Make Central Masonry & Chimney Your Chimney Sweep & Fireplace Repair Experts in Syracuse

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What Is Creosote? Why Is It Dangerous?

Creosote is a darkish, tar-textured substance that forms inside chimneys as wood is burned in the firebox. Basically, as smoke and gases from incomplete combustion condense and cool near the top of the chimney, certain components of the smoke form into tiny droplets and solid particles – forming what we call creosote. Over time, creosote builds up and hardens in the flue.

There are three stages of creosote buildup:

• Stage 1 (Sooty, Powdery Creosote): This is the initial stage of buildup. It’s relatively easy to remove with a chimney brush and regular cleaning.
• Stage 2 (Sticky, Tar-Like Creosote): In this stage, the creosote thickens and becomes stickier. It’s harder to clean and may require special tools or chemical treatments for removal.
• Stage 3 (Hardened, Glazed Creosote): The most dangerous stage, this form of creosote becomes shiny, hardened, and difficult to remove. It’s highly flammable and poses a significant risk of chimney fires. This type of buildup often requires professional cleaning using specialized equipment.

What makes creosote so dangerous?

Creosote is dangerous primarily because it is highly flammable and remains one of the leading causes of chimney fires. If enough builds up inside the chimney, even a small spark or too high of temperatures can ignite it. And since chimney fires can spread quickly, damaging your home’s structure or even causing house fires, this isn’t something to take lightly.

Now, chimney fires aside, creosote can create some other problems too – things like restricted airflow, which can cause gases to flow back into your home, or damage to your chimney.

And remember that, as creosote accumulates and hardens (particularly in its third, glazed stage), it becomes much more difficult to remove. Specialized equipment and professional services are often required to clear the buildup, which can be costly if left unaddressed.

All in all, staying aware of creosote and the need for regular sweepings is a must if you own a fireplace. If you have yet to get this yearly maintenance on the books, give us a call – we’d love to help you out.

Can I Prevent Creosote From Forming?

No, you can’t prevent creosote from forming…but you can slow it down. Certain things make creosote build up faster – things like burning wet wood, letting your fires smolder, and allowing poor draft and airflow. With that in mind, practice the follow techniques to keep your creosote levels lower:

• Burn only well-seasoned wood (preferable hardwoods). The only thing you should be tossing into your fires is well-seasoned wood, which contains less moisture and therefore produces less smoke and creosote.
• Don’t throw trash, cardboard, wrapping paper, etc. into your fires. On that same note, don’t toss trash, paper plates, boxes, treated wood, or anything that isn’t seasoned firewood into your fires, as all of these produce toxins that encourage creosote buildup.
• Maintain proper draft and airflow. Ensure adequate airflow by keeping the damper fully open when the fireplace is in use and by addressing any issues with poor draft right away. These practices encourage your fires to burn hotter and promote more complete combustion, thus reducing smoke and creosote production.
• Burn hotter fires. Slow, smoldering fires tend to produce more creosote over time. Start and maintain hot fires to promote complete combustion – a hot fire burns more efficiently and produces less smoke and creosote than a smoldering fire.
• Book regular chimney sweepings. This is a big one! Schedule regular chimney cleanings and inspections, ideally at least once a year, to remove any creosote buildup before it becomes a significant problem.
• Avoid overloading the firebox. Do not pack too much wood into the fireplace, as this can restrict airflow and cause incomplete combustion.
• Burn creosote sweeping logs. These products are approved by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and can help loosen creosote and prevent buildup. However, these should never replace regular cleaning and inspections by a certified tech.

Our Skilled Chimney Techs Are Ready To Help You Out

At Central Masonry & Chimney, we are committed to ensuring your chimney and fireplace function as safely and as efficiently as possible. If you’re a homeowner in Syracuse, Manlius, or anywhere else nearby, our skilled professionals are here to provide thorough chimney sweeping services, comprehensive inspections, and reliable repair services – all tailored to your needs.

Don’t wait for issues to arise – contact Central Masonry & Chimney today and let us be your trusted partners in maintaining a safer and cozier fireplace. Call or reach out online now.