What did a big chimney say to the Little chimney?
What did the big chimney say to the little chimney? "You're too young to smoke."
Does My Chimney need a cap?
The top of a chimney after installation does not always have a chimney cap. You will likely need to install a cap for your gas furnace chimney, but not for the reasons you might think. Chimney caps fit on top of the chimney to provide ventilation of the chimney as well as a block against water and animals.
Can you climb up chimney?
Using two tonnes of hand holds, professional route setters have fixed a challenging 13-pitch route (most single climbing pitches are about 30-40m in height) up the chimney. With a film crew in tow, two professional rock climbers, Domen Škofic and Janja Garnbret, decided to give it a try.
What are the different types of chimney?
Types of Kitchen Chimneys
- Wall-Mounted Chimney. As you are looking for the best chimney for your kitchen, you can go for the wall-mounted one. ...
- Built-In Chimney. Then, you can also go for the built-in kitchen chimneys. ...
- Island Chimney. Another type of chimney you can choose for your kitchen is the island chimney. ...
- Corner Chimney. ...
What are the parts of the chimney called?
The 7 Basic Parts of a Chimney1 – Chimney Flue. The chimney flue and the chimney liner are sometimes the same thing and sometimes not, which makes these arguably the most confusing parts of the chimney system. ... 2 – Chimney Liner. ... 3 – Chimney Cap. ... 4 – Chimney Flashing. ... 5 – Chimney Crown. ... 6 – Damper. ... 7 – Smoke Chamber.
What is the crown of a chimney?
Your Chimney Crown The chimney crown is a slab of concrete that tops the masonry chimney. It's sole design is to prevent water from running into the chimney. It reaches from the liner to the outside of the chimney with a slight taper to allow water to run off the chimney.
What part of the chimney is the stack?
When you think of a chimney, you may picture the brick structure on top of a roof, but that is actually known as the “stack”. The chimney stack is the part that is above the roofline.
What is the difference between a chimney cap and a chimney crown?
The crown sounds the most important, but is really second in command. It is made of concrete and seals the top of the chimney. The chimney crown seals and protects the top of the masonry chimney and like the chimney cap it keeps water from entering the chimney.
Should a chimney have a cap?
Although a chimney will function without a chimney cap, it's best to have one. Without a chimney cap, rain, snow, or other detritus can enter your chimney unhampered, causing damage to your house. It also keeps embers from escaping the chimney, preventing roof fires.
Do all chimneys have a crown?
What's a Chimney Crown Anyway? Your chimney crown protects your chimney from water damage entering through small cracks. Some experts believe that less than one percent of all chimneys are properly crowned.
What is a chimney head?
The chimney head is the last part of the chimney located above the roofing. Its main function is to protect the mouth of the chimney from adverse climatic influences, but it can also have a decorative purpose.
How do I fix the top of my chimney?
0:252:29How to Repair a Damaged Chimney Crown - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd a loose silicone is also removed to express any holes in masonry that need to be filled. In. WeMoreAnd a loose silicone is also removed to express any holes in masonry that need to be filled. In. We then mask off the top coarser bricks. This will provide for a clean professional-looking.
What is the clay part on top of a chimney called?
Chimney caps are found on the top of the chimney and protect against rain, snow, debris and even animals from getting into your chimney. They're basically a hat to cover the opening of your chimney and they often have wiring around them to help protect against factors other than water.
What is the metal cover on a chimney called?
A chimney chase cover, also known as a chase pan or chimney cover, is a metal cover used to waterproof the top of a chimney. Not to be confused with a chimney rain cap which only covers the flue opening.
What is a chimney shroud?
Chimney shrouds are much like chimney caps, and work to direct water away from the flue and prevent other intruders from entering. The major difference between a cap and a shroud is appearance. Shrouds are designed of metal and typically match the style and aesthetic of the rain pan.
How long should a chimney crown last?
High-quality chimney crowns are able to last anywhere from 50-75 years. However, a poorly constructed crown could break down in less than 20 years and will cost far more to rebuild than a correctly constructed crown.
