What is Creosote and What Causes its Buildup?
Creosote is a substance that can form when you use your fireplace to burn wood. As the wood burns, it creates smoke that contains creosote. There’s a high risk of creosote buildup on the inside of your chimney walls if you don’t keep up with annual maintenance. The good news is that creosote takes three stages to develop, and is often easy to clean at the first stage.
Once the creosote layer reaches the third stage, it starts to look like tar. This can be difficult to clean on your own and you’ll need the help of professionals.
Dangers of Creosote
Creosote is harmful to your health and is a major fire hazard. Let’s have a look at the dangers of creosote in detail.
Prevents Smoke From Getting Out
When you have creosote buildup in your chimney, it gets impossible for the smoke from the fire to get out properly. The smoke is then redirected inside your home, which can cause a series of health issues, including irritated skin and eyes, or in worst cases, trigger asthma
Major Cause of Chimney Fires
Creosote is one of the most prominent cause of chimney fires. Since the material is highly flammable, it can fly out from your chimney to the roof and start a fire. Therefore, make sure to prevent chimney fires through proper cleaning.
Highly Toxic for Humans
Excessive exposure to creosote can be dangerous for humans due to its toxic elements. Experts suggest that creosote is a potential carcinogenic when exposed to it for a long time. It also affects the respiratory system and causes skin issues.
Getting Rid of Creosote With the Help of Quality Chimney Services
You can get rid of creosote through regular maintenance. This is where CT Chimney Repair comes in. We focus on creating a safe living experience for you by taking care of your fireplace and chimneys. Our extensive chimney repair services extend to Burlington, Canton, Farmington, and many other locations in Connecticut and Florida.
Book an appointment for a chimney inspection and cleaning today.
