How to Maintain a Masonry Chimney and Keep it Functional for Years to Come

Maintaining a masonry chimney is essential for ensuring its longevity and functionality. A well-maintained chimney not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home but also plays a crucial role in the safety and efficiency of your heating system. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the various aspects of chimney maintenance, from identifying signs of damage to performing regular inspections and repairs.

Understanding the Importance of Chimney Maintenance

Chimneys are exposed to various environmental factors, including rain, snow, and extreme temperatures, which can lead to deterioration over time. Regular maintenance is vital for preventing costly repairs and ensuring the safety of your home. Here are some key reasons why chimney maintenance should be a priority:

Safety Concerns

A poorly maintained chimney can pose serious safety hazards, including the risk of chimney fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. Creosote buildup, a byproduct of burning wood, can ignite and cause a fire within the chimney. Regular cleaning and inspections can help mitigate these risks.

Structural Integrity

Over time, moisture can seep into the masonry, leading to cracks and deterioration. If left unaddressed, these issues can compromise the structural integrity of the chimney, potentially leading to costly repairs or even collapse.

Efficiency

A well-maintained chimney ensures proper ventilation for your fireplace or heating system. Blockages or damage can hinder airflow, reducing the efficiency of your heating system and increasing energy costs.

Signs of Damage to Look For

Being proactive in identifying signs of damage can save you from more extensive repairs down the line. Here are some common indicators that your chimney may need attention:

Cracks and Gaps

Inspect the exterior of your chimney for visible cracks or gaps in the bricks or mortar joints. These can develop due to thermal expansion, settling of the foundation, or freeze-thaw cycles. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage.

Spalling Bricks

Spalling occurs when the surface of the bricks begins to flake or chip away, exposing the inner layers. This can be caused by moisture infiltration, rain, and freeze-thaw cycles. Spalling not only affects the appearance of your chimney but also compromises its structural integrity. If you see spalling bricks, have them replaced. If a large area of the chimney is spalling it may need to be rebuilt. Soft bricks are more susceptible to moisture penetration than hard bricks, but unfortunately, builders use soft bricks in many cases because they are less expensive. 

Effleorescence

Efflorescence

Efflorescence appears as white stains on the chimney surface, caused by the migration of salts to the surface due to moisture evaporation. While not harmful in itself, it can indicate underlying moisture issues in the interior that need to be addressed. In most cases, efflorescense is seen on the utility flue side where the water heater, furnace, or boiler are located. Inspection of the interior flues in the chimney are critical to check for washed out mortar joints, gaps, or even missing flue tiles, and properly sized flue liners. 

Water Stains

Look for water stains on the ceiling or walls near the chimney. These can indicate leaks caused by damaged flashing or deteriorated chimney crowns. If left unchecked, water intrusion can lead to mold growth and wood rot. The chimney should be inspected by a professional, who knows how to do leak checks and find the source(s) of the problem. 

Smoke and Odors

If you notice smoke or unpleasant odors entering your home when using the fireplace, it may indicate blockages or airflow problems. Common causes include creosote buildup or debris obstructing the flue.

Regular Inspections: A Key Component of Maintenance

Conducting regular inspections is crucial for identifying potential issues before they escalate. Here’s how to approach chimney inspections:

Frequency of Inspections

It is recommended to have your chimney inspected at least once a year by a qualified professional chimney sweep. This ensures that any signs of damage or deterioration are caught early.

What to Expect During an Inspection

During a professional inspection, the technician will assess the condition of the chimney structure, check for signs of damage, and recommend necessary repairs or maintenance. They will also inspect the flue for blockages, make sure the damper is functioning correctly, check for proper sizing of the flue liner, inspect the smoke chamber, ensure that the chimney cap is in good condition and more. A pro will use a chimney camera system to inspect the interior of the chimney and provide a written report with photos. 

Cleaning Your Chimney

Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining the safety and efficiency of your chimney. Here’s how to approach chimney cleaning:

When to Clean

Schedule a professional chimney cleaning at least once a year, or more frequently if you use your fireplace or wood-burning insert regularly. If you notice a buildup of soot or creosote, it’s time for a cleaning.

DIY Cleaning Tips

If you choose to clean your chimney yourself, ensure that you have the proper tools, including a properly sized chimney brush, a vacuum, tarps, and protective gear. Start by removing the fireplace grate and any ashes, then use the brush to scrub the flue from top to bottom. Note: we do not recommend doing this job yourself unless a pro is not available. 

