Having a chimney in New England is common as many homes use them for their central point of heat. During the winter months, chimneys and fireplaces are used more than their warmer counterparts, as you would expect. But, how much do you know about your chimney and taking care of it? Your chimney maintenance team at Seacoast Chimney is here to answer some of the most frequently asked questions.
What is the purpose of a chimney?
The duty of a chimney is to protect. If you have a fireplace in your home, you have a chimney. The primary purpose of a chimney is to protect your home from combustion. It provides airflow and a place for products to vent out and not build up in your home.
Is a chimney necessary?
If you have a chimney but don’t have a fireplace, you are hosting a hazardous situation for you and your family. Without a chimney in your home, there is no way for the smoke particles, fire embers, and soot to escape your home. Instead, they will clutter and build in your home. Eventually, the fumes they are making will become so dangerous that you will not be able to breathe in your home, causing you to leave it.
Can chimneys explode?
The answer to this question depends on the type of material you have burning inside your chimney. You want to make sure that you are using wood inside your fireplace. If you use glazed creosote, you may have a danger of your chimney exploding. Creosote can burn as high as 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, which can quickly spread around your home. Thus, it is best to avoid using it in your chimney.
Does a chimney cap reduce drafts?
A well-chosen chimney will not affect your chimney’s draft. Much of the time, you can see your chimney cap helping the state of your chimney. However, a poorly maintained flue may experience draft problems.
What is thermal shock in chimneys?
In certain conditions, flames can move up through damper systems from the firebox. When this happens, it causes an extreme change in temperature in the flue system of your chimney. This is what is known as thermal shock. Thermal shock can damage the flue tiles, causing them to crack or crumble under the pressure of the heat of the flames.
Who can I go to for reliable chimney maintenance?
Seacoast Chimney is your team of chimney maintenance experts. For years we have provided quality service to our customers and their chimneys. We are qualified to take care of any of your chimney care needs, making us your one-stop shop for chimney maintenance and installations.
