Trusted Chimney Services in Pataskala, OH

What Is Creosote & Why Is It Dangerous?

Creosote is a highly flammable byproduct that forms inside chimneys when wood is burned. As smoke travels up the chimney, it cools and condenses on the interior surfaces, leaving behind sticky or flaky deposits – aka, creosote.

The buildup can be light and powdery, tar-like and sticky, or hardened and glossy – these are typically referred to as Stage 1, Stage 2, and Stage 3 (glazed) creosote.

Now, creosote can build up, block airflow, and cause damages, but the biggest concern with creosote is that it's extremely flammable. If enough creosote accumulates and the chimney gets hot enough, it can ignite and cause a chimney fire to occur. Chimney fires can be explosive, loud, and visibly dramatic, but most often, they are quiet and slow-burning, damaging the chimney liner and masonry without anyone realizing it. Either way, they pose a serious risk to your home and safety.

Certain conditions increase creosote buildup: burning unseasoned or "green" wood, poor airflow, or cool chimney temperatures, to name a few. To reduce the risk of chimney fires, have your chimney professionally swept at least once a year, or more often if you use your fireplace heavily. A certified chimney sweep can remove creosote buildup, inspect the chimney for damage, and help you take steps to minimize future accumulation.

Burning seasoned hardwood, maintaining proper airflow, and keeping fires hot and clean will also help limit creosote formation. Still, even under ideal conditions, some creosote will form, so regular maintenance is essential. Creosote might be out of sight, but it should never be out of mind when it comes to fireplace safety.

Is It Safe To Use My Fireplace if I Haven't Used It in a Few Years?

If you haven't used your fireplace in several years, it's not automatically safe to light a fire. You'll want to have the entire chimney and fireplace system professionally inspected and cleaned before igniting any flames.

What could go wrong for an unused chimney?

One of the biggest possibilities is that animals may have nested in the chimney flue, creating dangerous blockages. In addition, leaves, debris, or broken pieces of masonry may have fallen inside. And chimneys aren't immune to weather damage – moisture could have entered through an uncapped or damaged chimney, leading to rust, mold, or deterioration.

The masonry and flue liner should be inspected for cracks, shifting, or signs of damage. Your damper (the metal plate that opens and closes the flue) should also be checked to make sure it operates properly. Additionally, if your fireplace connects to a gas line or appliance, those components should be tested, as well. Gas lines can develop leaks or corrosion over time, especially if they haven't been in use.

Even the smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in your home should be checked or replaced if it's been several years – just as an extra layer of safety.

In short, your fireplace may look fine on the outside, but without an inspection, you're taking a serious risk by using it after years of inactivity.