The difference in creosote buildup from my old wood stove jobs to now is pretty clear

Adam Davis · 2026-04-21T07:30:11.474036+00:00

I was looking back at my photos from 2018 and the chimneys I cleaned then had way more thick, glazed creosote. Now, most of my calls in the Boise area are for lighter, flaky deposits. I think it's because more people have switched to newer, EPA certified stoves that burn hotter and cleaner. What's the most common type of buildup you all are seeing these days?

lisaf385mo ago

Actually, the flaky stuff can be way worse if it's stage three and mixed with tar.

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nancy_smith5mo ago

That's a really interesting observation. In my area, we're still seeing a mix, but the older homes with inserts seem to be the worst for the hard, shiny stuff. Are you finding the flaky creosote easier to clean overall, or does it just make a bigger mess?

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martin.felix5mo ago

Nancy_smith makes a good point, the flaky stuff gets everywhere but at least it comes off easier.

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