The flue is not a single item, but rather the internal vertical passageway inside the chimney that allows smoke and combustion gases to safely exit your home. Think of the chimney as the outer brick or stone shell, and the flue as the hollow "highway" or inner tunnel inside it.
Fireplace Flue Tiles: The vertical passageway up the inside of the chimney is the flue. The damper is often (mistakenly) called the flue, but the flue is the passageway. Clay flue tiles are the most common material used to line masonry chimneys when built.
Have your chimney flue cleaned and inspected at least once a year. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) advises annual maintenance, even if you rarely use your fireplace, to remove hidden animal nests, blockages, or moisture damage.
No, not all fireplaces have a flue. While wood-burning and many traditional gas fireplaces rely on a flue (a duct or chimney pipe) to exhaust combustion gases, modern ventless or electric fireplaces do not require any venting or flues at all.
Not all chimneys have a flue, though almost all active, wood-burning or gas fireplaces require one. A chimney is the exterior masonry or wood structure, while the flue is the enclosed passageway or duct inside it.
Ever seen one of these gas terminals on top of a house? This is usually a sign the home has a pre-fabricated flue system. These are made up of metal interlocking flue pipes that connect to a flue box, which in turn connects to the gas terminal.
The cost of chimney repairs varies depending on the severity of the damage and type of repair. Minor repairs can range from $200 to $800, while major repairs like flue replacements or structural rebuilds can cost $1,000 to $5,000 or more. It's essential to get multiple estimates for accurate pricing.
Yes, mice absolutely can and do come down chimneys, utilizing them as warm, sheltered, and vertical pathways to enter homes. Mice are excellent climbers that can scale the exterior brickwork, enter through gaps or cracks, and move down the flue into the fireplace or attic.
The worst firewood to burn falls into two categories: toxic and highly inefficient. You should never burn wood that produces dangerous chemical fumes or excessive smoke, nor wood that burns too quickly or spits hazardous sparks.
The number of flues your chimney needs depends on the type and amount of appliances it's used for. Generally, each fireplace, wood stove, or fuel-burning appliance should have its own flue. This separation provides proper venting and prevents the mixing of exhaust gases from different sources.
According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), fireplaces need to be cleaned once there is 1/8″ of creosote and/or soot buildup inside the chimney liner. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), all chimneys should be cleaned at least once every year, regardless.
Creosote is dissolved by products like ACS (Anti-Creo-Soot). Anti-Creo-Soot Remover will turn the hard glazed creosote into a powder. ACS is our #1 Creosote remover product and very easy to apply! Just spray ACS in your fireplace or woodstove every time you light a fire to prevent and eliminate creosote build it.
Additionally, in the early 1980's, tests were conducted to discover which kind of wood created the most creosote in a regular “open” fireplace. The results were surprising. Contrary to popular opinion, the hardwood's, like oak and poplar, created more creosote than the softwoods, like tamarack and pine.
An obstructed flue
Creosote, for example, can potentially break off and catch ignite, leading to a house fire. Other flue obstructions, such as debris or animal nests, can cause dangerous gas vapors to back up into your living areas — not to mention the possibility of smoke damage throughout your home.
The metal piece on top of a chimney is called a chimney cap. It typically features a sloped metal hood (often made of stainless steel or copper) and a wire mesh screen.
It is illegal to burn any wood that has been treated, painted, or glued, as well as poisonous plants and driftwood. Burning these materials releases toxic chemicals, heavy metals, and hazardous fumes into the air.
Properly cured, or "seasoned" firewood needs to be cut, split and stacked for a minimum of six months to be properly dried for this fall and winters fireplace needs.
Burning engineered, treated, or chemically exposed wood releases hazardous toxins. The most dangerous woods to burn include:
Mice have an incredibly sensitive sense of smell and absolutely despise strong, pungent, or spicy aromas. These smells overwhelm their senses and act as natural deterrents.
Rats are a primary food source for a wide variety of animals. Their most significant natural and artificial predators include:
Screaming when you see a mouse is usually an involuntary response combining an evolutionary startle reflex with an innate sense of vulnerability. Several factors explain this instinctual reaction:
When you choose your local Mr. Handyman®, you can be confident that your chimney repair and replacement services will be handled by an experienced professional who will help extend the life of your chimney and ensure it operates correctly.
Water damage drives some of the most expensive chimney repairs:
Most homeowners insurance policies will cover chimney repairs caused by sudden and accidental events, such as fires, storms, or falling trees. Damage from wear and tear, poor maintenance, or construction defects is usually not covered.