Chimney Fire?

[Rickenbacker]

Hi Folks,

I'm wondering if I should be about some strange discoloration on my chimney. Today I noticed black discoloration toward the bottom of the exterior part of the chimney. I've seen a bit of discoloration from time to time near the cap, but have never noticed this before. Looks ominous. Might this have been a chimney fire?

If it's helpful, I have a Scan 60 stove and I burn very dry (kiln dried) wood. I have the chimney cleaned every year whether it needs it or not.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Rickenbacker]

Here's another angle...

 

[EbS-P]

Looks dirty. No black flakes laying around? Unless you know you got it really hot or heard new/different sounds I’m not sure you have evidence of a chimney fire.

 

[Ctwoodtick]

I’m not a pro, but I don’t think that discoloration exclusively points to a chimney fire. I’m guessing the fire got Smokey and the wind blew in a certain direction, etc.