How do I build a chimney to properly vent smoke from my fire?

Building a chimney in Valheim is essential for venting smoke from your fire, ensuring your base remains safe and functional. Smoke buildup can cause damage to your character and structures, so proper ventilation is critical. To create an effective chimney, you need to understand the game''s smoke mechanics and how to design a structure that allows smoke to escape naturally.\n\nSmoke in Valheim rises upward and spreads outward in a cone shape. If smoke is trapped inside a structure, it will accumulate and eventually cause damage to your character or even destroy nearby wooden objects. To prevent this, you need to create a vertical path for the smoke to escape. This is where a chimney comes into play. A chimney is essentially a vertical shaft that directs smoke out of your building.\n\nTo build a chimney, start by placing a campfire or hearth in your desired location. Ensure the fire is placed on a flat surface, such as stone or dirt, as it cannot be placed on wooden floors. Next, construct walls around the fire to create an enclosed space. Use wooden or stone walls, depending on your available resources. Leave the top open to allow smoke to escape. For taller structures, you may need to stack walls vertically to create a chimney shaft.\n\nOne common mistake is building a chimney that is too short, which can cause smoke to linger inside the structure. To avoid this, make sure your chimney extends at least two to three wall sections above the fire. This ensures the smoke has enough space to rise and dissipate. Additionally, avoid placing roofs or other obstructions directly above the chimney opening, as this can trap smoke.\n\nIf you''re building in a biome with harsh weather, such as the Mountains or Plains, consider using stone walls for your chimney. Stone is more durable and resistant to environmental damage compared to wood. You can also add a roof over the chimney opening to prevent rain from extinguishing your fire, but make sure to leave enough space for smoke to escape. A slanted roof or a small overhang can work well for this purpose.\n\nFor players in the early game, crafting a basic chimney with wooden walls is sufficient. However, as you progress and unlock stone crafting, upgrading to a stone chimney is recommended for durability and aesthetics. To craft stone walls, you''ll need a stonecutter, which requires iron and wood. Place the stonecutter near your building site and use it to craft stone blocks for your chimney.\n\nA practical example of a chimney design involves placing a hearth in the center of a room and surrounding it with stone walls. Stack the walls vertically to create a chimney shaft, leaving the top open. You can also add decorative elements, such as wooden beams or iron grates, to enhance the appearance of your chimney. This design not only vents smoke effectively but also adds a touch of Viking authenticity to your base.\n\nIn summary, building a chimney in Valheim requires careful planning and attention to smoke mechanics. Start by placing your fire on a flat surface, enclose it with walls, and create a vertical shaft for smoke to escape. Use stone for durability in harsh biomes, and ensure the chimney is tall enough to prevent smoke buildup. With these tips, you can create a functional and visually appealing chimney that keeps your base safe and smoke-free.