kaminas

Kaminas, in Lithuanian architecture, refers to a chimney or flue—a vertical passage that conducts smoke and combustion gases from a fireplace, stove, boiler, or furnace to the outside atmosphere. It is typically a masonry or metal assembly that extends from inside the building to above the roofline to ensure proper draft and dispersal of exhaust.

Construction and components: A kaminas usually includes a fire chamber, a throat, a flue liner, a chase, a chimney cap, and sometimes a damper. The lining protects nearby materials from heat and corrosion; common materials are clay liners, brick, concrete, or stainless steel. Modern systems may use double- or triple-wall insulated metal chimneys to improve draft and reduce heat loss.

Types and designs: Masonry chimneys are brick or stone and require proper clearances and secure attachment to the fireplace. Prefabricated metal chimneys are used with stoves and some fireplaces; they require appropriate clearances and sealed joints. Caps or crowns protect the top from water and animals, while spark arrestors prevent embers from escaping.

Safety and maintenance: Regular inspection is recommended to remove creosote, check for cracks, and ensure joints are sealed. Improper venting can cause backdraft, carbon monoxide hazards, or chimney fires. Building codes govern sizing, clearance, and venting, and installation should be done by qualified professionals.

History and terminology: The word kaminas is borrowed into Lithuanian from Germanic roots and is cognate with related terms in many languages. It remains a common element of heating systems in Lithuania and other regions that use the term.