How long does chimney crown last?
50-75 yearsChimney Crown Lifespan High-quality chimney crowns are able to last anywhere from 50-75 years. However, a poorly constructed crown could break down in less than 20 years and will cost far more to rebuild than a correctly constructed crown.
How do you put a crown on a chimney?
1:1512:16How to Chimney Crown Installation DIY - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIt's readily available so like that's what my stone is gonna be made out of but what it is is whatMoreIt's readily available so like that's what my stone is gonna be made out of but what it is is what you use for like a wooden doll Scylla if you were to build the whole bottom masonry.
How do you seal a chimney crown?
2:494:04CrownCoat & CrownSeal - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUsing a three to four inch synthetic bristle paintbrush brush a thin coat over the entire crown.MoreUsing a three to four inch synthetic bristle paintbrush brush a thin coat over the entire crown. Working the material in the crown. As if you are applying a thin coat of paint or primer.
How thick should a chimney crown be?
2 + inches thickA good, solid crown should be 2 + inches thick (at its thinnest point). Anything less will be weather-worn and leaky in no time. Rain and snow can cause cracking and crumbling of the chimney crown and open up holes and gaps for water to penetrate.
What makes up a chimney?
The Bricks. Obviously, you know that bricks are what make up a chimney, but they’re more important than you may think. The bricks are the foundation of your chimney’s stack and if they’re not in good condition, your fireplace won’t perform well and your home’s safety will be at risk. If the brick and mortar on your chimney is deteriorated ...
Where are crowns on a chimney?
Not to be confused with chimney caps, chimney crowns are also on top of the chimney. However, they’re only found on masonry chimneys and not prefabricated or factory-built ones.
Why do you need to have your chimney flue inspected every year?
Remember to have your flue inspected every year with a chimney inspection because it can become lined in soot and pose a fire hazard if not taken care of.
Why is my chimney getting moisture?
If the brick and mortar on your chimney is deteriorated or damaged, it can allow moisture into your chimney. As a homeowner, you know that anytime moisture gets into your home it’s a problem.
What is the difference between a fireplace and a chimney?
Many people think of only fireplaces when they hear the word chimney. While the fireplace is where the actual fire takes place and is what everyone’s paying attention to, there’s much more to a chimney than just a fireplace. There are multiple important components to the exterior of a chimney that are absolutely crucial to ...
Why is it important to know the parts of a chimney?
There are many different parts of a chimney and all need to be taken care of in order for your fireplace to be safe and efficient. Knowing what each part is and its purpose will help you spot problems and be able to explain them to a chimney repair service. When you do need to contact ...
Why is the chimney cap important?
It’s crucial to keep your chimney crown in good condition because it’s the main barrier between the outside and your chimney. The crown slightly slopes on the sides to help prevent rain and snow from building up on top of your chimney.
What is a chimney liner?
Chimney Liner. A chimney liner confines fire to the chimney, preventing it from spreading through your home. Clay tiles are the most common liners because they’re a long-lasting, economical choice. Liners aren’t one-size-fits-all, so you might need to add a new liner if you’re installing a new fireplace.
Why is it important to know about chimneys?
Why It’s Important to Know about Fireplace and Chimney Parts. The main reason homeowners and renters need to know about the parts of a chimney stack and fireplace is safety. After all, you’re dealing with fire and smoke, two things that can cause damage to your home and your health. Fortunately, when you know about the various parts ...
What are the parts of a fireplace?
The parts of a fireplace include: 1 Firebox: Where the fire actually burns 2 Hearth: The floor within the fireplace 3 Mantel: Now a decorative frame around the fireplace, it used to serve as a smoke catcher in medieval times 4 Glass doors: Besides giving you a nice view of the fire, glass doors serve as a protective barrier 5 Fireplace insert: A fireproof box that fits into an existing fireplace 6 Ash dump: A door in the middle of the firebox that allows for easy removal of ash 7 Ash pit: A compartment at the base of a fireplace that catches ash 8 Cleanout door: A door in the chimney that’s behind the fireplace or outside the house where debris can be removed
What is the purpose of chimney flashing?
