How to Maintain a Masonry Chimney

 

Maintaining a masonry chimney is essential for ensuring its longevity and functionality. A well-maintained chimney not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home but also plays a crucial role in the safety and efficiency of your heating system. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the various aspects of chimney maintenance, from identifying signs of damage to performing regular inspections and repairs.

Understanding the Importance of Chimney Maintenance

Chimneys are exposed to various environmental factors, including rain, snow, and extreme temperatures, which can lead to deterioration over time. Regular maintenance is vital for preventing costly repairs and ensuring the safety of your home. Here are some key reasons why chimney maintenance should be a priority:

Safety Concerns

A poorly maintained chimney can pose serious safety hazards, including the risk of chimney fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. Creosote buildup, a byproduct of burning wood, can ignite and cause a fire within the chimney. Regular cleaning and inspections can help mitigate these risks.

Structural Integrity

Over time, moisture can seep into the masonry, leading to cracks and deterioration. If left unaddressed, these issues can compromise the structural integrity of the chimney, potentially leading to costly repairs or even collapse.

Efficiency

A well-maintained chimney ensures proper ventilation for your fireplace or heating system. Blockages or damage can hinder airflow, reducing the efficiency of your heating system and increasing energy costs.

Signs of Damage to Look For

Being proactive in identifying signs of damage can save you from more extensive repairs down the line. Here are some common indicators that your chimney may need attention:

Cracks and Gaps

Inspect the exterior of your chimney for visible cracks or gaps in the bricks or mortar joints. These can develop due to thermal expansion, settling of the foundation, or freeze-thaw cycles. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage.

Spalling Bricks

Spalling occurs when the surface of the bricks begins to flake or chip away, exposing the inner layers. This can be caused by moisture infiltration, rain, and freeze-thaw cycles. Spalling not only affects the appearance of your chimney but also compromises its structural integrity. If you see spalling bricks, have them replaced. If a large area of the chimney is spalling it may need to be rebuilt. Soft bricks are more susceptible to moisture penetration than hard bricks, but unfortunately, builders use soft bricks in many cases because they are less expensive. 

Effleorescence

Efflorescence

Efflorescence appears as white stains on the chimney surface, caused by the migration of salts to the surface due to moisture evaporation. While not harmful in itself, it can indicate underlying moisture issues in the interior that need to be addressed. In most cases, efflorescense is seen on the utility flue side where the water heater, furnace, or boiler are located. Inspection of the interior flues in the chimney are critical to check for washed out mortar joints, gaps, or even missing flue tiles, and properly sized flue liners. 

Water Stains

Look for water stains on the ceiling or walls near the chimney. These can indicate leaks caused by damaged flashing or deteriorated chimney crowns. If left unchecked, water intrusion can lead to mold growth and wood rot. The chimney should be inspected by a professional, who knows how to do leak checks and find the source(s) of the problem. 

Smoke and Odors

If you notice smoke or unpleasant odors entering your home when using the fireplace, it may indicate blockages or airflow problems. Common causes include creosote buildup or debris obstructing the flue.

Regular Inspections: A Key Component of Maintenance

Conducting regular inspections is crucial for identifying potential issues before they escalate. Here’s how to approach chimney inspections:

Frequency of Inspections

It is recommended to have your chimney inspected at least once a year by a qualified professional chimney sweep. This ensures that any signs of damage or deterioration are caught early.

What to Expect During an Inspection

During a professional inspection, the technician will assess the condition of the chimney structure, check for signs of damage, and recommend necessary repairs or maintenance. They will also inspect the flue for blockages, make sure the damper is functioning correctly, check for proper sizing of the flue liner, inspect the smoke chamber, ensure that the chimney cap is in good condition and more. A pro will use a chimney camera system to inspect the interior of the chimney and provide a written report with photos. 

Cleaning Your Chimney

Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining the safety and efficiency of your chimney. Here’s how to approach chimney cleaning:

When to Clean

Schedule a professional chimney cleaning at least once a year, or more frequently if you use your fireplace or wood-burning insert regularly. If you notice a buildup of soot or creosote, it’s time for a cleaning.

DIY Cleaning Tips

If you choose to clean your chimney yourself, ensure that you have the proper tools, including a properly sized chimney brush, a vacuum, tarps, and protective gear. Start by removing the fireplace grate and any ashes, then use the brush to scrub the flue from top to bottom. Note: we do not recommend doing this job yourself unless a pro is not available. 

