How these fireplaces are built

Many houses built in the 1980s and 1990s around Centennial have factory-built, or prefabricated, fireplaces rather than masonry ones. The firebox is a metal unit, the flue is a metal pipe, and both sit inside a wood-framed chase that is sided to match the house. These systems are designed to be safe when installed and maintained to the manufacturer's listing, with specific clearances to wood framing.

A chimney fire happens when creosote built up inside the flue ignites. It can sound like a roar or a freight train, and some people notice sparks from the chimney top. Afterward, the flue pipe can be warped or separated, the chase framing can be scorched, and smoke can escape into the chase, the attic and nearby walls.

Many of these fireplaces have also been converted to gas logs over the years. A gas conversion does not remove creosote left from years of wood burning, and a damaged flue can affect venting for the gas appliance as well.

What to do next

  • IfYou hear a roar, see flames from the chimney top or smell smoke in the wallsThenGet everyone out and call 911. Do not wait to see if it burns out.
  • IfThe fire is out and the department has leftThenDo not use the fireplace again until a chimney professional has inspected the full flue and chase.
  • IfThere is a smoke smell in an upstairs room or closet next to the chaseThenAsk for the chase to be opened so framing and insulation can be inspected.
  • IfThe inspection finds a damaged prefab unit or flueThenExpect replacement with listed parts or a new unit, not field repairs, and a building permit.

A thorough post-fire chimney inspection

  1. Camera inspection of the flue

    A video scan of the whole flue shows warped sections, separated joints and remaining creosote.

  2. Chase and attic check

    Someone should look inside the chase and attic for scorching, melted insulation or smoke staining.

  3. Firebox and damper

    Panels, refractory and the damper should be checked for cracks and warping.

  4. Chimney top

    The cap, spark arrestor and chase cover are checked for heat damage and water leaks.

  5. Written report

    Ask for photos and findings in writing; your insurer will need them to approve repairs.

Fireplace vocabulary

Creosote
Tar-like residue from wood smoke that coats the inside of the flue and can ignite.
Chase
The framed enclosure, often on an exterior wall, that houses the flue of a prefab fireplace.
Listed
Tested and approved as a system by a testing laboratory; parts and repairs should follow that listing.
Chase cover
The metal cap over the top of a framed chase that keeps water out.

Common questions

Is the smoke smell in the living room from the fireplace or the walls?

Both are possible. If it is strongest in rooms next to the chase or upstairs, smoke likely escaped into the framing and needs more than surface cleaning.

Does homeowner's insurance cover chimney fires?

Sudden fire damage is commonly covered, while long-term wear and maintenance usually is not. Ask your adjuster how your policy treats the flue, the chase and smoke damage inside.

General information for Centennial, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.