Common Fireplace Problems That Affect Functionality

Having a fireplace at home is an easy way to stay cozy and warm during the winter months. Before the winter starts, you’ll want to make sure your fireplace is working properly so that you don’t miss out on any extra warmth.

Issues with your fireplace often go unnoticed until it is too late to fix them, which is why it’s so important to have your chimney inspected regularly. Here are some of the most common fireplace problems and how to deal with them.

Blocked Chimney

One of the most common problems you’ll encounter with any fireplace is a blocked chimney. Branches and other debris can easily make their way in from the top of the chimney and get stuck there. It’s also not uncommon for rodents to get stuck in your chimney or for birds to nest there.

When your chimney is blocked, it cannot ventilate properly. This traps smoke, carbon monoxide, and other toxic gases inside your home when you use your fireplace and poses a huge health risk. If you think your chimney is blocked, avoid using the fireplace and hire a professional right away to fix the problem.

Water Damage

Water damage to your chimney usually starts off small and can be difficult to detect. If you live in a cold area, snow and ice can build up on the outside of your chimney. When that snow and ice melts, it makes its way inside. The water can slowly start to erode the masonry of your chimney, eventually resulting in serious structural damage.

There are things you can do to prevent water damage from happening. Chimney caps are very effective in preventing water from getting indoors. Installing a chimney liner or waterproof sealant can provide even more protection.

Creosote Buildup

Creosote is a by-product of wood-burning fires. Over time, this creosote builds up and forms a deposit in your fireplace and along the walls of your chimney. Creosote is easy to remove in its early stages but gets much more difficult to remove as it hardens.

Creosote buildup may look harmless, but it is actually very flammable, which makes it a major fire hazard. Thick creosote buildup can also limit the air flow in your chimney, making it difficult to ventilate properly. You can prevent creosote from building up by cleaning your chimney after each fire. However, it also helps to have a professional chimney sweep clean your fireplace at least once per year.

Unsafe Fires

Many people don’t realize that they are building unsafe fires at home. Before starting the fire, you’ll want to make sure the flue and damper are open to let out smoke and gas from the fire. It’s also very important to make sure you’re using safe materials to build your fire. Burning items that are not firewood can be very dangerous. Ideally, you’ll want to use seasoned firewood that contains very little moisture, as this helps minimize creosote buildup.

If you haven’t had your chimney inspected recently, now is a great time to check for any of these problems. Chimney Specialists Inc. provides professional chimney inspections and repairs throughout southwest Wisconsin, northern Illinois, and eastern Iowa. Give us a call at (608)-929-4887 or contact us online to make an appointment!