How to Measure the Chimney Flues
A chimney flue is the chamber leading to the opening at the top of the chimney that lets out smoke from the fireplace to the atmosphere. Flues require constant maintenance to ensure they insulate the house from heat and eliminate the risk of fires. A close look is advisable since from the ground the flue can look symmetrical but upon accurately taking measurements, reveals different dimensions than the eye can estimate.
Equipment Needed:
- A good ladder
- Measuring tape
- Notebook and pen
- Gloves
- Flashlight
- Goggles
- Masking tape
- Wear protective gear and carry a measuring tape, a notebook and a pen in a small bag to make sure that your hands are free.
- Place the ladder at the shortest distance to the chimney and make sure that it is firmly grounded to prevent it from sliding down when you are on it. Climb the ladder to the top and carefully make your way to the chimney.
- Remove your measuring tape and measure the length and the width of the top of the flue if the flue is rectangular or square in shape and record the measurement in your notebook. If it is circular, measure the diameter of the opening and write it down.
- Let down the measuring tape into the chimney while holding one end of the tape. Using the flashlight, see whether the measuring tape runs all the way down to the place where the flue reaches the bottom of the chimney.
- Fasten the tip of the measuring tape where the flue reaches and ensure that the masking tape can support the weight of the measuring tape.
- Climb down the ladder and go to the fireplace, where you expect to find the measuring tape hanging. Write down the accurate reading on the tape and pull the tape down the chimney and wheel it back together.
- Use the measurements you wrote on paper to calculate the dimensions of the flue.