How to Fireproof a Wood Fireplace Chimney

Close the fireplace to trap ash and debris inside of it. Open the chimney flue all the way.

Scrub out the inside of the chimney using a chimney brush from the roof of the home. Push the brush down the chimney and use an up and down motion to force soot and creosote debris off of the chimney walls. Use a chimney cleaner to further soften the deposits so they dislodge with less friction. Wear appropriate safety gear to prevent falling.

Vacuum out the deposits that fell from the chimney into the fireplace using a shop vac.

Install a chimney liner. The installation method varies depending on your model of liner and your chimney, so follow all installation instructions. Most liners come with an installation kit. The liner provides a surface that is smoother and more resistant to deposit buildup.

Clean the chimney liner every few months or at least once a year, depending on how often you use the fireplace, in accordance with your liner instructions. Proper chimney and liner maintenance reduces the risk of chimney fire.