InterNACHI Fireplaces, Chimneys & Solid Fuel Appliances 2

Question 1

Spalling observed on a masonry chimney exterior refers to:

Accepted Answer

Flaking or breaking off of the face of brick or stone surfaces

Answer

Horizontal cracks forming along mortar joints between brick courses

Answer

White mineral deposits on the chimney surface

Answer

Separation of the chimney from the main structure at the foundation

Question 2

Efflorescence on a chimney indicates:

Accepted Answer

Water is moving through the masonry and depositing minerals on the surface

Answer

Creosote migration through the masonry from the flue

Answer

Spalling of the outer brick face due to freeze-thaw cycles

Answer

Thermal expansion cracks forming near the chimney cap

Question 3

What is the function of the smoke shelf inside a masonry fireplace?

Accepted Answer

To catch falling debris and prevent downdrafts from pushing smoke into the room

Answer

To provide a mounting surface for the throat damper assembly

Answer

To increase the velocity of smoke entering the flue

Answer

To separate the primary combustion air from the secondary air supply

Question 4

What does a deteriorating or missing chimney crown typically cause?

Accepted Answer

Water intrusion into the chimney structure and surrounding masonry

Answer

Increased draft velocity leading to over-firing

Answer

Backdrafting due to negative pressure at the flue opening

Answer

Creosote buildup on the interior flue tiles

Question 5

Per InterNACHI inspection standards, what minimum clearance to combustible materials is required for a factory-built (zero-clearance) fireplace?

Accepted Answer

Must follow the clearances listed by the manufacturer's installation instructions

Answer

Minimum 2 inches to all combustible framing members

Answer

Same as masonry fireplaces — 2 inches to all sides

Answer

No clearance required because the firebox is pre-insulated

Question 6

When inspecting the flashing at a chimney base, which condition represents a deficiency requiring reporting?

Accepted Answer

Caulk-only installation with no metal counter-flashing embedded in mortar

Answer

Step flashing that overlaps the counter-flashing by 2 inches

Answer

Aluminum step flashing installed on an asphalt shingle roof

Answer

Base flashing extending 4 inches up the chimney face

Question 7

Third-degree creosote in a chimney flue is classified as:

Accepted Answer

Hardened, glazed tar that is highly concentrated and difficult to remove

Answer

Light sooty deposits that can be brushed away easily

Answer

Flaky or crunchy tar deposits removable with standard brushes

Answer

A gas-phase byproduct requiring ventilation only