Chimney Maintenance: Preventing Chimney Fires

Chimney fires can reach temperatures exceeding 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, hot enough to crack masonry chimney liners, ignite roof beams, and spread fire through the home structure. The sound of a chimney fire—described by those who have heard it as a rumbling or roaring like a freight train—is unmistakable and terrifying.

Annual chimney sweeping removes creosote, bird nests, debris, and obstructions that restrict airflow and increase fire risk. The National Fire Protection Association recommends inspection and cleaning every year for any appliance that burns solid fuel, including fireplaces, wood stoves, and pellet stoves.

A Level 2 chimney inspection using video scanning technology is recommended when buying a home, after a significant weather event, following a chimney fire, or when a chimney has not been inspected for several years. Level 2 inspections examine the entire flue interior for damage, deterioration, and blockages.

Install a chimney cap with a spark arrester to prevent birds, squirrels, and debris from entering the flue while allowing smoke and gases to escape. A spark arrester also prevents wind-blown sparks from landing on the roof or nearby combustible materials.