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Creosote logs can help to reduce new creosote build-up by about 60%, however they don’t replace regular cleaning. While creosote logs can help to prevent build-up of creosote in your chimney, they won’t remove build-up that’s already there. Creosote logs can be used as a preventative measure in conjunction with regular cleaning, but you will still need to clean your chimney about once per year.

The answer can vary widely based on a home's age and design. As with any type of remodeling project, assume that every structure is load-bearing until confirming otherwise with a structural engineer. Almost all modern homes have chimneys that are fully independent from the rest of the home's framing. As a result, they don't bear any load beyond their own weight. However, many historic homes built prior to the 1900s contain load-bearing chimneys that tie into the surrounding roof and floor joists. If possible, use a home's blueprints or look for chimney connections that indicate load-bearing qualities to get your answer.

Your fireplace flue is open when the chimney is unsealed and open to the outside air and sky. That’s why one of the best ways to figure out if your flue is open is to visually check for daylight inside of your chimney—or to feel for a draft, which may be generated by the difference in temperatures inside and outside of your home.

Typically, a chimney cap will last from three to 25 years. This wide range is due to variables like climate, the material the cap is made from, and how often you use your fireplace. Regular inspections and maintenance can help extend the life of your chimney cap.