All the Info You Need About Creosote

Creosote isn’t a term thrown around much when discussing a fireplace. In general when fireplace care and maintenance come up the discussion turns to the mess from ashes and soot left behind from a burning wood. With regular use the liner of your chimney can become coated in soot and a substance known as creosote. If you’ve never heard of creosote it is a substance that if left on the liner of your chimney can pose some serious safety risks because it is a combustible matter. Learn the facts about creosote and how it could affect your chimney’s efficiency.

So what exactly is creosote? Creosote is the leftover tar and soot from burning wood in your fireplace. This carbon substance creates a heavy buildup that is heavy and hard to remove. Once the layer of carbon material has built up inside of your masonry it can block the chimney and flue as well become highly combustible. If left to build up for too long the risk of a fire igniting increases dramatically. Besides the risk of fire a buildup of creosote makes it harder for your chimney to heat up making your fire less energy efficient. To compound matters, the colder your chimney is the more creosote will build up.

To keep this carbon coating from building up inside your chimney, it is best to have a chimney inspection and cleaning at least once a year. Wood burning stoves and fireplaces are most likely to have a creosote layer but it is always a good idea to have your gas fireplace checked as well. Chimney Master Dallas is ready to answer your call to have your chimney inspected and cleaned. Our professional services get the job done quickly and with top notch service. To schedule your inspection call Chimney Master Dallas.