Preventing Chimney Fire Damage: 5 Simple Tips

3/24/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO for emergency fire restoration services!

Proper maintenance and yearly inspections are two of the primary keys for preventing chimney fire damage!

A chimney fire can cause a lot of damage to your home; it can also create dangerous fumes that can seep into your home.

Every chimney has the potential for chimney fire damage. (Chimneys are designed to draw air up, not down.) So, if you have a chimney in your home or office, it's essential to know how to prevent chimney fire damage

One of the best ways to do this is by getting your chimney cleaned and inspected regularly. The Chimney Safety Institute of America recommends having your chimney cleaned and inspected at least once a year or more if you use your fireplace frequently.

How does a chimney fire start?

A chimney fire can start for several reasons, but the most common is creosote buildup. Creosote is a black or brown substance that forms when wood and other fuels are burned. It can build up quickly, especially if your chimney isn't cleaned often. This buildup can ignite, creating the potential for chimney fire damage.

Other causes of chimney fires include bird nests, leaves, and other debris that can block the chimney. This blockage can cause the smoke to back up into your home, which can be dangerous.

How do you know if you have a chimney fire?

There are a few signs that you may have a chimney fire:

• You may see flames or sparks coming from the chimney.
• You may hear a loud roaring noise.
• You may see smoke coming from the chimney, even when the fireplace isn't in use.
• The outside of the chimney may be hot to the touch.
• The room where the fireplace is located may feel unusually warm.

Why is a chimney fire dangerous?

Chimney fires are dangerous because they can cause extensive fire damage and smoke damage to your home. They can also spew soot throughout your property. So if you see flames or sparks coming from your chimney or smoke coming from the chimney even when the fireplace isn't in use, it's crucial to call the fire department right away.

5 tips for preventing chimney fire damage

Chimney fires can cause a lot of damage to your home, so it's important to prevent them. Here are five tips for avoiding chimney fire damage:

1. Get your chimney cleaned and inspected. The Chimney Safety Institute of America recommends cleaning and inspecting your chimney at least once a year.
2. Keep the chimney free of debris. Keep the chimney clean of leaves, sticks, and other debris by using a chimney cap that covers the top of your chimney.
3. Don't burn green wood. Green wood is more likely to cause creosote buildup. Instead, burn dry, seasoned wood.
4. Use a chimney liner. When it's in good shape, a chimney liner can help protect the chimney from heat and fire damage.
5. Ensure your fireplace gets enough air by keeping the fireplace doors open. With proper airflow, fires burn hotter, leading to less creosote buildup, reducing your chances for chimney fire damage.

If you follow these tips, you can help prevent chimney fire damage in your home. A clean, well-maintained chimney is the best defense against chimney fires. If you have any concerns about your chimney, contact a professional for an inspection.

SERVPRO of North Bethesda: expert chimney fire damage cleanup

If you have a chimney in your home or office, it's essential to be aware of the signs of a chimney fire and know how to prevent them. A chimney fire can cause extensive damage and create dangerous fumes that can seep into your home. Call the fire department right away if you see any signs of a chimney fire.

Once the fire is out, you'll need to contact a professional chimney fire damage cleanup company like SERVPRO of North Bethesda to help clean up the damage and restore your home or office. We have the experience and knowledge to safely and effectively clean up chimney fire damage. So call us today for a free consultation—we'll make your property "Like it never even happened."