Why do chimneys work

When chimneys are not in use, they can allow cold backdraft back into the home since the house is full of warm air. The warm air can then leave the house through the chimney through the same process of rising that hot smoke does when wood is being burned.

To prevent this, insulation of the chimney is important along with closing the flue when not in use. Although chimneys all perform the same function, they can differ slightly in their construction. The basic types of chimney are: [2]. Improving the efficiency of the fireplace and chimney can reduce heat loss from the chimney, making it operate better during the cold months. Some simple ways to improve the efficiency of your fireplace and chimney include: [3]. Chimneys must also be inspected inside and out regularly to ensure that they are operating as well as they can.

It is important to have your chimney flue lined. Are you wondering how to clean a chimney fl ue? Since soot is a fire hazard, it is important to have it inspected yearly and swept by professionals when deemed necessary. Chimney dampers are located just above the firebox and they help control ventilation.

They also keep the chimney sealed when it is not in use, which keeps cold air from entering. The chimney damper should be open when the fireplace is in use and can be closed when it is not.

Flue liners not only protect from heat transfer from your fireplace, they co ntain the flue gasses given off by your heating equipment and carry them up and out..

When there are cracks in your liner, it is essential to have your chimney liner replaced right away before using your chimney again. Before smoke enters the chimney flue, it goes through the smoke chamber.

This area has slanted walls to make it easier for smoke to get to the flue. The smoke chamber also has a smoke shelf which serves to gather moisture and debris that can enter from outside. Chimney flashing is found at the point where the chimney meets the roof. It can be made of aluminum, copper, steel, or lead. One thing is certain, however. For those homeowners with a fireplace, safe and hassle-free evenings spent around the hearth depend not only on a proper understanding of how a chimney works, but also on a commitment to maintaining the chimney.

Whether traditional or prefabricated, all chimneys are fitted with a damper—that is, a moveable metal plate. When open, the damper allows smoke from the fireplace along with heat and harmful gases, such as carbon monoxide to exit the house.

During the summer or on cold winter nights when you are not using the fireplace, the damper closes in order to help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.

A standard throat damper installs above the firebox and is operated by a handle, while a top-sealing damper mounts at the top of the flue. They also prevent water from entering and can contain hot sparks that might have otherwise landed on your roof. Annual chimney inspections are another great way to prevent damage and maintain the safety of your chimney. The CSIA categorizes chimney inspections into 3 different levels.

Choose the level that best suits your needs based on the CSIA descriptions. Roofs are affected by the objects on or near it, like your chimney. We bring trust and peace of mind to every Long Roofing Roof. Contact Long Roofing at LONG or visit us online to request an estimate , schedule a free, in-home consultation or find answers to any home roofing questions.

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