What causes a chimney fire?

Chimney fires are typically caused by the buildup of creosote in the chimney, which can ignite and burn at high temperatures. Creosote is a byproduct of burning wood or other organic materials in the fireplace or wood stove, and it can accumulate on the inner walls of the chimney over time.

When the buildup of creosote becomes too thick, it can ignite and cause a chimney fire. Other factors that can contribute to chimney fires include:

• Burning unseasoned wood, which produces more creosote than seasoned wood

• Restrictive airflow in the chimney, which can cause the fire to burn hotter and more intensely

• Debris or nests in the chimney, which can ignite and contribute to the fire

• A damaged or poorly maintained chimney, which can increase the risk of a fire

To prevent chimney fires, it's important to have your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly by a professional chimney sweep. Burning only seasoned wood and ensuring adequate airflow in the chimney can also help reduce the risk of a fire.

What to do after a chimney fire?

If you suspect or experience a chimney fire, the first thing you should do is evacuate your home and call the fire department. Chimney fires can be dangerous and can spread quickly to other parts of your home, so it's important to take them seriously and seek professional help immediately.

Once the fire is out and it's safe to return to your home, you should have your chimney inspected by a professional before using it again. A chimney fire can cause damage to the chimney liner, masonry, or other parts of the chimney, so it's important to have a thorough inspection to ensure that the chimney is safe to use.

If there is any visible damage to the chimney or if the chimney sweep advises against using it, you should not use your fireplace or stove until the necessary repairs have been made. It's also important to address the cause of the fire, which may involve changing your burning habits or addressing any issues with your chimney, such as a buildup of creosote or debris.

Finally, you should review and update your homeowner's insurance policy to ensure that you are adequately covered in the event of a chimney fire or other home damage.

My flue liner broke after a chimney fire.

If your flue liner has broken after a chimney fire, it is important to have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible. A damaged or broken flue liner can pose a serious safety hazard, as it can allow smoke, heat, and other byproducts of combustion to escape into your home, which can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning or a fire.

Here are some steps you can take to address a broken flue liner:

1. Have your chimney inspected by a professional. A professional chimney sweep or masonry contractor can assess the extent of the damage and recommend the appropriate course of action.

2. Consider replacing the flue liner. Depending on the extent of the damage, it may be necessary to replace the flue liner entirely. This is a job that should be done by a professional chimney sweep or masonry contractor.

3. Repair the flue liner. In some cases, it may be possible to repair the flue liner instead of replacing it. Again, this is a job that should be done by a professional.

4. Have the chimney cleaned. After a chimney fire, it is important to have the chimney cleaned to remove any remaining debris or creosote buildup that may have contributed to the fire.

5. Address the cause of the chimney fire. To prevent future chimney fires and damage to your flue liner, it is important to address the root cause of the fire. This may involve changing your burning habits or addressing any issues with your chimney, such as a buildup of creosote or debris.