The purpose of chimney flashing is to protect your chimney, roof, and the rooms below from moisture penetration and leaks. If you want to learn more about chimney flashing, you can read our blog post here.
Where is the throat damper located?
Fireplace Damper or Throat Damper. Dampers are also referred to as throat dampers because they’re located in the throat of the chimney above the firebox. The damper seals the fireplace when it’s not in use so that heated air in your home doesn’t escape through the chimney.
What is a fireplace insert?
Glass doors: Besides giving you a nice view of the fire, glass doors serve as a protective barrier. Fireplace insert: A fireproof box that fits into an existing fireplace.
Why do chimney caps prevent fires?
Chimney caps also prevent roof fires because the wire mesh acts as a spark guard.
What are the parts of a chimney?
The Parts of a Chimney, from Top to Bottom. Chimneys do an amazing job in filtering smoke from a fireplace out into the outside air. To accomplish this, there’s a lot going on behind the scenes with chimneys that most people aren’t aware of. Many parts work together to provide efficient and safe operation. When any of these chimney parts is damaged ...
What is a chimney liner?
A chimney liner protects the bricks and mortar of the chimney and makes cleaning a lot easier. Liners made of stainless steel and aluminum can be installed pre-built. Other types, such as cast-in-place liners, are poured into the flue and “built” by hand.
Why do you need a chimney cap?
The chimney cap sits atop the chimney and acts as a guard against rain water and the various types of debris than can get into a chimney. It’s never advisable to have a fireplace without a chimney cap, which also serves to keep burning embers from escaping out into the air and landing on the roof.
Why do chimneys work together?
Many parts work together to provide efficient and safe operation. When any of these chimney parts is damaged or worn out or not working optimally, problems are sure to pop up. Fortunately the average homeowner doesn’t need to know everything there is to know about each part of a chimney.
Why do you need to inspect your chimney?
There are other chimney parts, but these are the primary parts you should be aware of, because they’re the ones where aging and damage are most likely to occur. By arranging for an annual inspection and cleaning by a certified chimney sweep, you’ll ensure that these and all other parts of your chimney are working safely and efficiently.
What is the function of a handle in a chimney?
When closed, it keeps outside air outside and inside air inside and also keeps out of the house small animals that love getting into chimneys.
What is the purpose of flashing a chimney?
Flashing keeps rain water and run-off from melting snow from getting down into the house and causing damage to building materials or the chimney itself.
What is the top of a chimney called?
The top of a masonry chimney is called the crown . It should be gently sloped toward the edge, causing rainwater to run off. The flue liners should extend above the crown at least two inches (maybe more, depending on the local building code), so you might be able to see the tops of the liners from the ground.
What is a chimney?
A chimney, simply put, is a vertical tube designed to draw combustion products (smoke and gasses) from an appliance like a wood stove or fireplace to the atmosphere outside the house. Here are the basic parts:
How many vertical passageways are there in a chimney?
Inside a chimney you’ll find one or more vertical passageways called flues. Ideally, each appliance connected to the chimney (such as each fireplace, each furnace, each wood stove) has its own, separate flue. More than one flue might be contained in one masonry chimney. So if you have a furnace and a fireplace connected to the same chimney, there should be at least two vertical passageways up the inside of the chimney.
What are chimney liners?
In a modern masonry chimney, the inner wall of the flue is lined with some type of material for safety, ease of cleaning, and improved performance. Among the most common types of liners are: 1 Terra-cotta : Baked clay liners, also called terra-cotta or tile liners, are generally about 5/8″ thick, and look like two-foot long square, rectangular, or round tubes. They are cemented end-to-end up the inside of the flue to form a continuous, smooth lining. 2 Other modular liners : Terra cotta is not the only material used to make modular liner tubes. Some are composed of refractory cement, volcanic pumice, or a combination of fireproof materials. 3 Stainless Steel : Especially useful in re-lining existing chimneys (But used in new construction, as well), stainless steel liner systems incorporate a metal tube, rigid or flexible, with some type of insulation around it. The metal tube provides a continuous, even lining, and the insulation forms an additional layer of protection and helps keep the flue warm. 4 Aluminum : Some installations of gas-fired equipment allow for the use of lower-cost aluminum liner systems. 5 Cast-in-place : Cast-in-place chimney liners are, in essence, a thick layer of a highly durable, insulative, cement-type material applied to the walls of the flue. One method (but not the only one) for installing a cast-in-place lining involves inserting a removable rubber tube the full length of the flue and pumping the liner material in. The tube is later removed, leaving a smooth-walled, cast-in-place flue liner.