Waterproofing Your Chimney

Applying a waterproof treatment can help protect your chimney from moisture damage. Here’s what you need to know:

Benefits of Waterproofing

Waterproofing helps prevent water absorption, which can lead to brick deterioration and weakening or deterioration of mortar. It is recommended to reapply the sealant every 2-5 years or when water no longer beads up. Professional chimney sweeps have access to professional-grade water repellent that is not available to the public.

Installing a Chimney Cover

A chimney cap serves as a protective barrier against rain, snow, debris, and animals entering your chimney. Here’s why it’s important:

Benefits of a Chimney Cover

A properly installed chimney cap helps prevent moisture damage and reduces the risk of chimney fires caused by debris buildup. It also keeps birds and animals from entering your chimney and making flammable nests or blockages.

Maintenance of the Chimney Cover

Regularly inspect the chimney cap to ensure it is securely in place and free of debris. If you notice any damage, consider replacing it promptly.

Monitoring for Damage

Being vigilant about monitoring your chimney can help catch issues early. Here are some tips:

Visual Inspections

Conduct monthly visual inspections of your chimney and fireplace. Look for loose bricks, cracks, or signs of water damage. If you notice any issues, contact a professional for further assessment.

Seasonal Maintenance

Perform seasonal maintenance checks, especially before and after the burning season. In the spring, inspect and clean your chimney to remove smelly creosote and assure it is ready for fall. Also check for any damage that may have occurred during the winter.

Safe Burning Practices

Practicing safe burning techniques can help minimize creosote buildup and protect your chimney. Here’s how:

Use Seasoned Wood

Always use seasoned hardwoods in your fireplace or wood-burning stove. These woods produce less creosote compared to unseasoned or softwoods, however, all wood creates creosote that must be removed at some point. Do not burn hedge or dry pine because these woods burn very hot and fast and can lead to a chimney fire. Check moisture content with a moisture meter and make sure it is at or under 20%. 

Avoid Burning Trash

Never burn trash, cardboard, wrapping paper, railroad ties, or other materials that can release harmful chemicals and contribute to chimney damage. Stick to burning only dry, seasoned wood.

Scheduling Professional Repairs

If you notice significant damage or structural issues with your chimney, it’s essential to contact a certified chimney professional for repairs. Here’s what to consider:

Choosing a Professional

Look for a chimney service provider with experience and positive reviews. Ensure they are certified and knowledgeable about masonry repairs.

Importance of Timely Repairs

Addressing chimney issues promptly can prevent further damage and ensure the safety and efficiency of your heating system. Don’t wait until minor problems escalate into major headaches.

Conclusion

Maintaining a masonry chimney is crucial for ensuring its longevity, safety, and efficiency. By conducting regular inspections, cleaning, and addressing any signs of damage promptly, you can keep your chimney functional for years to come. Remember, when in doubt, consult a professional to ensure that your chimney remains a safe and reliable part of your home.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of your fireplace with confidence, knowing that your chimney is well-maintained and safe for use.

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Marge Padgitt is the co-owner of HearthMasters and HearthMasters Publishing. She was a Certified Chimney Sweep from 1990-2004, and an NFI Certified Woodburning Specialist from 2003-2024, when she semi-retired from contracting. Marge is the author of Wood-Fired Heating and Cooking, Your House is Killing You, and The Chimney and Hearth Pro's Resource Book. www.chimkc.com 

Chimney Fire in Prairie Village, KS Captured on Camera

 

A chimney fire occurred in February of 2023 in the 4600 block of West 82^nd St, Prairie Village Kansas. The neighbor captured photos of the fire department putting out the fire and sent them to us. The neighbor happens to be a client of HearthMasters. Since it is not common to get photos of chimney fires while they are in progress, we decided to post this event in order to warn people about the dangers of chimney fires.

Chimney fires occur when flammable creosote ignites inside a smoke chamber or flue due to an errant spark, a fire that is too large, or the use of paper, which can be pulled upward by draft and ignite the creosote. The amount of creosote inside the flue, along with draft, will determine how long the fire keeps going.

Most chimney fires are extinguished by expanding creosote, and often homeowners are unaware that they occurred. The damage may be found later by a chimney sweep. The interior and exterior of a chimney may be severely damaged by expansion and contraction caused by the heat of a chimney fire, making it unusable, and causing thousands of dollars of damage. Chimney fire damage is covered by homeowner’s insurance.

Some chimney fires are noticed at the time the occur, and that is when the fire department is called to put it out. Homeowners should always call the fire department when a fire occurs because it might not be contained inside the chimney if there are any breechings in the masonry or if combustible framing is incorrectly installed next to the chimney, which unfortunately happens too often. 

