Chimneys are essential to wood-burning fireplaces and stoves, and they’re prone to many problems if you don’t stay on top of maintenance and repairs. One problem that many people find odd, however, is chimney noise. This post examines what causes chimney noises and what you can do about it.
Wind Noise
The wind is the most common cause of chimney noise. When strong winds blow across the chimney’s top, they create a howling or moaning sound that may make you feel like you’re living in a haunted house. It’s the same principle as blowing across the top of an open bottle when you were a kid to make noise.
The solution is to install a chimney cap to redirect the wind, preventing it from blowing across the top or into the chimney. Chimney caps also prevent debris and animals from getting in, creating blockages.
Thermal Expansion and Contraction
When the metal chimney components, like the flue liner or damper, heat up and cool down, it creates creaking or clicking sounds as the metal changes shape.
While it’s impossible to prevent expansion and contraction completely, you can ensure the chimney’s metal components are in good condition and were installed correctly, which can minimize the noise. Hiring a professional to insulate the flue liner is also helpful which can reduce rapid temperature changes.
Wildlife
Birds, squirrels, raccoons, and other small animals are cute so long as they stay out of the house. Chimneys attract these animals because they give them a warm, secure place to make nests or seek shelter. Once animals get in, however, you may hear chirping or scratching, which is annoying. Moreover, when animals get into the flue and build nests or die, they create blockages, which can impede your fireplace’s performance and put you at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning because the gas can’t escape.
The solution is the same as wind noise: installing a cap with a mesh barrier to prevent animals from getting in.
Downdrafts
When outside cold air rushes down the chimney and meets the warm air in the house, it creates a booming or puffing sound, often accompanied by a rush of cold air, making it more difficult to light a fire.
The solution is to install a top-sealing damper to prevent downdrafts and to ensure your home is adequately ventilated to reduce the differences in air pressure.
Creosote Buildup
Creosote is one of the most dangerous chimney issues because it’s highly corrosive and flammable. Creosote is a tar-like substance that builds up in the flue, and when it reaches a specific thickness, you may hear crackling or popping noises if it ignites.
The solution to creosote buildup is to hire a certified professional chimney sweep for annual cleaning and maintenance. Hiring a certified contractor is essential because they have the training, tools, and experience to do the job thoroughly and safely.
Call the Pros at Fluesbrothers Chimney and Fireplace
Whether your chimney is too noisy or needs repairs or thorough cleaning, you can count on the trusted professionals at Fluesbrothers. Our technicians are certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America and the National Fireplace Institute, so you can trust them to do the job right the first time, every time. Call us today to book your appointment at 913-236-7141.
