In this blog we shall be discussing how to check the condition of your fireplace and chimney. Although many fireplaces around London lay dormant, it is still popular practise for many thousands of Londoners to switch on the gas or throw wood on the fire.
If you are someone who still enjoys the use and warm comfort of a fireplace, or you are planning on burning the flame for the first time, then it is really important to make sure that your fireplace and chimney are fully prepared to handle the fire!
Smoke test
If you are unsure of the condition of your chimney, are about to put an old chimney to use after a long period of disuse, or have just constructed a masonry chimney then it is highly advisable to initiate a smoke test.
The purpose of a smoke test is to identify any areas of the chimney through which fumes escape during the chimneys operation.
If you wish to undertake a successful smoke test, then you must follow these steps:
At this stage you will want to establish a flue draw, do this by burning some newspaper in the grate for 2-3 minutes. If there is no grate or fire box, then use a blow lamp for at least 10 minutes to establish a flue draw. The purpose of this is to assist the testing of the flue and is not meant to simulate actual conditions
Next you will place flue smoke pellets on a brick in the opening at the base. The number of flue pellets you use will be determined by a number of factors such as the size of the pellets and the surface area of the flue. Read the pellet manual instructions for an accurate indication.
In this stage you will ignite the pellets, as they start smoking cover the opening with a board or plate sealed at the edges or if an appliance is fitted, close all doors, ash pit covers and vents.
When the smoke rises out of the top of the chimney flue, you must cap off the top with a bag sealed in position by tape. The bag must have a 50mm hole torn into the side of the sealing device.
Stand back and examine the full length of the chimney and keep an eye out for any smoke leaking out of the wall cavities from the side and back of the chimney.
If any smoke is seen to be leaking out of the chimney, then remedial work should be carried out.
After completing maintenance work, repeat the test and see if any smoke still leaks from the chimney.
Internal/External Tests
It is important to make a number of external and internal checks to your chimney. Not only will these checks give you a good idea as to whether it is okay to start a fire, but will also give you a good idea as to what their existing condition is. So while investigating externally, make sure that:
- There’s no buildup of debris in the chimney or around the cap such as a birds’ nest.
- There are no tree branches/limbs in or around the chimney.
- All pointing and brickwork on the chimney is safe and secure.
- The peak of the chimney is located a minimum of two feet above the chimney.
- The cement shoulders at the top of the chimney are beveled – this helps air flow into the chimney.
- You can clearly see that the flue liner is above the chimney crown.
- The chimney is not tilting or leaning to one side.
- All flashing is secured against the chimney.
If you spot any irregularities, then it would be best to call a licensed chimney professional or mason to deal with the problem.
Be wary of the price you are given in any estimate! – It is always safe to get a second opinion from another professional to ensure that you are getting a fair deal.
Internal checks are just as important as external checks. With a flashlight, inspect the flue damper, you should be investigating whether it closes, and shuts properly. It is also important that the damper seals well, if it doesn’t then you’ll lose a large amount of heat from the home when the fireplace isn’t in use.
With the damper of the fireplace open, check for any foreign combustible objects such as animal nests. You should see daylight shining through the chimney if unblocked. Whilst the damper is open it is worth Inspecting the chimney for any cracked bricks or missing mortar.
It is really best to have a professional chimney inspection; professionals are more likely to spot irregularities. An inspection costs an average of £60 – £80.
So don’t be too quick to remove your chimney breasts or serve Party Wall Notices to do away with them!
Fireplaces can bring a real sense of “home” into a property, especially in the winter months!
Give us a call today and our experienced Surveyors will be happy to advise.
