Chimney Terminology 101

Chimney talk can be a bit confusing. There are so many different parts, and each one plays an important part in keeping your chimney and fireplace running efficiently. Understanding the different parts of the chimney can be beneficial when something goes wrong and you need to consult with an expert.

Here is a comprehensive list of the different parts of the chimney and their roles in the chimney’s function.

Fireplace – Inside The Home

• Firebox: This is the part of the chimney and fireplace where you start a fire.
• Ash Pit: A compartment built underneath the fireplace that is designed to catch ash. Instead of emptying the ash every time you have a fire, you brush the ash into the pit. There may be a door on the outside of the chimney to empty it.
• Hearth: The floor in front of the fireplace. Its purpose is to protect your home from heat, embers, and sparks.
• Mantel: The shelf above the fireplace is used for decorations, but also deflects heat away from the wall above the fireplace opening.

Chimney – The Venting System

• Flue: This is the passageway that carries smoke, gases, and heat up and out of your home.
• Flue Liner: A protective lining that is inside the flue. Usually made out of clay, metal, or cast in place. The liner protects the walls of the chimney and helps with proper draft.
• Chimney Walls: This surrounds the flue. It can be made out of brick, stone, or a framed chase, which is usually from a prefab system.

Functioning Parts of The Chimney

• Damper: A movable plate that opens and closes the flue. This allows toxic gases to escape from the house when a fire is burning. It also plays a big role in controlling the draft. When the damper is closed, when a fire is out, it keeps cold air out of the home.
• Smoke Chamber: The area above the firebox that allows the smoke into the flue.

Chimney Exterior – The Roof

• Chimney Crown: A concrete slab that seals the chimney and protects it from water damage.
• Chimney Cap: A metal cover on top of the flue to keep rain and snow out, animals and debris from getting into the chimney, and prevent sparks from escaping.
• Chimney Flashing: A metal piece that is attached to the chimney and roof. Its purpose is to prevent leaks at the joint.

Now that you have the basic knowledge, you will have no problem speaking to a professional when you either have questions or need repairs.

A clean chimney is a safe chimney, and we’ll keep yours as safe and efficient as possible. Our owners are certified through the Chimney Safety Institute of America – a stringent industry certification held by only the best sweeps in the U.S. We remove flammable creosote from chimney flues, reducing the chance of a chimney fire. We also remove debris and obstructions that could hamper the drafting of smoke and carbon monoxide.