The Hidden Danger of Creosote Build-Up During the Burn Season

Crackling fires in your fireplace are a terrific source of joy and comfort when wintry weather is outside. But don’t forget the hidden danger of creosote buildup during the burn season! We contribute to fire safety by ensuring our technicians at Chimney Solutions are CSIA-certified. We’re passionate about this because thousands of home fires occur every year, many caused by creosote buildup. Learn more about creosote and its dangers below.

What is Creosote? 

Creosote is a dark, tar-like, highly flammable substance that forms inside chimneys when wood smoke cools and condenses. It develops because of incomplete wood combustion, and buildup increases when fires are low or smoldering. Over time, this residue that sticks to the flue walls builds up in layers.

Creosote Causes Chimney Fires

As creosote accumulates, it becomes increasingly dangerous. Even a small spark or high heat can trigger a chimney fire. Many homeowners don’t realize that chimney fires can cause significant damage to their homes. They may crack flue liners, weaken masonry, and allow fire to spread to combustible parts of the house. If you become aware of a chimney fire, immediately evacuate and call 9-1-1 to contact the fire department. In addition, because most cause structural damage, always schedule a chimney inspection after a chimney fire.

How Can I Tell There is a Chimney Fire?

When chimney fires are raging, smoke pours into the home, and flames are usually visible coming from the chimney. But small chimney fires, though often destructive, are harder to detect. The following are clues that there may be a chimney fire:

• Loud rumbling, popping, or crackling noises like a bonfire are coming from inside the chimney flue.
• You hear a roaring sound like an airplane or a train.
• Dense smoke pours into your home or through the top of the chimney.
• There is a strong, intensely hot smell.
• Fire may be visible at the top of your chimney flue.

There are signs that you may detect after a chimney fire has occurred, including:

• The roof is damaged, and portions may have melted.
• Metal parts of the chimney are warped, such as the damper.
• If the creosote appears puffy or has a “honeycomb” appearance.

Chimney Obstruction is Another Creosote Hazard

Creosote can block your chimney. This happens from a lack of chimney cleaning. We often see creosote buildup so severe that there is little room for the chimney draft. An obstructed chimney results in inefficient heating and an increased risk of the following significant hazards:

• Carbon Monoxide Exposure: A clogged or obstructed flue can prevent toxic gases from escaping, allowing invisible, odorless carbon monoxide to build up indoors. This can lead to headaches, confusion, nausea, weakness, serious injury, and, in severe cases, fatal poisoning.
• Risk of Chimney Fires: When creosote accumulates inside a chimney, it can ignite under high heat, or a single ember can start a dangerous chimney fire that burns as long as creosote buildup fuels it.
• Smoke and Fume Reversal: Blockages can force smoke and combustion byproducts back into the living area instead of venting outdoors. This backflow can degrade indoor air quality, irritate the lungs, leave behind smoke stains and odors, and result in carbon monoxide exposure.

Contact Chimney Solutions Pros to Schedule Creosote Removal

Let Chimney Solutions address the hidden danger of creosote buildup during the burn season. We urge you not to rely on DIY remedies, partly because only one of the three forms of creosote can be removed with a professional chimney brush. Industry-grade equipment or a chimney liner replacement is required if you have Level 2 or Level 3 creosote in your chimney. Another reason to ditch DIY methods is that professional cleaning is the only way to ensure chimney safety.

Call us to get your dirty chimney in good shape and for chimney inspections, masonry rebuilds, new fireplace installations, chimney flashing repairs, and all other chimney and fireplace maintenance and services. Call today or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.