any sort of chimney work done, you should connect with chimney professionals. This is especially true when you are considering chimney removal. Best Chimney Services, located in Dedham, MA has over 30 years of experience working on residential and commercial chimneys. With our experience, you can trust that your chimney is in the best care. You can schedule a chimney service estimate with Best Chimney Services to get started in the process!

When to Have Your Chimney Removed

In our experience as chimney professionals, we have found a few instances in which chimney removal is the best option for you and your home. If you have an ongoing leak in your chimney that is causing issues when lighting your fireplace or causing drafts within your house, removing your chimney may be your best option. Rebuilding a chimney from the ground up in this case would be a large budget project within the $10,000+ range, which many homeowners cannot justify. Another reason we have seen chimneys removed is to gain extra space in home renovations. Generally, a chimney on the end of your home would limit you to only expanding on one side of your home, so if you’re looking for more space, you can remove your chimney. Many choose to include chimney removal alongside other home renovations to cause fewer disruptions in their schedule by getting everything done at once.

When Is Chimney Removal Avoidable?

Although we outlined three great reasons to move forward with chimney removal, there are also many instances in which chimney removal may not be needed. If you’re experiencing chimney leaks, there’s a great chance that they can be repaired through masonry services such as chimney waterproofing. As mentioned, you don’t want to jump to assuming your chimney needs to be removed. You can often find alternative solutions by working with a chimney service professional like Best Chimney Services.

When Is Chimney Removal Impossible?

Many may assume that all chimneys can be removed, but unfortunately that isn’t always the case. If you are living in a historical home, you would need to check with your local commission before removing your chimneyl. Historical homes are often protected under local ordinances, in which you need prior approval before beginning any construction. Another instance in which chimney removal would be impossible is if the chimney is being used by heating or hot water equipment. Just because you don’t see a fireplace, that doesn’t mean that your chimney is obsolete. Some HVAC systems have connections into the chimney with flue piping. This allows the HVAC system to vent through your chimney. If you use this kind of system, you should have the feasibility of direct venting evaluated before even exploring chimney removal. Keep in mind that direct venting units can be costly!

Extra Tips to Keep Your Chimney in Top Condition

Just as you take care of other areas of your home, chimney care is an important part of home ownership and can help prevent removal down the road.

Get Your Chimney Inspected

A great way to ensure your chimney is in top condition is by scheduling a chimney inspection. Whether using your chimney in conjunction with your fireplace or your chimney serves as a vent to your heating system, it’s vital to have your chimney inspected to avoid issues from leaks, blockages, and structural damages. If you’re not sure if your chimney needs to be inspected now, you can read our blog “Do I Need a Chimney Inspection?” for more details.

Schedule an Annual Chimney Sweeping

It is best practice to schedule an annual chimney sweeping to ensure your fireplace is safe for use. A chimney sweep can help clean out any blockages or build-up that can cause serious issues in the future. You can learn more about how often a chimney should be swept in our blog, as some chimneys can benefit from more frequent sweeping services.

Schedule Necessary Masonry Services

In the process of getting your chimney inspected or swept, the chimney service professionals may note a need for masonry services. Masonry services include chimney rebuilding, chimney pointing, and waterproofing. Chimney pointing is essentially a repair process in which the chimney’s bricks are in good condition, but the mortar joints are weakening. In this process, the chimney repair professionals would remove some of the existing mortar and replace it with new mortar to strengthen the structural integrity. You can learn more about Best Chimney Service’s masonry services here.

Do You Still Think You Need Your Chimney Removed?

If you’ve read through this article and still feel that you need your chimney removed, contact Best Chimney Services for servicing in the Boston, MA area. We also provide inspections, chimney sweeping, chimney repairs, masonry services, and various installations. We’ve been in business for over thirty years and look forward to serving you!

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