I own an old house (approx. 100 years old). Each winter, I have a problem with what looks like creosote running down the outside of the chimney and staining the walls and ceiling. The house is unoccupied through the winter and the thermostat is kept around 60.
The house is now heated by natural gas, steam, but previously with coal (I think). The chimney runs through the center of the house and I can see the creosote (?) running down the outside of the chimney in the attic.
Any suggestions for a fix or workaround? I am currently considering abandoning the chimney altogether and using a power vent through the side of the house.
Thanks.