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 debris and moisture out.
Chimney Crown
The top element of a chimney that seals the top of the masonry walls.
Chimney Liner
A lining in the flue that protects the chimney walls and improves safety.
Creosote
A flammable tar-like substance that builds up in chimneys from burning wood.
Crown Wash
A sloped layer of mortar at the top of the chimney to direct water away.
D
Damper
A movable plate in the flue to control the draft and airflow in the chimney.
Draft
The flow of air that carries smoke up and out of the chimney.
E
Efflorescence
White stains on the chimney caused by moisture bringing salts to the surface.
F
Firebox
The chamber where the fire burns, typically made of firebrick.
Flashing
Metal pieces that prevent water from entering where the chimney meets the roof.
Flue
The passage inside the chimney that safely vents smoke and gases out of your home.
L
Lintel
A horizontal support across the top of the fireplace opening.
M
Masonry
The brickwork or stonework that forms the structure of a chimney.
R
Repointing
The process of renewing the external part of mortar joints in masonry construction.
S
Smoke Chamber
The area above the fireplace where smoke gets funneled into the flue.
Spark Arrestor
A device installed on the chimney cap to prevent sparks from escaping.
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