One of our customers stayed up all night watching his house after a chimney fire occurred, and had to call the fire department back three times because it kept reigniting combustible framing in the wall area. Had he not stayed up the house may have burned completely, 

After a chimney fire has occurred, the chimney should be inspected by a qualified professional chimney sweep using a chimney camera. If damages are found, which is very likely, the sweep should document the damages with photos and a written evaluation report for insurance purposes. Homeowners should not attempt to remove burnt creosote or do an inspection themselves.

Close up of firemen on the roof

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Marge Padgitt is president of HearthMasters, Inc. in Independence, Missouri. She is the author of The Chimney and Hearth Pro's Resource Book and Wood-Fired Heating and Cooking. www.chimkc.com 

Holiday Decor Ideas for Fireplaces 2022

During the holidays, people usually place decor on mantels and around the focal point of the house - the fireplace. Here are some inspiring ideas. Remember to keep stockings away from the front of the fireplace as they can be a fire hazard, and never burn a Christmas tree in the fireplace because they burn too hot and too fast and can cause a house fire. 

Fireplace not working? No problem - use candles for a welcoming atmosphere. 

Above and left: These faux fireplaces work great for focal points for your holiday decorations. 

Real fireplace - real fire - and nice decor without any stockings hanging down in front of the fireplace. We give this one an A+!

Whoops!  Looks nice, but do you see the problem? 

A stunning historical fireplace that is nicely done

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Marge Padgitt is the president of HearthMasters, Inc. and author of Wood-Fired Heating and Cooking. www.woodfiredpub.com or www.chimkc.com. Sign up for blog notices so you don't miss an article!

How to avoid chimney fires

Chimney fires occur during cold weather months when people use their chimneys. A chimney fire occurs when accumulated creosote in a flue or smoke chamber ignites from a spark.

All wood creates creosote - even dry hardwoods- so it is imperative that flues serving fireplaces or wood-burning stoves, or fireplace inserts are swept regularly to remove this flammable substance. The NFPA recommends sweeping once per year for fireplaces, and at least twice during the season for heating appliances (wood stoves or inserts). A house fire can occur if the fire in the chimney escapes the flue liner or if burning embers fly out of the top of the chimney onto the roof. (Asphalt roofs can catch fire as well as wood shingle roofs). 

Most chimney fires are of short duration and go unnoticed by the homeowner - with damages usually found later during an inspection by a chimney sweep. 

 

Signs of a chimney fire:

•  Loud whooshing or roaring or freight train like sound
•  Flames shooting out the top of the chimney
•  Red glowing stove pipe
•  Backup of smoke into the house
• Sudden poor draft

It is a good idea to keep a chimney fire extinguisher near your fireplace or wood stove and use it if you notice a chimney fire, then get out of the house and call the fire department immediately. Fire can spread to nearby combustibles and cause a house fire. Be sure to keep an eye out for smoke smell or flames even after the fire department is gone because interior wood framing could smolder for hours afterwards and ignite if it gets enough oxygen. 

 

Blown out section of tile liner

After the fire: Call your local professional chimney sweep to have a thorough inspection and any needed repairs completed before using the appliance again. Most chimneys are severely damaged on the interior during a chimney fire and should not be used until inspected by a qualified professional. Any breaks or blown out sections in flue tiles or warped or buckled seams in steel liners or chimneys can be a fire and Carbon Monoxide hazard.

For more information about Carbon Monoxide, visit COHeadquarters.com.

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The Chimney Lady, Marge Padgitt, is a veteran chimney professional, trainer, and author. She is the co-owner of HearthMasters chimney and fireplace service in Kansas City, Missouri. Contact her at office@chimkc.com.

Tis the Season for Chimney Fires

 

By Marge Padgitt

Chimney Fire: Source: Marlboro FD, VA

It’s that time of year again – the season for chimney fires. As a chimney and fireplace service company we see the results of the lack of proper maintenance and improper installation that can cause fires and destruction of property, and in some cases injury or death. Chimney fires are preventable and should be avoided because of the risk that they could escape the chimney and catch the house on fire.  

All types of wood – even hardwood- creates creosote when burned. It accumulates on flue and smoke chamber walls and must be periodically removed. Chimney sweeping should be done by a professional chimney sweep who has the proper equipment to do the job right. First, tarps and a vacuum are set up. Then the sweep brushes the flue with wire brushes for masonry flues, or poly brushes for metal flues, and removes the creosote from the flue and fireplace or wood stove. Next, the sweep should run a chimney camera through the chamber and flue to inspect it and make sure there are no broken flue tiles, missing mortar, or blockages, or in the case of a manufactured fireplace or stove, that all of the metal pipe seams are solid and unwarped. The chimney sweep will then do a visual inspection of the interior and exterior chimney, check for proper clearance to combustibles and proper installation of components, then provide a report on its condition.

