Chimney words, explained
Plain English for the words you hear on a chimney visit.
A
Ash Dump
A compartment in or around the fireplace to collect ashes.
C
Chimney Cap
A cover at the top of the chimney that prevents rain, debris, and animals from entering.
Chimney Crown
The top surface of a chimney built to protect the chimney structure underneath.
Chimney Liner
A lining inside the chimney flue that protects the chimney walls from heat and corrosion.
Creosote
A tar-like substance that can build up in chimneys and is a fire hazard.
D
Damper
A movable plate in the flue that controls airflow and heat in the chimney.
Draft
The upward flow of air in a chimney that carries smoke and gases out of the home.
F
Firebox
The part of the fireplace where the fire burns.
Flashing
Metal sheets installed where the chimney meets the roof to prevent water leaks.
Flue
The duct or pipe in a chimney that allows smoke to exit the house.
L
Lintel
A horizontal support across the top of a fireplace opening.
M
Masonry
The brickwork or stonework part of the chimney structure.
R
Repointing
The process of renewing the mortar joints in masonry constructions.
S
Smoke Chamber
The area above the fireplace where smoke gathers before entering the flue.
T
Thimble
A metal or clay tube that guides stove pipe through a wall into a chimney.
Tuckpointing
The process of repairing the mortar in between bricks on a chimney.
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