Chimneys are important parts of modern houses. Home owners value the time spend around the fireplace especially during cold seasons. Just like any other frequently used space, these areas need regular maintenance. Through frequent sweeps and chimney repair Northern Virginia residents will keep this area in good condition. One should avoid thinking all is well just because the fire can light and warm the area properly.
Normally, a hot column of gas in the chimneys experience pressure difference and creates a draught which draws air to enable continuous burning of the hot coals or wood. During that process a layer of soot or creosote builds up on the inside of the smokestack and this restricts the flow. If the soot is not removed, the biggest danger associated with it is that the vent and the building may catch fire.
Fires are main causes of property loss and human lives. These should be prevented at all cost. Another danger associated with improper maintenance is emission of the toxic gases mentioned above to the living area. This poses a great health risk to residents of the house.
There are two types of fires resulting from improper maintenance of the fireplace. The silent chimney fire describes the scenario where the creosote ignites and starts burning slowly without anyone noticing. This is a silent danger since it will burn to high temperatures without causing any alarm. This will not only destroy the vent but also surrounding structures before anyone could see a sign.
The loud chimney fire on the other hand tends to be noisy because it has enough upward force that causes the noise. It can be noticed earlier than the silent fires. However, it usually caused by heavier creosote build up. The noise made is compared to the whistling and howling of a freight train.
Another reason to do repairs on your fireplace is to prevent any masonry materials from falling. Such can destroy property or cause accidents to people especially when working around there. Of importance is to conduct regular inspections and correct any faults before they grow to serious defects.
There are other causes of the chimney malfunction owners should be aware of. Some weather effects like snow, rain, wind and ice that hit the place from five different sides. Home owners need to note that such elements expose the vent to constant expansion and contraction in the five directions. This is because the masonry materials are heated from the inside, by coal or wood and cooled from outside by ice or cold weather. This leads to a weak structure which may crack, or fall any time depending on the extent of damage.
The location of some houses may lead to fireplace damage due to natural causes like earthquakes. Chimneys do not move with the quake because of their rigidity hence they may have to be repaired more often in such areas. Even without the help of professionals, one can ensure their safety by making regular checks to see if everything is in place.
The main aim of regular sweeps and inspection of chimneys is to prevent the above mentioned dangers. If home owners notice any defects, they can look for qualified chimney repair Northern Virginia professionals to correct. Avoid doing it yourself as you may not have the skills and tools required for effective results in the job.
Normally, a hot column of gas in the chimneys experience pressure difference and creates a draught which draws air to enable continuous burning of the hot coals or wood. During that process a layer of soot or creosote builds up on the inside of the smokestack and this restricts the flow. If the soot is not removed, the biggest danger associated with it is that the vent and the building may catch fire.
Fires are main causes of property loss and human lives. These should be prevented at all cost. Another danger associated with improper maintenance is emission of the toxic gases mentioned above to the living area. This poses a great health risk to residents of the house.
There are two types of fires resulting from improper maintenance of the fireplace. The silent chimney fire describes the scenario where the creosote ignites and starts burning slowly without anyone noticing. This is a silent danger since it will burn to high temperatures without causing any alarm. This will not only destroy the vent but also surrounding structures before anyone could see a sign.
The loud chimney fire on the other hand tends to be noisy because it has enough upward force that causes the noise. It can be noticed earlier than the silent fires. However, it usually caused by heavier creosote build up. The noise made is compared to the whistling and howling of a freight train.
Another reason to do repairs on your fireplace is to prevent any masonry materials from falling. Such can destroy property or cause accidents to people especially when working around there. Of importance is to conduct regular inspections and correct any faults before they grow to serious defects.
There are other causes of the chimney malfunction owners should be aware of. Some weather effects like snow, rain, wind and ice that hit the place from five different sides. Home owners need to note that such elements expose the vent to constant expansion and contraction in the five directions. This is because the masonry materials are heated from the inside, by coal or wood and cooled from outside by ice or cold weather. This leads to a weak structure which may crack, or fall any time depending on the extent of damage.
The location of some houses may lead to fireplace damage due to natural causes like earthquakes. Chimneys do not move with the quake because of their rigidity hence they may have to be repaired more often in such areas. Even without the help of professionals, one can ensure their safety by making regular checks to see if everything is in place.
The main aim of regular sweeps and inspection of chimneys is to prevent the above mentioned dangers. If home owners notice any defects, they can look for qualified chimney repair Northern Virginia professionals to correct. Avoid doing it yourself as you may not have the skills and tools required for effective results in the job.
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