What is the vertical passageway in a chimney called?
Inside a chimney you’ll find one or more vertical passageways called flues . Ideally, each appliance connected to the chimney (such as each fireplace, each furnace, each wood stove) has its own, separate flue. More than one flue might be contained in one masonry chimney.
Where is the cleanout door on a chimney?
At the base of each flue you should find a small, metal cleanout door. When your chimney professional cleans the flue, the soot and debris will be removed through this cleanout access. The exception is a fireplace, which needs no door, since the soot is cleaned out right at the fireplace opening. If you find a door in the cellar centered below the fireplace, it is probably an ash pit door. We will talk about that in the section on fireplaces.
What is a cast in place chimney liner?
Cast-in-place : Cast-in-place chimney liners are, in essence, a thick layer of a highly durable, insulative, cement-type material applied to the walls of the flue.
What is the crown of a chimney?
The crown or top of your chimney is one of the most important elements of the chimney. The best analogy I can offer is to compare it to the roof of your home. Your roof is designed to keep the inside of your house dry. The top or crown of a chimney is supposed to keep the chimney dry. Water that seeps into a chimney can cause all sorts of damage, ...
How deep should a chimney be?
It should be at least one-quarter inch wide and at least three-eighths in ch deep. Last but not least a flashing should be placed on top of all the brick masonry that separates the chimney top or crown from the masonry used to build the chimney.
How thick is a flue liner?
This expansion can crack the top or crown. The contractor needs to wrap the flue liners in thin foam about three-eighths of an inch thick to isolate the flue liners from the concrete mix. Once the crown is hard, they cut away some of the foam and caulk the gap with special masonry caulk.
Why do chimneys freeze?
The top or crown of a chimney is supposed to keep the chimney dry. Water that seeps into a chimney can cause all sorts of damage, especially if the chimney is exposed to cold weather. The water that soaks into the masonry can and does freeze. Water expands as it freezes, and this pressure works to break the bonds of all ...
What is the best way to keep rain from getting into a chimney?
Once all the work is complete, it's a great idea to apply a silane-siloxane clear penetrating water repellent on the sides of the chimney as well as the chimney crown. This sealant will really help keep wind-driven rain from getting into the chimney.
Why do chimneys need an overhang?
Most roofs on houses overhang the outside wall. The reason for this is to minimize water flowing down the sides of the house. You don't want water flowing off the top of the chimney down the sides of the chimney.
Can you build a chimney crown the wrong way?
In almost every cases I've seen no overhang, no reinforcing steel in the top and no flashing under the crown. It's very rare when you come across a chimney crown built the right way.
Where is the flue located in a fireplace?
The flue is located at the top of the fireplace and is the vessel through which gases and smoke travel to exit. Flues are typically made out of baked clay, but can also be found in a stainless-steel material. The chimney is what surrounds the flue.
What are the two types of fireplaces?
The two major designs are masonry and factory-built (or prefabricated) fireplaces.
How does a fireplace work?
Your fireplace creates a column of heated gas inside of the chimney and as the air rises, more heated air is pulled from the fire after it. This process results in a draft, or a balanced flow of hot gases and smoke, up and out of the fireplace ’s chimney.
Why do you need a damper on a fireplace?
However, while your fireplace is being used, you want to ensure that the damper is open so the smoke can exit out the flue.
Why is it important to maintain a damper on a fireplace?
