Chimney fires are a major risk for homeowners, with an estimated 22,000+ chimney fires reported in the U.S. every year. These fires can destroy homes, endanger families, and start from something as simple as skipping a yearly chimney inspection.
At Swept Away Chimney, we’ve been helping homeowners across Tampa Bay, Florida stay safe for over 20 years. From chimney sweeping to creosote removal and dryer vent cleaning, our licensed technicians know exactly what it takes to prevent fire hazards before they spark.
Let’s break down the three biggest causes of chimney fires—and how to stop them before they start.
1. Creosote Buildup
Creosote is the #1 cause of chimney fires. It’s a flammable, tar-like substance that forms when smoke, vapor, and unburned wood particles rise through your chimney and stick to the flue walls.
Even just ⅛ inch of creosote buildup is enough to ignite at temperatures around 451°F—well within the range of a normal fireplace fire.
How to Reduce Creosote:
Burn seasoned hardwood only. Avoid green or damp wood, which burns cooler and smokes more—accelerating creosote buildup.
Keep airflow strong. The better your chimney draft, the less smoke lingers and sticks to your flue.
Schedule annual chimney sweep services. Creosote can’t be avoided entirely—but it can be safely removed. Our team at Swept Away Chimney uses professional-grade tools and video inspection to clean your system thoroughly and ensure it’s safe.
2. Debris Inside the Chimney
Leaves, twigs, pine needles, and even roofing material can find their way into your flue—especially during Florida’s stormy seasons. This debris blocks ventilation and dries into highly flammable tinder.
A blocked flue doesn’t just increase fire risk—it also reduces your chimney’s efficiency and can send smoke or carbon monoxide back into your home.
The Solution:
Install a properly fitted chimney cap.
It’s a small investment with big impact. Our team installs durable caps that keep debris out while allowing smoke and gases to escape safely.
3. Animals Nesting in Your Chimney
Squirrels, birds, and raccoons love to nest inside chimneys. It’s warm, sheltered, and dry—a perfect home for them, and a serious hazard for you.
Animal nests block ventilation and can ignite when exposed to heat from a fire. In some cases, blocked chimneys also lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup inside the home.
Keep Animals Out:
Again, a high-quality chimney cap is your best defense. At Swept Away Chimney, we install caps that keep out pests and debris without restricting airflow. It’s one of the simplest ways to prevent a fire before it starts.
Book a Chimney Inspection With Swept Away Chimney
Want to protect your home from chimney fires? Start with an annual chimney inspection and cleaning from the trusted experts at Swept Away Chimney. We serve all of Tampa Bay, including Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, counties.
And if you’ve had a chimney fire—call emergency services first, evacuate safely, and then contact us to assess the damage and restore your system to safe working order.
Schedule Today for Safer Fires Tomorrow
Don’t let creosote, debris, or animals put your home at risk. Call Swept Away Chimney at (727) 596-5946 or book onlinefor fast, friendly, and professional chimney care.
One inspection a year could prevent the fire of a lifetime.