GLOSSARY
Airflow Meter: A device used to measure the amount of air passing through a duct, often used in inspections to assess dryer vent efficiency.
Ash: Residue resulting from the burning of wood or other organic materials.
Blockage: An obstruction within the chimney or dryer vent that can decrease efficiency and increase fire risk.
Breeching: The connection between the boiler or heater to the flue which carries the exhaust gasses to the chimney.
Brushing: A method used in chimney and dryer vent cleaning that involves a specialized brush to scrape off accumulated debris.
Caps (Chimney): Protective coverings placed on top of chimneys to prevent debris and animals from entering.
Ceramic Coating: A type of liquid polymer applied to surfaces to provide protection. When it comes to chimneys or other heating appliances, ceramic coatings are often applied to enhance heat reflectivity and improve durability. These coatings can also serve as an insulating layer, reducing heat loss. Additionally, ceramic coatings can resist corrosion, chemicals, and UV light, making them especially useful in various industrial applications.
Chase: A structure that encloses a factory-built chimney, providing an aesthetic cover that resembles traditional chimneys.
Chase Cover: A metal top that covers the outside of the chimney chase.
Chimney Liner: An inner layer of a chimney, usually made of metal, clay, or ceramic, that protects the chimney walls from heat and corrosion.
Chimney Sweep: A professional trained in cleaning and inspecting chimneys.
Creosote: A black or brown residue that’s a byproduct of burning wood; it can accumulate on chimney walls and become a fire hazard.
Cricket (or Saddle): A small roof-like structure built on the high side of a chimney to divert water on steep roofs.
Damper: A valve or plate that stops or regulates the flow of air inside a chimney.
Draft: The flow of air that allows for efficient combustion in the fireplace and expulsion of gasses through the chimney.
Downdraft: An undesired phenomenon where smoke or fumes are pushed back down the chimney and into the room.
Dryer Exhaust Duct: The tube that channels the warm moist air from a dryer to the outside of the home.
Fireback: A flat piece of metal or ceramic placed at the back of a fireplace to protect the masonry and radiate heat back into the room.
Firebox: The area in a fireplace where the fire is built.
Fireplace Insert: A wood or gas burning stove that fits inside an existing fireplace opening, enhancing its efficiency.
Flashings: Materials used to seal the chimney where it penetrates roofs or walls, preventing water leaks.
Flue: An internal component of the chimney that channels smoke and other combustion byproducts from the fireplace to the outside.
Flue Gas: Gases that are emitted during combustion, especially from burning wood or coal in a fireplace.
Flue Tile: A ceramic piece used to line a chimney, enhancing its safety and efficiency.
Heat Reflector: A device installed at the back of a fireplace to reflect heat back into the room.
Inspection: The process of checking the chimney or dryer vent to ensure they are functioning properly and safely.
Lint Trap: A filter in dryers designed to catch lint from clothes as they dry. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent fire hazards.
Masonry: The brick or stone work of a chimney.
Mortar Crown: The cement part on top of the chimney stack that sheds water away from the flue liner.
Offset: The horizontal distance a chimney or vent might travel inside the home to avoid obstacles before exiting the roof.
Relining: Installing a new liner inside an existing chimney, typically after damage or to meet current safety codes.
Smoke Chamber: The area located above the firebox before the flue, which helps funnel smoke, gases, and other byproducts of combustion.
Smoke Shelf: Located at the base of the smoke chamber, it catches falling debris and prevents downdrafts.
Soot: A black powdery substance produced during incomplete combustion. It accumulates in chimneys and can become a fire risk.
Spark Arrestor: A device installed at the top of chimneys to catch and prevent burning debris or sparks from escaping and causing fires.
Stack Effect: The movement of air into and out of buildings, chimneys, flue-gas stacks, or other containers due to differences in air temperature and pressure.
Stainless Steel Flue Liners: These are liners used in chimneys to efficiently and safely direct the combustion byproducts from the fireplace or heating appliance out of the home. Made from high-quality stainless steel, these liners are durable, resistant to corrosion, and can withstand the high temperatures produced during combustion. Stainless steel flue liners can be used to upgrade or repair existing chimneys, ensuring that they meet current safety standards and function efficiently. They come in both rigid and flexible forms to accommodate various chimney shapes and sizes.
Thimble: The hole, or opening, where the chimney or flue pipe connects to the heating appliance.
Top-Sealing Damper: A damper located at the top of the chimney, providing a tight seal when the fireplace is not in use.
Tuckpointing: The process of repairing or refilling the mortar joints in masonry.
Veneer: A decorative layer of material used to cover the exterior of a chimney or fireplace.
Ventilation: The process of providing fresh air to an interior space and removing stale or contaminated air.
Visual Assessment: A visual check, usually the initial step in inspection, to identify obvious structural issues or debris build-up.
Waterproofing: Applying a sealant or other protective layer to prevent water damage to a chimney’s masonry or other components.
Weathering: Natural deterioration over time, especially due to exposure to the elements. Common for external parts of chimneys.
Wind Cap: A specialized chimney cap designed to prevent wind-driven downdrafts.
Zero Clearance Fireplace: A pre-manufactured fireplace that can be placed directly against combustible walls and floors.