Chimneys and fireplaces can provide a lot of warmth in homes. In fact, according to the Chimney Safety Institute of America, fires in fireplaces can reach temperatures exceeding 450 degrees Fahrenheit. For many centuries, fireplaces were among the most common indoor heating solutions, but these days many people rely on central heating. Plenty of folks still like to stoke controlled fires inside, though! Unfortunately, these fires sometimes grow out of control. Thankfully, you can get in touch with a chimney contractor who can inspect your chimney and identify risks. It's smart to have your chimney cleaned on a regular basis. This will remove potentially dangerous substances that could ignite and cause a fire. It's also wise to keep an eye out for other risk factors, such as a chimney that's beginning to fall apart.

Be Especially Wary of Creosote Buildup

The biggest risk is creosote, a sticky, highly flammable tar that forms when the wood is burned. Burning coal and fossil fuels can also create this substance. Creosote will accumulate in the chimney, and if the chimney isn't cleaned regularly, it can ignite. Fortunately, a chimney contractor can remove creosote.

Burning Unseasoned Wood Can Lead to More Creosote

Burning unseasoned wood, meaning wood with a lot of moisture, can result in more creosote. Leaving wood to dry will season it and reduce creosote levels. It's best to plan well ahead when acquiring wood so that you can ensure that it has enough time to dry. Also, keep storage in mind. When possible, it's best to keep wood off the ground. Simply placing it on a tarp can help. You can also place it under a roof to protect it from rain.

Poor Air Flow Can Increase Risks

Ash, bits of wood, and things that fall into the chimney from the outside, including small animals, can clog the chimney itself. This could greatly increase the risks of a chimney fire. If airflow is restricted or there are bottlenecks, it could also encourage the build-up of creosote. Speaking of bottlenecks, if the chimney is poorly designed or breaking down, this too could result in chokepoints that could increase the risk of a fire breaking out. Fortunately, when you hire a chimney maintenance contractor, they can look for issues with airflow.

Many other issues can lead to uncontrolled fires, including misusing appliances, burning non-wood materials, and failing to properly maintain your chimney. If you haven't had your chimney inspected and cleaned recently, it's time to contact a chimney contractor at Allphase Masonry & Chimney Services.