Waterproofing Your Chimney

Applying a waterproof treatment can help protect your chimney from moisture damage. Here’s what you need to know:

Benefits of Waterproofing

Waterproofing helps prevent water absorption, which can lead to brick deterioration and weakening or deterioration of mortar. It is recommended to reapply the sealant every 2-5 years or when water no longer beads up. Professional chimney sweeps have access to professional-grade water repellent that is not available to the public.

Installing a Chimney Cover

A chimney cap serves as a protective barrier against rain, snow, debris, and animals entering your chimney. Here’s why it’s important:

Benefits of a Chimney Cover

A properly installed chimney cap helps prevent moisture damage and reduces the risk of chimney fires caused by debris buildup. It also keeps birds and animals from entering your chimney and making flammable nests or blockages.

Maintenance of the Chimney Cover

Regularly inspect the chimney cap to ensure it is securely in place and free of debris. If you notice any damage, consider replacing it promptly.

Monitoring for Damage

Being vigilant about monitoring your chimney can help catch issues early. Here are some tips:

Visual Inspections

Conduct monthly visual inspections of your chimney and fireplace. Look for loose bricks, cracks, or signs of water damage. If you notice any issues, contact a professional for further assessment.

Seasonal Maintenance

Perform seasonal maintenance checks, especially before and after the burning season. In the spring, inspect and clean your chimney to remove smelly creosote and assure it is ready for fall. Also check for any damage that may have occurred during the winter.

Safe Burning Practices

Practicing safe burning techniques can help minimize creosote buildup and protect your chimney. Here’s how:

Use Seasoned Wood

Always use seasoned hardwoods in your fireplace or wood-burning stove. These woods produce less creosote compared to unseasoned or softwoods, however, all wood creates creosote that must be removed at some point. Do not burn hedge or dry pine because these woods burn very hot and fast and can lead to a chimney fire. Check moisture content with a moisture meter and make sure it is at or under 20%. 

Avoid Burning Trash

Never burn trash, cardboard, wrapping paper, railroad ties, or other materials that can release harmful chemicals and contribute to chimney damage. Stick to burning only dry, seasoned wood.

Scheduling Professional Repairs

If you notice significant damage or structural issues with your chimney, it’s essential to contact a certified chimney professional for repairs. Here’s what to consider:

Choosing a Professional

Look for a chimney service provider with experience and positive reviews. Ensure they are certified and knowledgeable about masonry repairs.

Importance of Timely Repairs

Addressing chimney issues promptly can prevent further damage and ensure the safety and efficiency of your heating system. Don’t wait until minor problems escalate into major headaches.

Conclusion

Maintaining a masonry chimney is crucial for ensuring its longevity, safety, and efficiency. By conducting regular inspections, cleaning, and addressing any signs of damage promptly, you can keep your chimney functional for years to come. Remember, when in doubt, consult a professional to ensure that your chimney remains a safe and reliable part of your home.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of your fireplace with confidence, knowing that your chimney is well-maintained and safe for use.

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Marge Padgitt is the co-owner of HearthMasters and HearthMasters Publishing. She was a Certified Chimney Sweep from 1990-2004, and an NFI Certified Woodburning Specialist from 2003-2024, when she semi-retired from contracting. Marge is the author of Wood-Fired Heating and Cooking, Your House is Killing You, and The Chimney and Hearth Pro's Resource Book. www.chimkc.com 

Safety Tips for Fireplaces and the Holidays

 Tip #1: Inspections. Some people use their fireplaces year-round and others only build a fire during the holidays - but it is important to have the chimney inspected and cleaned if necessary no matter how much the fireplace is used. This is because things can happen during the year to make fire hazards such as birds or squirrels building flammable nests, masonry deterioration, unseen blockages, etc.

Tip #2: Stockings. In the photo above we see just two stockings hanging above the fireplace, but they are still too close to the fire. Stockings are a fire hazard, so please remove them before building a fire in the fireplace. Also keep all flammable items at least 36" away from the fireplace opening, whether it is wood or gas burning.

Tip #3: Don't Burn Dry Christmas Trees. If you're using a real tree this year, it will dry out by the time January 1 rolls around. Dry pine is the most flammable type of wood but a Christmas tree is the most dangerous. Check YouTube to see some crazy people put their trees into their fireplaces and see them start chimney fires and watch flames shooting out the top of the chimney. Not a good idea. Instead, cut the tree into very small pieces and use them for fire starter throughout the winter.

