If you own a fireplace, then you know the importance of investing in regular inspections and chimney care. Common reasons for this are to avoid creosote accumulation, cracks and damages, and ensure everything is working properly to avoid house fires and carbon monoxide leaks.
However, there’s another danger out that many people tend to underestimate or have never heard of: pyrolysis. The definition of pyrolysis is “the chemical or thermal decomposition of a material when it is exposed to heat.” Basically, when pyrolysis occurs to the wood surrounding your fireplace such as framing, this can chemically be altered by the heat and flames.
What is the big deal with pyrolysis?
Over time, the materials surrounding the fireplace then become susceptible to catch on fire. While most wood needs to reach temperatures of at least 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ignite, wood that’s been exposed to pyrolysis can ignite at temperatures as low as 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
Because of this, it’s essential to ensure your system is set up with the proper clearances and meets minimum standards, codes, and regulations to help assure a safer living space for you and your family. The signs of pyrolysis aren’t easily identifiable, as the wood won’t alter in appearance immediately, and may happen slowly over time and with continued use wherever clearances or minimum standards weren’t met. The only way to prevent this is to invest in regular chimney care and system inspection with a professionally trained and certified chimney service company.
Our Team is qualified to help
If you live in or near Grand Junction, then there is simply no better team to rely on than The Chimney Doctor. We are CSIA and NFI certified, and we’re members of many reputable organizations in the chimney sweep world, such as the NFPA and the NCSG. We’re also accredited with the BBB, and the list of institutions we are associated with goes on and on! Needless to say, we’re able to engage in an endless supply of educational seminars and classes. It’s safe to assume we really know all about chimney care.
For a thorough and in-depth inspection this fall, schedule an appointment with our team now. We’ll ensure your system is appropriately running safely and properly so that you don’t need to worry about experiencing pyrolysis or other problems.
The Chimney Doctor is here for you!
You can also count on us for any installation work, too! If you’re ready to have a new stove, insert, or fireplace installed this holiday season, then call our team today! You deserve countless stress-free and relaxing evenings in front of your fireplace. There’s no time to lose when it comes to a better chimney and a safer living space. You can call us or fill out our online contact form to get in touch with us!
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