Why Is It Important To Clean Your Chimney?
One Word: SAFETY
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (USCPSC), an average of 17,600 chimney fires occurred annually in the United States between 2015 and 2017. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends chimneys be inspected annually and cleaned as-needed.
Why are Chimney Fires Dangerous?
- Damage to the Chimney: Chimney fires can burn at high temperatures (around 2000°F) and can melt mortar, crack tiles, cause liners to collapse and damage the outer masonry material which can provide a pathway for flames to reach the combustible wood frame of the house.
- Dangerous Gases: One of the most dangerous consequence of a chimney fire is that it creates pathways for deadly carbon monoxide to enter your home.
- Sparks Exiting the Chimney: Chimney fires can cause clouds of black smoke and sparks to pour out of the top of the chimney possibly catching your roof on fire.
- Expensive Repairs: Chimney fires that damage the chimney, liner, or masonry are expensive to repair or replace.