Tip #4: Don't Burn Wrapping Paper. Keep the pretty wrapping paper out of the fireplace because when it burns it releases toxic fumes. Any paper that has color on it will produce toxins, and that includes magazines, brochures, flyers, etc. As a rule of thumb, only burn cordwood in a fireplace. If you have gas logs, don't put anything in the fireplace.

Have a Safe and Happy Holiday Season!

The CSIA Shares Fire Safety Tips In Honor Of National Chimney Safety Week

 https://www.pdclarion.com/news/state/the-csia-shares-fire-safety-tips-in-honor-of-national-chimney-safety-week/article_8462fa3a-d158-57e4-b81e-238aabfe1338.html

 

PLAINFIELD, Ind., Sept. 24, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Each year, the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and thousands of industry professionals spend the last week in September sharing chimney safety tips and educating homeowners on how to best maintain and use their chimneys and fireplaces.

Designated National Chimney Safety Week by the CSIA back in 1978, this annual observance serves as a reminder to homeowners to take fire safety into their own hands and to schedule annual maintenance services prior to using their fireplaces each year.

According to the latest numbers from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, an average of 22,300 U.S. residential structure fires were caused by chimneys, fireplaces, or chimney connectors between 2012-2014, resulting in an average of 60 injuries, 20 deaths, and $116.4 million in property loss each year.

The mission of the CSIA and the goal of National Chimney Safety Week is to lower these numbers dramatically by training industry professionals and educating homeowners on the importance of proper chimney maintenance.

Annual maintenance should include:

• A yearly chimney inspection by a CSIA-certified chimney technician
• A yearly chimney cleaning, if needed

It only takes a matter of minutes for a chimney fire to spread to other areas of the home, but a few minutes of proactive care can reduce that risk, so homeowners can safely enjoy their fireplaces this fall and winter.

Chuck Roydhouse, President of CSIA shares,

"It's not just wood-burning chimneys that can be hazardous. Gas fireplaces, gas or oil heating furnaces and water heaters, and other fuel-burning appliances can create unsafe chimneys, too. External factors other than fire source can cause dangerous situations, including: weather, animals residing in the flue, aging structure, and foreign obstructions. So, inspect chimneys every year."

To find a CSIA-certified sweep in your area, head to https://web.csia.org/search.

About CSIA
The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) is a nonprofit organization governed by a volunteer board of directors dedicated to the education, training, and certification of chimney and industry related professionals. Additionally, we strive to advance public awareness about the dangers of chimney fires and other problems related to the maintenance and performance of chimney and venting systems.

CSIA is the only non-profit national training academy for chimney technicians, and the CSIA-Certified Chimney Sweep® credential is acknowledged by industry organizations, insurance underwriters, local, state, and federal agencies as the measure of a chimney and venting technician's knowledge about the evaluation and maintenance of chimney and venting systems. CSIA is the standard of excellence in the chimney and venting industry.

 

Chimney Safety Warning During Arctic Blast

The Midwest Chimney Safety Council warns homeowners to safely operate wood and gas heating appliances during periods of bitter cold in order to avoid fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.

December 29, 2017
Kansas City, Missouri

The National Fire Protection Association statistics indicate that there are 245,000 house fires annually caused by heating equipment such as wood-burning stoves and fireplaces. The Midwest Chimney Safety Council believes that this number is only a fraction of the actual statistics based on findings by chimney sweeps who service chimneys.

The NFPA states that there are 72,000 deaths caused by Carbon Monoxide exposure annually.  

During periods of very cold weather more accidental fires and CO poisoning occur. The Midwest Chimney Safety Council recommends that homeowners take measures to assure the safety of their family by following these recommended guidelines:

·      

C.Scott Dorret - Fotolia.com

Do not use an open fireplace for heating purposes. Fireplaces are decorative appliances to be used for ambience only. Over use of an open fireplace can cause hidden combustibles in the walls or framing around the fireplace to ignite and cause a house fire. This applies to manufactured fireplaces and masonry fireplaces.

