Overview
Creosote is the flammable tar-like residue that forms when wood smoke condenses inside a chimney flue. The Industry guidelines classify it in three stages. Stage 1 is a light, flaky soot easily removed by a standard sweep. Stage 2 is hardened, tar-like and requires rotary tools. Stage 3 is a glossy, glazed layer that must be broken down with chemical accelerators before mechanical removal.
Removing creosote isn't optional — it's the single most important thing you can do to prevent chimney fires, which cause an estimated 25,000 residential fires each year. Aura Home Experts evaluates the stage during inspection and quotes the appropriate removal method up front.