Did you know that chimneys were created in Europe during the 12th century? Although having a fireplace in your home can increase its value by up to $12,000, chimneys can cause house fires when they are not maintained properly. Fortunately, by performing two simple maintenance tasks, you will be able to prevent chimney fires from destroying your home.
Cleaning the Chimney
The National Fire Protection Association recommends getting your chimney inspected once per year, and if the inspection finds that your chimney is unsafe to use, it must be professionally cleaned. Luckily, chimney sweeps are available to help. A professional chimney sweeping safely removes creosote from your chimney, which is crucial considering that creosote buildup is the main cause of chimney fires. Also, it is important to note that you should never attempt to clean a chimney yourself because chimneys contain carbon monoxide, which can be fatal if the correct safety precautions are not taken.
Installing Chimney Flue Liners
In addition to cleaning the chimney on a regular basis, you must also get a flue liner installed. Flue liners are placed on the insides of chimneys to help prevent creosote buildup, and they are typically made of stainless steel because this material is a relatively affordable way to protect chimneys. Chimney liners are also commonly used to enable greener living, improve the energy efficiency of houses, and increase the lifespan of chimneys. As a result, installing a flue liner is one of the best decisions you can make for your chimney.
In order to properly maintain your chimney, you must complete two simple steps. In addition to hiring a professional to sweep your chimney for you, you must install a stainless steel flue liner, as well. Fortunately, once these tasks are accomplished, you will be able to safely use your chimney this winter.