We all know that a chimney is a part of a fireplace. More precisely - an open wood fireplace consists of a hearth where wood is burned for heat and a chimney flue for expelling the smoke and feeding the fire with regulated air. An important part of a fireplace chimney is the shuttered damper, which provides an exit for smoke as well as creates an updraft that draws fresh air to the fire.

There are two main types of fireplace chimneys: Factory-built metal chimney and a masonry chimney.

• Factory built chimneys are easier to install and at a lower price.
• Masonry chimneys are usually made of brick, block or stone. They are more expensive and harder to install than factory built chimneys but in expense of that they incorporate a classical appearance and beauty.

To function properly, a fireplace chimney should be at least 10 or 12 feet in overall height. Where it projects above the roof, the chimney should be at least 3 feet tall, and at least 2 feet higher than anything within 10 feet of it-including other buildings, trees, etc. One other thing that can affect the efficiency oh a fireplace chimney is that the gradual accumulation of soot can seriously affect the way your chimney performs. Thick layers of soot can physically restrict the flue so there is no longer enough free area to vent the fireplace properly. Thus, a fireplace chimney should be swept and cleaned at least once a year by a professional.