The chimney gives the roof a wonderful look. It creates a fantastic architectural appeal in addition to its main duty of getting fumes out of your home. However, chimneys can easily start a fire, which can end up damaging a lot of your property. You need to know exactly what happens so as to get the best way of preventing the fire. This article will guide you on the major facts about chimney fires and how to prevent them.
What causes the fire?
Well, before you get to fire prevention, you need to know exactly what causes the fire. Particles of wood that were not burnt to completion create a compound known as creosote. These particles adhere to the walls when the temperatures are low and slowly accumulate. Creosote can then easily flame up at the right temperature- oxygen balance. Chimney fires can be really severe and reach over 1000oC.
Prevention tactics
Only use dried wood
Dried pieces of wood burn smoothly and completely. Wood takes a very long period of time before it can be used for chimney fires. Getting wood that isn't quite ready would lead to incomplete combustion and accelerate the formation of creosote. You can tell if the wood is ready when it produces a hollow sound when you hit two pieces together.
Use prefabricated chimneys
These are simply factory built chimneys and they are normally metallic. Having such chimneys greatly reduces the risk of chimney fires because they are usually tested and regulated. Though these chimneys can withstand very high temperatures, their lining can be distorted.
Check for creosote
You also need to ensure that you constantly check your chimney for the presence of any creosote matter. Call a professional who would get rid of any creosote that may be present on the chimney walls.
Use proper fuels
Also use the best fuels when starting your fire. You can use clean and dry newspapers, and consider using larger logs as opposed to smaller ones. Larger logs burn much more efficiently and are less likely to form creosote. Also avoid starting fires using kerosene or gasoline. The vapours can lead to a more severe fire when it does happen.
You need to take care of your chimney. Normally, the first fire would occur inside the chimney, and it can destroy the liner and crack the mortar. If nothing is done, another fire does more damage because it would have easier pathways to the roof and the rest of the house.
Share15 September 2015
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