•      Do not leave a wood-burning stove or fireplace unattended.
•      Do not burn hedge, dry pine, or a Christmas tree in a fireplace or stove. These woods burn very hot and fast, and can cause a chimney fire.
•      Do not burn treated wood or colored paper in a fireplace or stove. These items create toxic fumes which can cause illness or death.
•      Don’t burn anything other than dry cordwood or pallet wood in a fireplace or stove.
•      Have a fireplace inspected and swept annually by a professional CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep. Sweeping removes flammable creosote from the smoke chamber and flue liner. Have a wood-burning stove or insert swept twice per year.
•      Keep the accumulation of flammable creosote down by using a product like Anti-Creosote Spray each time a fire is burned.
•      Place ashes in an ash bucket and take outside to cool off with the lid on the bucket on a non-combustible surface before disposing of them or putting them in the garden. Ashes and embers can smolder for up to two weeks.
•      Have furnace, boiler, or water heater flues inspected annually by a professional chimney sweep to assure that the flue is not clogged by nests or debris, is sized correctly, and does not have cracks or voids which can cause Carbon Monoxide backup into the home. Even low levels of CO not detectable by a CO detector can cause illness and permanent brain damage.
•      Do not ignore a CO detector alarm- CO is colorless, odorless, and tasteless so there is no way a human can detect CO.
•      Be sure to install new batteries and assure proper operation of smoke detectors. Install at least one smoke detector on each level of the house, including in the attic near the chimney.
•      In case of a chimney fire or CO alarm, get out of the house and call the fire department immediately.

The Midwest Chimney Safety Council is a 13-state regional association which provides educational classes and workshops to chimney and hearth industry professionals and the public.  

Contact Marge Padgitt at mcsc@mcsc-net.org or 816-461-3665 or contact one of our members listed on the website for more information. 

Levels of Inspections for Chimneys

The Chimney Safety Institute of America describes the different types of chimney inspections as they are set in the NFPA 211 Standard. When a Certified Chimney Sweep performs an inspection he/she will be following the guidelines for a Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3 inspection of your chimney.

 See more at: http://www.csia.org/ccs-cdet-only/ccs_buttons_for_your_web_site.aspx#sthash.0Te0xroJ.dpuf

In my opinion, a Level 2 inspection should be performed whenever possible. With this type of inspection using an internal camera system to see the condition of the entire flue liner the homeowner will get a more accurate overview of the condition of the chimney. A Level 1 inspection should be reserved for very short flues only. A Level 3 inspection, which involves some demolition work, is not practical for most situations and is usually reserved for an instance where an event has occurred such as a structural fire or lighting strike.
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Marge Padgitt is the president and CEO of HearthMasters, Inc. in Kansas City, Missouri.

National Chimney Safety Week brings needed awareness to the public

For National Chimney Safety Week September 9 to 18, 2015 the Midwest Chimney Safety Council reminds homeowners and restaurant owners to be diligent about maintaining their chimneys serving fireplaces, furnaces, boilers, wood stoves, and restaurant ovens.

fotolia.com

The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission released the latest statistics for residential structural fires which indicates that 21,200 hostile fires were attributed to fireplaces, chimneys or chimney systems in 2012, with an average of 22,700 occurring annually from 2010 to 2012.  According to the National Fire Protection Association in 2011 heating equipment was involved in an estimated 53,600 reported U.S. home structure fires, with associated losses of 400 civilian deaths, 1,520 civilian injuries, and $893 million in direct property damage. 

While these numbers continue to decline due to public-awareness efforts by the Midwest Chimney Safety Council, the Chimney Safety Institute of America, chimney sweep companies and firefighters, the message is still not getting to everyone. 

Mr. Charles Stanley of Lee's Summit, Missouri experienced a chimney fire in early 2015. "I didn't know that a chimney flue needed to be swept at all, much less annually. I burned wood in the fireplace for eleven years without having it swept out, but after an experience like this I won't forget to have the chimney cleaned," said Stanley. The fire was contained to the chimney structure, which sustained over $20,000 in damages. A local chimney company removed the damaged flue liner and installed a replacement liner, then repaired damaged bricks on the interior and exterior chimney. Charles said that had he known that chimneys needed regular service he could have avoided the chimney fire. 

From the NFPA

The National Fire Protection Association recommends annual inspection of flues of all types that serve gas or wood-burning appliances, and sweeping as necessary to remove flammable creosote. Creosote should be removed when ¼” has accumulated on the flue walls. Depending on the amount of wood burned restaurant ovens usually need monthly or bi-monthly sweeping, open fireplaces typically need annual sweeping, and wood stove flues and chimneys may need sweeping two or three times during the burning season.

