As you may know, Superior Chimney writes a lot of articles to educate the Chicagoland area on chimneys and how to identify problems. Every once in a while, it is good to go back and review the basics. That’s what we’re going to do. We’re going to discuss what are the components of a chimney. Let’s get started.
What are the Components of a Fireplace?
We’re going to get started on the actual chimney itself. Most chimneys are built of brick and some are constructed of a wood framed chase with siding on it to match the rest of the home. The traditional masonry fireplace chimneys include (from the inside out) a firebox, where the firewood burns and gas starter are located. Going up is the throat, smoke chamber and then chimney flue. These are the components of a masonry chimney where the exhaust/air travels through – From the firebox and out through the top of the chimney. You can most often ‘see’ your chimney from the ground, you will notice the bricks and on top of that will be the chimney crown (cement slab) which keeps the elements away from the brick chimney. On top of the chimney crown is the chimney cap. This is what keeps animals & debris from entering the chimney flue… raccoons, squirrels, birds, bats, etc… down the flue, and into the firebox.
Now that we know what components that a chimney has, let’s focus on a couple of key areas.
Fireplace Dampers
All chimneys are fitted with a fireplace damper. A fireplace damper is a metal plate that opens and closes, allowing smoke from the fireplace to move up and out of the home. If you have a fire and the fireplace damper is closed, or restrictive, the smoke will back up into your home. The smoke needs a place to go. When the fireplace is not in use, the damper should remain closed in order to keep the cold air out of your home and warm air from escaping your home. Just because you have a fireplace does not mean that you have to deal with cold drafts in the room the fireplace is in.
Chimney Flues
As we all know, heat rises. The heat from the fireplace is going to rise taking with it the smoke, and other gases. This process is known as drafting. It is important to have good drafting as it prevents the smoke or gases from staying in your home and harming your family.
Chimney Flue Liners
Chimney flue liners are important to the chimney; they are your firewall. It works to prevent overheating of any combustibles next to the chimney. And, it helps so the chimney construction doesn’t corrode from the byproducts of burning wood, or creosote. There are a few types of flue liners, such as fire clay tiles, heat resistant concrete, and stainless steel. Superior Chimney recommends the use of stainless steel in our geographic freeze and thaw climate. Our technicians can give you the details when we are at your home.
What is the Purpose of Taking Care of the Chimney? Chimney Fires. This is where regular sweep & inspection is crucial to the health of your home. Without a chimney sweep or chimney cleaning each year, (whether you use the chimney or not, gas or wood burning) the chimney can cause a fire to transfer to your home. Only Nationally credentialed service technician professionals know and can inspect the key components of a fireplace for known condition and continued use. Be sure to contact us today!
