Cons of spark arrestors for thatched properties However, they can only do this if they are spotlessly clean and in optimum working order.Īnd although they are not specifically bird guards, they will help keep general debris, rain/weather and birds out of the flue, preventing them from building nests, which is very dangerous. On paper, spark arrestors are undoubtedly a good idea and could reduce the risk to thatched property owners by catching embers. Read more: I Love My Thatched Property Pros of spark arrestors for thatched properties However, the combustion gases can still flow freely through the mesh and escape. This theoretically prevents the ejected sparks from landing on the roof, nearby trees or flammable materials on the ground, potentially setting them alight. Its purpose is to catch flammable debris, embers or sparks coming up the flue from open fireplaces or wood-burning stoves.

They are either round or square so they can be affixed to the top of a chimney pot or flue. The mesh is what distinguishes them from regular caps or bird/rain protectors. So, what are they, their pros and cons and, more importantly, are spark arrestors necessary? What is a chimney spark arrestor?Ī chimney spark arrestor typically consists of a durable metal (steel or aluminium) cowl with a double layer of mesh on the sides. However many now warn against them in the belief they can contribute to – rather than avoid – fires or other issues.

At one time, most insurers insisted on spark arrestors for thatched properties. But, what about chimney spark arrestors?Ĭhimney spark arrestors are a controversial subject, particularly in the thatched property world. Regular maintenance and inspections of both fire and flue, sweeping, a correct chimney height of 1.8m, good quality flue liners appropriate for the house and fire type, stovepipe thermometers and seasoned wood are all key. There are various ways to ensure the safe and efficient operation of an open fire or wood-burning stove. Chimney spark arrestor: Do I need one for my thatched property?

Spark arrestor