Creosote accumulates when any type of wood is burned including hardwoods. Gas appliances don’t produce creosote, however, the flue needs to be in good condition or it could be a carbon monoxide hazard. Common issues with gas flues are gaps or cracks in flue liners, clogs in liners, and missing flue liners. Correct flue sizing is critical to proper operation. This is something a professional chimney sweep can check when doing an inspection.

The MCSC recommends that a professional chimney sweep who is certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America do the inspection and sweeping. CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps are trained in sweeping methods, inspections, codes, and clearances. The proper equipment is needed to do a thorough inspection and remove creosote, which involves a chimney camera system and other tools of the trade.

There are now over 1,500 CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps across the United States with more added annually. To find a professional chimney sweep visit the Midwest Chimney Safety Council website at www.mcsc-net.org or the Chimney Safety Institute of America website at www.csia.org.

_________________

Marge Padgitt is the president of the Midwest Chimney Safety Council and a 30+ year industry veteran. She is a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep and NFI Woodburning Specialist. Contact Marge at margepadgitt (at) comcast.net. 

  

Use of fireplace for heating can cause house fire

Photo: CScottDorrett - Fotolia.com

During the extreme cold we are experiencing throughout much of the United States this winter many people attempt to use their fireplace as a source for supplemental heat. But what most homeowners are unaware of is that fireplaces are designed for ambient fires only, and are not meant to be used for heating purposes.

Open fireplaces are inefficiently designed so that most of the heat escapes into the flue, rather than the home. In fact, open fireplaces use heated room air for combustion, thereby lowering the temperature inside the house. Exception: Rumford style fireplaces.

According to the Midwest Chimney Safety Council, chimney sweeps are reporting record calls for chimney service, no doubt due to the unusually long and bitterly cold winter. What the chimney sweeps are finding out is that their customers have been using their fireplaces as a heating source, rather than for just the occasional friendly fire. That is when trouble can happen.

Open wood-or gas burning fireplaces are designed with clearances to combustibles set at certain distances with the idea that people will use their appliance for short periods of time – up to four hours in duration. Once that time has been exceeded, or before if improperly installed,  the nearby combustible materials may overheat and ignite. Combustible headers and studs, which are hidden from view by finishing materials may not be properly installed with proper clearance, which makes matters even worse. Unfortunately, improper construction around fireplaces is a common issue and many house fires have been the result.

Nearby combustible wood may pryolizes over time due to exposure to heat through the masonry or metal fireplace. Pyrolization is the chemical alteration of wood, which lowers the ignition temperature significantly. Wood normally ignites at 500 degrees, but pyrolized wood can ignite at 180 degrees or lower.

After a Raytown, Missouri house fire in 2009 Fire Investigator Gene Padgitt was requested to find the cause and origin of the fire. The customer had used their masonry fireplace as the sole source of heat for three days while they had no gas after moving in their new home on a Friday. Combustible wood framing, which was improperly installed above the fireplace without proper clearances, ignited due to exposure to heat for the prolonged period. Padgitt said that this scenario is all too common and that unfortunately, he sees it often.

In yet another fire investigation in Topeka, Kansas in 2012 Gene found that the homeowner used a manufactured gas fireplace for seven days straight when wood framing, which was properly installed, ignited. The fire caused a total loss. The homeowner thought that he could heat his house with the fireplace.

This type of burning is called "Over-firing" in the chimney and hearth industry. The fact is that masonry fireplaces do not come with a homeowner's manual, and rarely do new home buyers find a manual for their manufactured fireplace. So it is up to the homeowner to get operation information from his chimney sweep or from websites.

Certain wood and gas appliances are designed for heating, while others are designed for ambient fires. Since there are no standards in the industry that have been adopted for masonry fireplaces, Padgitt suggests that homeowners use common sense when operating a fireplace or stove.  He suggests the following:

Appliances designed for ambient fires:

• Wood-burning manufactured fireplaces (read the manufacturer instructions)
• Wood-burning masonry fireplaces
• Gas-burning manufactured fireplaces (read the manufacturer instructions)
• Gas-burning masonry fireplaces

Appliances designed for heating:

• Wood-burning freestanding stoves with proper clearances
• Wood-burning fireplace inserts in masonry fireplaces
• Wood-burning masonry heaters
• Direct-Vent Gas fireplaces (per manufacturer instructions)
• Non-Venting gas logs in masonry fireplaces (read the manufacturer instructions which likely state that they are not to be used for longer than four hours at a time)

All gas and wood burning appliances should be installed by a professional technician, and inspected annually and swept or serviced as necessary by a professional chimney sweep or certified technician. Wood-burning stoves and inserts should be swept at least twice per season if used for primary heating purposes, or used on a regular basis in order to remove flammable creosote.