Maintaining the damper is crucial to the safe operation of your fireplace. If your damper is broken, smoke cannot escape out of your home. Or, if the damper becomes stuck in the closed or open position, you’ll likely have drafts.
What is the purpose of a fireplace?
The most important mechanical purpose of a fireplace is to produce a draft.
What is the smoke chamber?
The smoke chamber is the component that connects the flue to the fireplace. At the base of the smoke chamber, you have the smoke shelf, a device that prevents rain, soot, and debris from entering the fireplace. It also refracts downdrafts.
What is a chimney?
CHIMNEY. A structure made of masonry or metal, that usually surrounds and supports the flue for venting hot flue gases or smoke from a fireplace, furnace, stove or insert to the outside atmosphere. Chimneys are typically vertical, to ensure that the gases flow smoothly.
What is a chase chimney?
CHASE. A chase is a wood-constructed chimney. It has a decorative surrounding that covers the multi-wall insulated metal flue inside the chimney. The box is typically covered with vinyl, aluminum or wood siding, or sometimes simulated stone.
How tall is a flue extender?
Taller chimneys will provide better draft and increase performance to the appliance, and usually add 18" to 36" in height.
How does a thimble work?
A thimble allows you to pass a single wall stove pipe from the living area or basement through the combustible material of a wall and into a brick or metal chimney. The thimble reduces the amount of clearance needed from 18" to 2".
Where is the damper on a wood burning fireplace?
Wood-burning fireplaces usually have a damper installed in the upper part of the firebox. The damper is designed to be shut when the fireplace is not in use and can be easily opened when it is. It's common to forget to close the damper after a fire goes out, however, and that leaves a big hole through which heated or cooled air can escape the house. Even when a fireplace damper is closed, the sealing is often not very effective.
What is a self standing outdoor fireplace?
A self-standing outdoor fireplace, with a large round fire chamber open on one side and a vent stack (chi mney). These are used year around and typically found on back patios, decks or in garden sitting areas. They provide for easy starting, efficient burning and great heat. They are made from a variety of materials, but cast aluminum seems to be preferred by most, for its heat output, light weight and strength.
Where is the cleanout door on a firebox?
Located on the floor of the firebox, this door allows you to easily sweep the ash from your firebox, into the ash pit below, and accessible for cleanout by means of a cleanout door.
What is the purpose of a chimney?
Chimney. A chimney provides a safe passageway for waste smoke and gases from a fire to leave the fireplace and be removed from a home. The chimney starts at the top of the firebox and extends vertically through the roof of the house. The chimney must protrude a certain distance above the roofline of the house to ensure sufficient draw on ...
Where is the throat of a chimney?
The throat of the chimney is located at the intersection between the chimney and the fireplace, at the base of the chimney and at the top of the firebox. Below is a picture of me looking up into the throat of the chimney from our living room fireplace. In many fireplaces, a damper can be found located within the throat of the chimney.
What is the purpose of glass doors in a fireplace?
Much like a damper, glass doors can help to prevent heat loss from a home when the fireplace isn’t in use .
What is a fireplace surround?
Surround. A fireplace surround is similar to the face of a fireplace, but is usually more of a decorative feature. It can be found around the opening of a fireplace, but isn’t always found as a non-combustible material like the face of a fireplace. Before redecorating our kitchen, there was a gas insert in the kitchen fireplace with ...
Why do you put a screen on a fireplace?
A fireplace screen is placed onto the hearth to help prevent any hot embers from getting into the room. Read more about fireplace screens here. You can also read my complete guide to fireplace hearths, including examples of materials used as hearths, and regulations for sizes and depths.
What materials are used in a fireplace?
Common materials used as a hearth include granite, marble, stone, concrete, brick, ceramic and quarry tiles. All solid fuel burning fireplaces are required to have a hearth, and the size and depth of a hearth must comply with your local building regulations and code.
Where is the mantel located in a fireplace?
The mantel is located at the top of the fireplace surround, or top of the face of an open fireplace . The mantel provides a shelf on which decorations and other items can be placed, but can sometimes help with preventing smoke from the fire from coming into the room.
