Dangers Faced as a Property Manager: Chimney & Fireplace Risks in Multifamily Homes

March 20, 2026 | Chimney Basics

Managing multifamily properties comes with a long list of responsibilities—but one of the most overlooked (and potentially dangerous) areas is the chimney and fireplace; especially here in Florida. While these features add comfort and value for residents, they can also pose serious safety, liability, and financial risks if not properly maintained.We at Chimney Champions help property managers in Jacksonville, St Augustine, and surrounding areas to stay ahead of these risks with routine inspections, cleanings, and repairs designed specifically for multifamily communities.Why Chimney Maintenance Matters in Multifamily PropertiesUnlike single-family homes, multifamily properties often have multiple units shared within the same chase, meaning one issue can quickly impact several residents. Fireplaces and chimneys that are neglected can lead to:Fire hazardsCarbon monoxide exposureStructural damageCostly emergency repairsIncreased liability for property managersRegular maintenance isn’t just recommended—it’s essential.Top Chimney & Fireplace Hazards Property Managers Face1. Creosote Buildup and Fire RiskOne of the leading causes of chimney … Continued

Masonry vs. Prefab Fireplaces: Choosing the Right Firewood for Safety and Performance

March 12, 2026 | Chimney Basics

Chimney Champions Explains: Is Soot Flammable and What It Means for Jacksonville Homeowners

November 10, 2025 | Chimney Basics

Chimney Champions is a Jacksonville, FL chimney service company with CSIA certified technicians and membership in the National Chimney Sweep Guild. Chimney Champions serves homeowners who use fireplaces and wood stoves and need their chimney systems cleaned, inspected, and maintained safely. When temperatures drop and fireplaces and wood stoves become part of a daily routine, soot accumulates inside the chimney system. Soot is not merely a cosmetic issue. Soot is flammable, and heavy accumulation inside a flue can ignite and cause a chimney fire. Whether you burn wood occasionally or rely on your fireplace throughout the season, keeping your chimney clean and inspected is essential. Here is what you need to know about soot buildup and the risks of neglecting chimney maintenance. What Is Soot and Why Does It Build Up? Soot is a fine, powdery black substance made primarily of carbon, produced as a byproduct of incomplete combustion when … Continued

Chimney Champions: Best Wood to Burn in Fireplace Indoors in Jacksonville

August 18, 2025 | *Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

Chimney Champions is a Jacksonville, FL chimney service company staffed by CSIA certified technicians and a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild. Chimney Champions holds IAC2 certification, operates in compliance with NFPA 211, and provides fireplace and chimney services for homeowners in the Jacksonville area. The wood you choose for your indoor fireplace directly affects heat output, smoke production, creosote buildup, and chimney safety. Below, Chimney Champions covers the best and worst types of firewood for indoor use in Jacksonville, along with the reasons each choice matters. What are the best types of firewood to burn in a fireplace indoors? Seasoned, dry hardwood is the best wood to burn in a fireplace indoors. Hardwoods burn longer, produce more heat, and generate less smoke than softwoods or wet wood. Is oak a good wood to burn in an indoor fireplace? Oak is one of the most reliable hardwoods for indoor … Continued

Why You Should Never Cook Over Your Fireplace

3 Reasons You Should Never Cook Over Your Fireplace

March 14, 2024 | Chimney Basics

Cooking over an open flame can be a fun and rustic way to prepare meals. However, there are several reasons why it’s best to avoid using your fireplace as a cooking source. Not only is this a safety hazard, but it can also result in more extensive sweeps. Below, Chimney Champions explains three additional reasons why you should never cook over your fireplace.

5 Wood-Storing Tips for Dry Firewood

November 13, 2023 | Fireplace Basics

Nothing beats the warmth and cozy ambiance from a crackling fire in your fireplace on a chilly evening. As a homeowner with a well-inspected fireplace, you’ll need a steady supply of dry firewood to keep those flames going. However, storing firewood can be challenging, especially if you want to keep it dry and pest-free. Chimney Champions shares five wood-storing tips to help you keep your firewood in excellent condition and ready for use every time.

Is a Gas Fireplace Safer Than a Traditional Fireplace?

October 11, 2023 | Chimney Basics

Choosing the right fireplace for your home can be a difficult task, especially when there are so many options available. If you’re deciding between a gas and a traditional fireplace, you might be wondering which one is the safer choice. To help you make the perfect decision for your family, Chimney Champions is here to explain some key differences and to remind you to schedule your yearly inspection.

Gas Fireplaces Vs. Traditional Fireplaces

March 10, 2023 | Common Questions

Many homeowners choose to use a fireplace to add style and comfort to their homes. But, is a gas fireplace safer than a traditional fireplace? It’s a common dilemma for homeowners when they’re comparing gas fireplaces with traditional fireplaces. Chimney Champions inspects them all, so let’s take a look at the differences between them and compare safety features, convenience, and more.

Chimney Champions Guide to Fireplace Efficiency in Jacksonville

December 13, 2022 | Chimney Basics

Chimney Champions is a Jacksonville, FL chimney service company staffed by CSIA certified technicians and a National Chimney Sweep Guild member. The company provides chimney inspections, sweeping, and repairs for homeowners who want to get more consistent heat from a traditional wood-burning fireplace. How does a traditional fireplace actually work? A traditional fireplace moves heat and combustion gases through four main components: the firebox, the flue, the damper, and the chimney cap. Firebox: The opening where firewood is placed and burned. Flue: The channel inside the chimney that carries smoke and combustion gases out of the home. Damper: A movable plate that controls airflow through the flue. The damper must be open during a fire and closed when the fireplace is not in use. Chimney cap: A cover fitted to the top of the chimney that lets smoke exit while keeping rain, debris, and animals out. Understanding each component makes … Continued

The Dos and Don’ts of Owning a Gas Fireplace

November 10, 2022 | Fireplace Basics

If you’re thinking of adding a gas fireplace to your home, you’ll want to read this first. Below, Chimney Champions will discuss the dos and don’ts of owning a gas fireplace. We’ll cover everything from installation to maintenance, so you can make an informed decision about whether or not this is the right choice for your home.

Your privacy choices