Shop Talk, Vol. 9: Do You Know If Your Chimney is Santa-Safe?

Christmas is no small operation – it takes the Guy in Red an entire year to orchestrate. After all that effort, it’s common courtesy to ensure his point of entry is up to par. In doing so, you’ll also be keeping your home and your family safe from the many potential hazards of a neglected chimney. Don’t end up on next year’s naughty list; be sure that your chimney is Santa-safe.

It comes each time this year! We are of course talking about your annual chimney inspection, which identifies any build-up of creosote, a combustible tar-like substance responsible for many chimney fires. An inspection can evaluate the level of soot and creosote accumulation in the structure. Annual chimney maintenance involves removing these flammable by-products, thereby extending the lifespan and security of your home’s chimney.

These hazards are the cause of many home fires, many of which go unnoticed. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) reports,

Slow-burning chimney fires don’t get enough air or have fuel to be dramatic or visible and they often go undetected until a later chimney inspection, but, the temperatures they reach are very high and can cause as much damage to the chimney structure – and nearby combustible parts of the house – as their more spectacular cousins.

Another factor to be extremely cautious of is carbon monoxide. When the damper in the fireplace is not fully open, smoky air containing carbon monoxide can move throughout the house. Colorless and odorless, the deadly gas goes undetected without the proper equipment. Be sure you have multiple detectors throughout the house, especially in areas in close proximity to the fireplace.

While you’re getting your fireplace cleaned, also have your professional take a look at your flue. Though typically less of a concern than the chimney itself, the flue can still collect creosote over time. With annual chimney inspections and maintenance, you can rest assured that your home is free from these life-threatening hazards. And when your chimney is Santa-safe for the Christmas crew, you might just make it on to their VIP-list.

Aryne + Dulcinea

Earth Advantage & ADU Specialist Brokers

Click here to get to know Aryne + Dulcinea! As full-service agents with over 17 years of dynamic experience, Aryne + Dulcinea understand how to navigate the unique challenges facing the Portland real estate market. The secret to their success lies in their complementary skill sets. In 2012, Aryne + Dulcinea saw an opportunity to combine their creative and technical wisdom to create a values-driven, full-service agency unlike any other. As expert negotiators and project management mavens with strong backgrounds in creative marketing, Aryne + Dulcinea serve as fierce advocates for their clients. Their passion for real estate relates closely to their commitment to the Portland way of life, which entails a dedication to sustainability and appreciation for all things local. As Earth Advantage Brokers and ADU Certified Specialists, Aryne + Dulcinea are savvy in all aspects of alternative living practices—from versatile housing additions, green building practices, and revenue-generating strategies. Over the course of their professional partnership, Aryne + Dulcinea have helped nearly 200 clients prosper in their new lives. During this time, they have prided themselves on their top-notch selling abilities, with homes outperforming market standards, consistently exceeding list price while most of their listings sell in under 7 days. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, Aryne & Dulcinea will work in collaboration to guide you in investing in your future and reaching you real estate goals.

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