Chimney sweep  Source: Adobestock.com

It is very common for repair issues to arise with any type of chimney. Regular maintenance is
needed in order to keep the system functioning properly. Exterior masonry repairs should be done in the spring or summer, but if the chimney needs a new flue liner this can be done any time of year. Chimney fires can cause costly damage to a masonry or metal chimney system. If relining is necessary, it will cost thousands of dollars. Fortunately, chimney fires are covered by homeowner’s insurance. However, it is best to avoid a chimney fire in the first place.  

According to the U.S. Fire Administration there were 83,300 house fires caused by heating in 2018.  The National Fire Protection Association’s latest press release dated November 22, 2010 estimates that 66,100 home fires caused 1.1 billion in property damage, 1,660 injuries and 480 deaths in 2008, which was a 0.5% decline from 2007.  15,200 (23%) of all home heating fires are creosote fires, which the NFPA calls “failure to clean” fires that were confined to a chimney or flue, or involved solid-fueled space heaters, chimneys, connectors, and fireplaces.  See the entire news release at www.nfpa.org

Tips:

1.       Never burn a dry Christmas tree in a fireplace.

2.       Only burn dry, seasoned hard or soft cordwood in a stove or fireplace

3.       Only burn one piece of hedge to two pieces of other types of wood.

4.       Have the chimney inspected and swept annually, or twice per season if using a wood stove.

5.       Have a Draw Collar installed for hard-starting wood stoves.

6.       When purchasing a new home have the chimney inspected by a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep prior to closing so you know what you are getting into.

7.       If you hear a whooshing sound, or freight-train like sound, or the room fills with smoke, get out of the house and call the fire department. Go outside and see if flames are shooting out the top of the flue.

 

See more information about chimney and fireplace maintenance and how to choose an appliance in Marge and Gene Padgitt’s new book Wood-Fired Heating and Cooking: How to choose, maintain, and operate a wood-burning appliance at Amazon.com or hearthmasters.net.

How to Avoid a Chimney Fire that Can Lead to a House Fire

House fire caused by flammable
creosote and improper construction

Creosote is a flammable substance that must be removed from the flue and smoke chamber periodically in order to avoid having a chimney fire. 

Since all wood creates creosote, including dry hardwoods, creosote is impossible to avoid when burning wood in a fireplace, wood-burning stove, circulating fireplace, or stove insert.

Creosote can only be removed by brushing the flue and chamber out with wire or poly brushes that are made especially for this purpose. Professional chimney sweeps know what size and type of brush to use for the type of flue system installed. There are many different types of venting systems, so knowing how to properly maintain each type is critical.

In a masonry chimney with a wood-burning fireplace the most common type of flue system is made out of vitreous clay tile, and the smoke chamber is usually made out of brick, stone, or block. This type of venting system accumulates more creosote than a stainless steel flue liner does because it is more porous.

Stainless steel flue liners don't accumulate as much creosote if they are properly insulated and installed correctly, but can be damaged by a chimney fire so maintenance is necessary.

Smoke chambers that are not parge coated with insulating mortar per IRC Code requirements allow more creosote accumulation due to their rough surfaces and corbels which decrease the flow of smoke and tar vapours.

The National Fire Protection Association and the National Chimney Sweep Guild recommend that creosote be removed after 1/8" accumulation on flue walls.

Gene Padgitt Sweeping a masonry chimney

The creosote being removed should be stage 1 which is very light and ash-like, or stage 2 which is more dense. If there is any accumulation of stage 3 glazed baked-on tar-like creosote, something is not right with the system, the fuel being used, or the operation of the appliance. Stage 3 creosote is the most flammable type, and is most often associated with chimney fires.

A chimney fire occurs when a spark ignites the flammable creosote, usually in the smoke chamber just above the damper, and flame may spread through the remaining fuel source (creosote) on the flue walls.

Stage 3 Creosote on flue walls

Chimney fires can be of short or long duration, but almost always cause damage to the smoke chamber and flue liner due to the quick temperature differential that occurs to the masonry during a chimney fire. Damages may occur to the face wall above the fireplace opening inside the house, to the back wall of the chimney, or to the top portion of the chimney and cement cap due to expansion. Fresh breaks may be found in the masonry and cement cap in a masonry chimney.

Burnt creosote that has been on fire

In a manufactured fireplace and metal chimney damages may occur to the metal smoke chamber and metal chimney pipe in the form of buckling, warping, and opening of seams. With a Class A chimney system serving a wood-burning stove, the same type of damage can occur.

In either case, the damage must be repaired, or parts replaced before further use because the system is no longer functional if it has damages.

