Home Inspection State Practice Exam

Creosote is most likely to be created in a chimney when burning?

1. Seasoned pine

2. Unseasoned oak

3. Hardwood pellets

4. Processed wood

The correct answer is: Unseasoned oak

Creosote is a byproduct of burning wood that can accumulate in chimneys, posing a fire hazard if not properly managed. It is particularly created when wood is burned at lower temperatures or when the wood has a high moisture content. Unseasoned oak falls into the category of wood that is more likely to produce creosote because it contains a higher moisture content compared to seasoned wood. When unseasoned wood burns, it tends to smolder rather than burn efficiently, resulting in incomplete combustion. This incomplete combustion creates cooler temperatures in the flue system, leading to the formation of creosote through the condensation of byproducts of combustion. In contrast, seasoned pine or properly dried hardwood pellets would burn more efficiently, producing higher temperatures that promote better combustion and significantly reduce the production of creosote. Processed wood also often has lower moisture content and burns more cleanly. Thus, the type of wood and its moisture level play crucial roles in the creation of creosote in chimneys.