Chimney words, explained
Plain English for the words you hear on a chimney visit.
C
Chimney Cap
A protective covering at the top of the chimney to keep out rain, debris, and animals.
Chimney Crown
The top sealing surface of a chimney, designed to protect it from weather exposure.
Creosote
A flammable, tar-like substance that accumulates inside chimneys from burning wood.
D
Damper
A valve used to control or stop airflow in a chimney.
Draft
The movement of air through the chimney, necessary for efficient combustion.
F
Firebox
The part of the fireplace where the fire burns.
Flue
The passageway in the chimney that allows smoke and gases to exit the home safely.
L
Liner
A clay, ceramic, or metal conduit installed inside a chimney to contain products of combustion.
M
Masonry
Brick, stone, or concrete construction used in building chimneys and fireplaces.
Mortar
A mixture used to bond bricks or stones and fill gaps in structures like chimneys.
R
Repointing
The process of renewing the external part of mortar joints in masonry.
S
Smoke Chamber
The area above the fireplace where smoke gathers before moving to the flue.
Soot
A black powdery substance produced by incomplete combustion of coal, wood, and fossil fuels.
Spark Arrestor
A device placed on the top of the chimney to prevent sparks and embers from escaping.
V
Venting
The system that allows fumes and smoke to escape from the fireplace or heating appliance.
W
Waterproofing
A treatment process to prevent water penetration into chimney masonry.
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