Page Chimneys [2] Design [2] Construction [7] Estimating brick [18] Smoke test [18] Cleaning and repairing flues [19] Fireplaces [22] Characteristics [22] Modified fireplaces [24] Selecting a fireplace [27] Construction [34] Page Fireplaces—Continued. Dimensions [35] Cost estimate [43] Smoky fireplaces [45] Outdoor fireplaces [46] Types [47] Obtaining plans [48] Construction [48] Operation [51] Barbecue pits [51] Dutch ovens [51]
Page
Chimneys[2]
Design[2]
Construction[7]
Estimating brick[18]
Smoke test[18]
Cleaning and repairing flues[19]
Fireplaces[22]
Characteristics[22]
Modified fireplaces[24]
Selecting a fireplace[27]
Construction[34]
Page
Fireplaces—Continued.
Dimensions[35]
Cost estimate[43]
Smoky fireplaces[45]
Outdoor fireplaces[46]
Types[47]
Obtaining plans[48]
Construction[48]
Operation[51]
Barbecue pits[51]
Dutch ovens[51]

FIREPLACES AND CHIMNEYS should provide a safe place for an open fire and a flue for draft to expel smoke from the fire passage to the open air. They must be properly designed and constructed ([fig. 1]) if good performance and protection against fire are to be obtained.

Figure 1.—A properly designed and well-built chimney that provides ample draft and protection against fire.

CHIMNEYS

DESIGN

Solid masonry is the most satisfactory and safest material to use for chimneys and fireplaces. If a chimney fire occurs, the safety of the building may be dependent on the soundness of the flue walls ([fig. 2]). Cracked and leaky flues not only are inefficient, destroying the draft as well as permitting smoke and gases to pass into adjacent rooms, but are a dangerous fire hazard. The chimney as known today was developed about 600 years ago. Experience has shown that the satisfactory performance of a chimney flue is determined by its size, direction, shape, height, tightness, and smoothness.

Draft