Note: Non-Venting gas logs and wood-burning fireplace inserts should never be installed in manufactured fireplaces. To do so voids the warranty on the fireplace, and alters the fireplace which is a code violation. Any alteration can be a fire hazard.

Resources:
Masonry Heater Association of North America
Chimney Safety Institute of America
Midwest Chimney Safety Council
National Fire Protection Association

Older Gas Flues a Potential Carbon Monoxide Hazard

Furnace flue mortar joint completely deteriorated

Older chimney flues serving gas appliances such as furnaces, boilers, fireplaces, and water heaters are a potential Carbon Monoxide hazard.  The older masonry flues are typically in poor condition unless they've been maintained over the years.  Rain water and condensation from acidic flue gasses can cause mortar joints to deteriorate and wash out over the years, leaving gaps that can allow Carbon Monoxide and other gasses to enter the living space of the home.

A second cause of CO backup is clogs in the flue or connecting pipe caused by deteriorated mortar, falling bricks, bird nests, leaves and other debris, which block the flue.  To avoid this issue, have a professional chimney sweep inspect the flue annually to check for potential problems and have repairs completed by a qualified contractor who specializes in chimney work.

Gene Padgitt, HearthMasters, Inc. 

HVAC contractors do not normally inspect, repair, or replace flue liners and this is not a part of an annual furnace tune-up or checkup.  Professional chimney sweeps are trained in chimney maintenance and repair and are the best persons to call for chimney work.

Gene Padgitt of HearthMasters, Inc. in Independence, Missouri said that he sees several gas flues per week that are in poor condition and need repair.  "CO is not something to ignore, it is a real health hazard, said Gene."  Unfortunately, many homeowners don't know the condition of their gas chimney flues.  Hidden internal damages can be costly to repair.

Padgitt suggests contacting a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep to do inspections and repair.

Stainless steel chimney covers

Carbon Monoxide is odorless, tasteless  and colorless. It is often referred to as the "Silent Killer."   More cases of CO illness and death occur during winter months when heating appliances are in use and houses are closed up.  Symptoms of CO poisoning are unexplained headaches, nausea, dizziness  fatigue, flu-like symptoms, passing out, and death.

A Carbon Monoxide detector can alert occupants to a CO hazard.  If an alarm goes off, don't ignore it, check to see what the problem is or call the gas company immediately.

Installation of a heavy duty stainless steel chimney cover, or a custom-made cover to protect several flues in the same chimney will help prevent damages due to rain.  All flues need chimney covers.

Chimney and Dryer Vent Fire Prevention Classes

The Midwest Chimney Safety Council offers classes to organizations hosting events for at least 40 people. MCSC Educational Director Marge Padgitt is available to speak to homeowner and professional groups about chimney and dryer vent fire prevention, chimney maintenance and fireplace operation, wood purchase and storage, historic chimney restoration, house pressure issues, and methods used to reline and repair chimneys.

There are over 15,000 dryer vent fires and over 14,000 chimney fires each year caused by improper or inadequate maintenance. Lint and creosote are flammable and must be removed in order to avoid fire. The Midwest Chimney Safety Council website has free homeowner tips on chimney, fireplace, and wood-burning stove operation at www.mcsc-net.org.

Marge Padgitt is a 30-year industry veteran, CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep, and National Fireplace Institute Wood-burning Specialist. Padgitt is the author of 12 books including The Chimney and Hearth Pro's Resource Book, and Wood -Fired Heating and Cooking. She is the CEO of HearthMasters, Inc. in Independence, Missouri, and host of Wood-Fired Radio on Global Radio Alliance Network.

Classes are free to small homeowner groups in the greater Kansas City area. Fees are charged for larger groups or associations outside the area. Contact Marge Padgitt at 816-461-3665 or margepadgitt@comcast.net for more information.