There are a lot of things that could go wrong if homeowners skip chimney cleaning. Fireplaces can bring ambiance and comfort to a home, but they can also wreak havoc if there are issues with them being cleaned. Chimney inspections are also crucial to ensure safety. No one should make the mistake of assuming that their chimneys are in good condition based on how their fireplaces look. Professional inspections are imperative to determine if there are faulty parts that need to be replaced. The following points represent a few of the dangers associated with skipped chimney cleanings.

Chimney Fires

This is one of the most serious consequences of skipping chimney inspections and chimney cleanings. The fires are usually caused by a material called creosote that forms on the lining of the chimney when the wood is burned. The substance is highly flammable by itself, and the combination of soot in an unclean chimney makes it more flammable. These substances are removed during chimney cleanings.

Flue Obstructions

Homeowners in most regions go several months without using their fireplaces. This allows time for animals such as squirrels, birds, or bats to make chimneys a habitat. Their nests or dead pests may block the flue. The obstruction will interfere with ventilation and cause fumes to backdraft back into a home. This can lead to exposure to carbon monoxide exposure, which can cause severe illness or death. Unlike other toxic gases produced by chimneys that need cleaning, carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas. 

Flue Corrosion

If the flue of a chimney gets corroded, it will get holes and cracks in it. The holes may allow toxic gases from the chimney to seep back into a home. The corrosion will also affect the tightness of the joints that hold the flue in place. The fumes may filter past the open spaces between the joints too.

Health Complications

Fireplaces produce several substances such as smoke, creosote, and soot. Those are the most common ones of concern. However, it is important to note that burning wood produces other chemicals especially if a chemical accelerant is used. All of these substances need a safe way to exit the home and not backdraft. A chimney that has not been cleaned or is in need of repairs cannot properly eliminate the fumes. This can lead to respiratory complications from breathing in the toxic fumes. It may also cause headaches, disorientedness, and skin irritations.

A chimney sweep contractor is a good resource to use to learn more reasons why it is important to get chimney cleaning services. They can advise on the appropriate frequency to get chimney inspections and perform repairs to ensure safe fireplace operation.

For more information, contact a company such as Above All Chimney & Masonry.