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What Is Creosote?

As homeowners enjoy fires in their fireplace, a natural byproduct accumulates on the inner walls of your fireplace. This byproduct is called creosote. While it is natural, it takes on a smell and can be potentially dangerous to homeowners. It’s also important to note that this byproduct takes on a tar-like consistency and is quite hard to remove once it reaches a certain level of buildup. Luckily, it is easily managed if homeowners stay on top of their annual maintenance plan. Let’s take a closer look at creosote. 

Chimney cleaning and repair Services in Hurley, NY

What Risks Does Creosote Pose?

As mentioned, creosote comes with an overwhelming, unpleasant smell. This smell can be strong and potentially dangerous to inhale that is toxic to breathe in, especially the more it collects. On top of this, a heavy presence of creosote drastically increases the risk of a house fire. This is because creosote is highly flammable – in fact, it’s one of the leading causes of house fires. Lastly, the longer that it collects inside of your fireplace, the harder it is to remove, which may even require replacement of your chimney liner rather than cleaning.

How Can I Tackle Creosote?

Creosote is expected to accumulate, but that doesn’t mean that it should be ignored. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) strongly encourages homeowners to conduct annual inspections and cleanings to tackle creosote and get ahead of any potentially destructive or damaging repair needs. In fact, there are actual specific stages of buildup that chimney professionals look for. They are as follows:

  • First stage: Creosote buildup is mainly a soot-like substance and can be brushed away easily by a chimney professional.
  • Second stage: Creosote buildup is now a thicker and harder substance. Chemical substances are required to help loosen up the debris and clean the buildup.
  • Third stage: Creosote will take on a sticky and oily texture like tar and stick to the chimney walls strongly. This makes it very difficult to take care of the buildup. This is the stage where it can become harmful to breathe in the air due to the toxicity or a need to completely replace chimney liners.

Regardless of the stage that your creosote buildup may be, chimney professionals can come up with a plan of attack for your home. 

If it’s been over a year since your last chimney cleaning, it is likely the time to call your local chimney professionals to schedule a cleaning. Not only can annual cleanings keep up on regular maintenance of creosote, but it will also help you catch issues early. Catching repair needs early will minimize cost.

Creosote Chimney Cleanings in Pawling & Red Hook, NY

Tackle Heavy Creosote Buildup in Hudson Valley, NY

If you know that your chimney is due or overdue for your annual cleaning, it may be time to contact us at Hudson Valley Chimney. Our expert, well experienced team can assist with annual maintenance, as well as providing a quote for any repair need that may come up over the years. We can also answer any general chimney and fireplace questions you may have. Call Hudson Valley Chimney today to schedule an appointment with a certified chimney sweep.