On average, there are roughly 25,000 chimney fires every year, causing more than $125 million in damage. Still, many homeowners don’t realize that they need to have chimney inspections performed regularly. It’s very likely that you’ve had a chimney fire and haven’t even noticed. That’s where the team at Chimney Champions comes in. We can inspect the entire structure of your chimney and tell you whether or not you’ve experienced a fire in your chimney.
1. Puffy Creosote Deposits
When creosote burns, it leaves deposits within your chimney that heat and expand, leading to a puffy residue. Because fires in your fireplace can get extremely hot, these puffy creosote deposits are subject to fire. If you have a substantial buildup of creosote in your chimney, then you’ve likely had a chimney fire without realizing it. That’s why you should have your chimney swept and inspected regularly.
2. Damaged Flue Tiles
Many homes have clay flue tiles, since clay is rated as one of the most fire-retardant materials available. Still, some chimney fires can burn as hot as 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, which is too hot for clay. Under this amount of heat, your flue tiles can crack, which then exposes your home to a potential house fire. Fire leaving the chimney can escape through these little cracks that you’ve ignored, resulting in a lost home.
3. Cracks in the Exterior Masonry
Like your clay flue tiles, the exterior bricks are also subject to faults and cracks if you’ve had a chimney fire. A quick glance will be able to confirm that you have cracks, but whether or not they’re due to a fire should be determined by a professional. If you notice a crack in your bricks, you should call in professional chimney sweeps to take a look. Cracks in the exterior also make way for potential house fires and will only further damage your chimney and fireplace.
Prevent Chimney Fires
When it comes to responsible home ownership and taking care of your chimney, you must have it inspected and cleaned regularly. Dirty chimneys not only put your home at risk for a house fire, but they also put the structure of your chimney at risk. Residents throughout Jacksonville, FL, know this, and they rely on the professional chimney sweeps and inspectors from Chimney Champions. When the proper inspections, repairs, and cleanings are done, we can help you prevent future chimney fires. Schedule your appointment online or give us a call at (904) 268-7200.