What Is Creosote and Why Are Chimney Inspections Important?

Chimneys vent harmful gases, smoke, and enhance indoor air quality. They also provide crucial safety, functionality, and add to the aesthetic appeal of a home. However, chimneys can accumulate a substance called creosote. Below, we explain creosote in detail.

What is Creosote?

Creosote is a substance that resembles tar. It forms inside chimneys after burning wood in your fireplace. The smoke condenses inside the chimney, combining various byproducts like unburned wood particles, water vapor, and tar.

Stages of Creosote

• Stage 1: Flaky, sooty deposits that are easy to remove.

• Stage 2: Tar-like, crunchy deposits that are more challenging to clean.

• Stage 3: Shiny, glazed, hardened creosote, which is difficult to clean and highly flammable.

Why Is Creosote Dangerous?

Creosote is highly flammable, and its buildup can restrict airflow. When creosote accumulates, it becomes a fire hazard. Additionally, the restricted airflow causes dangerous gases, such as carbon monoxide, to invade your home. The best way to avoid these issues is to have a chimney inspection. If there is creosote buildup, you should have it professionally cleaned.

The Importance of Chimney Inspections

Creosote buildup is one reason for regular chimney inspections, but it’s not the only issue an inspection can reveal. Other problems include blockages, improper ventilation, and structural damage. All of these can lead to dangerous situations, like fires or carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Identifying Structural Issues: Structural issues can result in an underperforming fireplace.

• Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: When creosote builds up, it can restrict airflow, allowing carbon monoxide to enter your home. Be sure you also have a carbon monoxide alarm.

• Safety Standards: The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends homeowners have a chimney inspection once a year. Spring is an excellent time for this, as it allows you to assess how much creosote has built up over the winter months.

How Do I Choose the Best Chimney Inspectors?

Here are the key factors to consider when hiring a chimney inspection service:

Certification and Licensing: Certification by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) is essential. Another reputable organization is the National Fireplace Institute (NFI). Companies with these certifications follow industry best practices.

Experience and Reputation: Research reviews from former clients on Google, Yelp, or through word of mouth. A well-established company typically offers a higher level of expertise.

Understanding the Inspection Process: The inspector will conduct one of three levels of chimney inspection:

• Level 1: A basic inspection, typically for routine maintenance.

• Level 2: Includes camera inspections, often done when buying or selling a home or after a chimney fire.

• Level 3: An extensive inspection that may require dismantling parts of the chimney, typically for severe issues.

Insurance Coverage: Ensure the company has liability insurance and workers’ compensation in case of accidents or damage during the inspection.

Services: Hire a company that also offers cleaning, repairs, and maintenance, so these issues can be addressed immediately if discovered.

Cost: Cost should not be the deciding factor. While saving money is important, cutting corners on experience or expertise can end up costing more if the job is not done correctly.

Safety Standards: Verify that the company follows the safety standards set by the NFPA.

Do You Need a Chimney Inspection for Creosote in Portland, Astoria, OR, or the Vancouver, WA Areas?

If you suspect creosote buildup in the chimney of your home or building and you live in the Portland, Astoria, Beaverton, OR, or Vancouver, WA areas, contact us at Lifetime Chimney. Our technicians have over 20 years of experience providing chimney inspections for commercial and residential properties. We are a family-owned and operated business, certified by the CSIA. Click here to schedule an inspection today.