It’s that time of year where the nights are getting colder
and having a fire in your fireplace seems like a great idea. There’s a few
things you need to do before you use that fireplace to make sure it’s safe.
First, if possible you should get up on your roof and make
sure the exterior components are in good shape. Inspect the flashings for gaps
and a tight seal to the roof. If you find any gaps you should caulk and seal
them to prevent any moisture from intruding.
Next, inspect the chimney itself for any damaged or missing mortar or
for anything growing in the mortar. Moss growing in the mortar can cause it to
crack and that may lead to further damage. Next check that concrete cap or
metal cap at the top for cracks or rust. Cracks and rust can let moisture down
and cause issues down in the firebox. If you find cracks make sure to seal them
with a concrete repair kit or concrete caulking. If you've got quite a bit of
rust on your chimney cap you might need to replace it.
Next, go back inside and look at the fireplace itself. Check
the hearth for any damaged material and make repairs if needed. Look inside the
firebox for any damage or cracking in the brick or metal. Damage here could
lead to bad drafting of the fire and that could lead to thicker creosote build
up which is a serious fire hazard. Next, make sure your damper is operable,
make sure it opens and closes. If it isn’t working you may be losing a lot of
heating or cooling up your chimney making your heating and cooling bills a lot
higher. Next, grab a flashlight and shine it up into the flue and check for any
cracks or build up. If you spot a build up or cracking then it’s time to call
in a chimney sweep and have you fireplace professionally cleaned.
Now that you've got your fireplace in good working order
there’s a few things you need to know to making a good fire. Make sure you use
only good seasoned wood. Don’t use anything that’s green or freshly cut.
Freshly cut or green woods spark and may cause a fire where you don’t want one
to be. Don’t use newspaper to start your fire either instead use the newspaper
to warm up the top of the firebox or throat so the smoke is drawn up into the
flue and not out into the room. You can also use a fire starter log to do the
same thing. Once the throat is warm you can build your fire on top of the fire
starter log. Make sure to use your
fireplace screen and keep it closed when you have a fire going to prevent any
sparks or embers from entering the room. Never use any liquids or trash to
start a fire. Remember to clean out the
fireplace of ashes prior to starting your next fire. Those ashes may be hot for
several days so dispose of them into a metal container and let them sit for a
few days before putting them into the trash or your compost pile.
This might seem like a lot of work but in 2009 alone over
25% of home heating fires were caused by failing to properly clean creosote
from chimneys. So spend a little time and money to keep your fireplace clean
and in good working order this winter season.