Unfortunately, most chimney fire damage is found only during inspection of the system during routine chimney cleaning/inspection maintenance by a professional chimney sweep. Most chimney fires go unnoticed by homeowners when the fire occurs because they either don't recognize the whoosh of air and increased draft during a chimney fire, or are out of the room when it occurs and the fires goes out before they return.

Burnt, honeycomb creosote that has
been burned in a chimney fire

After a fire has damaged a chimney system, the flue liner and chamber may have cracks and gaps that would allow a second fire to escape to nearby combustible wood framing. This is how a house fire due to chimney fire commonly occurs. Another way a house fire can occur is if flame and sparks shooting out the top of the chimney catch the roof on fire.

chimney inspection with a Chim-Scan Camera

Water damage from rain and condensing acidic flue gasses often causes mortar joints between tile liner sections to deteriorate and leave gaps, which may also allow heat and flame to escape the flue system and cause a house fire.

The only way to know if the flue system has damages is to sweep it first to remove creosote, then run a special chimney camera through the chamber and flue. Photos may be taken with this type of camera. If damages are found, do not use the appliance until it is properly repaired by a professional chimney contractor.
 

Break in clay tile flue liner

In the greater Kansas City area, call HearthMasters, Inc. for chimney maintenance, repair, and building.  

www.chimkc.com

816-461-3665

Signs of a Chimney Fire Everyone Should Know

By Marge Padgitt
HearthMasters, Inc.  

Chimney fires are more common than most people realize. Most chimney fires occur without the

homeowner noticing because the fire often is snuffed out by expanding creosote inside the chimney.

Chimney fires can occur in chimneys that are connected to wood-burning stoves, open wood-burning fireplaces, and fireplaces with gas logs installed. It only takes a spark or heat to ignite creosote.

Fire damage is often found during a routine inspection by a professional chimney sweep. Signs that a chimney fire has occurred are cracked or shattered flue tiles; blown out sections of flue tiles; blown out mortar joints in the flue and smoke chamber; smoke damage to the fireplace face or other areas of the house; expanded and cracked masonry at the facial wall above the fireplace opening, back of the chimney, or top of the chimney; a cement cap that is lifted or broken bond with the top course of bricks; cracks in a cement cap; damaged chimney cover; or damaged stainless steel chimney with warping or buckled seams.

Damages to a masonry chimney or steel chimney can be extensive and very costly to replace,  and if the fire escapes the chimney, a house fire can endanger life and property. Avoiding a fire in the first place is the smartest thing to do.

What are the signs that a chimney fire is occurring? During a chimney fire, the following may occur:

·       Loud roaring or whooshing sound coming from the chimney

·       Freight-train like sound

·       Loud cracks or pops (this is the flue tiles breaking)

·       Sudden smoke backup into the house

·       Flames shoot out the top or sides of the chimney chase

·       If not contained inside the chase, a house fire may occur

What to do in case of a chimney fire:

·       Throw a chimney fire extinguisher in to the firebox

·       Shut off the air supply by closing glass doors or closing the combustion air intake

·       Get the family out of the house

·       Call the fire department

·       Keep watch for at least 48 hours in case fire ignites again in nearby combustible framing

·       Call a professional CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep to inspect the chimney and provide an evaluation report before further use. Be sure to follow the sweep’s advice regarding any repairs needed. Find a professional chimney sweep at the Midwest Chimney Safety Council site at www.mcsc-net.org or the Chimney Safety Institute of America site at www.csia.org. 

How to avoid a chimney fire:

Wood should be split and stacked at least 6 months before use

·       Have the chimney inspected and swept on a regular basis by a professional CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep- once per year for open fireplaces or twice for wood-burning stoves or inserts.

·       Burn only dry cordwood - get a moisture meter and make sure that there is only 15% moisture content in the wood.

·       Never burn pine (except hard yellow pine), hedge, railroad ties, wrapping paper, or treated wood.

·       Do not depend on a chimney sweeping log to remove creosote and do an annual inspection.

·       Use Anti-Creosote-Remover spray on logs each time you burn to reduce creosote buildup.

·       Realize that all wood creates creosote and maintenance is necessary to remove flammable creosote.

·       Burn hot fires rather than small or smoldering fires. Smoldering fires create a lot of creosote buildup and are the primary reason that chimney fires occur.

·       Read the owner’s manual.  

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      Marge Padgitt is the CEO of HearthMasters, Inc. dba Padgitt Chimney & Fireplace in Independence, Missouri. Visit www.chimkc.com or www.hearthmasters.us for more information. Contact Marge at margepadgitt@comcast.net.