So, you own a fireplace but do not know a lot about how it works or what each of the various parts does in the system. You’re not alone. The complexities of a fireplace can be hard to grasp, but by learning just a few chimney basics, you will be well on your way to understanding your system a little better. Learn some chimney knowledge below, then count on the team at Cinderbox Chimney Service to help you with any repairs, sweepings, and inspections.

Chimney Dampers & Caps

yellow chimney with rainbow in the backThere is no doubt that a chimney liner that is exposed to water and excess moisture is very detrimental to it. Water is known to cause decay, rust, and deterioration all throughout your chimney and fireplace, so stopping it from entering is a must. That’s why chimney caps are so important. Your chimney cap sits at the top of your flue covering the opening, so that water, animals, and debris cannot enter.

Like the chimney cap, your damper helps to seal your chimney from the outside world, so that drafts, animals, water, and debris cannot enter when your fireplace is not in use. It also helps homeowners keep their homes nice and toasty in the winter, ensuring air does not escape out of the flue. When you want to light a fire, the damper can be easily opened to let smoke and fumes to safely escape, so that you aren’t left with a smokey living space.

Chimney Liners

A chimney liner does a few major things for your chimney. It ensures no acidic fumes and gases eat away at your brickwork and mortar, It also helps direct fumes up and out of your flue, and it keeps the high temperatures of your fire away from any adjacent and flammable woodwork.

Chimney Crowns

A crown sits at the top of the chimney, extending from the flue opening and slightly past the edge of the structure. It is designed to slope downwards, so that water is sent out and away from the sides of your chimney. It plays a big role in protecting your brickwork, and it needs to be made from sturdy materials to do its job effectively and not break down. Count on our team to check yours over today.

Smoke Shelves, Chase Covers & More

When it comes to familiarizing yourself with the ins and outs of your chimney, we could easily spend all day explaining the details of each part and what it does. That’s why we, sweeps, undergo so much training and education! One thing is for certain: when you trust in us, you can rest easy knowing your chimney and fireplace are in the best hands possible.

Our CSIA certified sweeps are here to help you out every step of the way, and we can answer any and all of your questions throughout the process. Experiencing chimney concerns? Book an appointment with us today!