How do you create a functional chimney for fireplaces?

Creating a functional chimney for fireplaces in Valheim is essential for maintaining a safe and efficient base. Fireplaces, such as the Campfire or Hearth, produce smoke that can quickly fill an enclosed space, causing damage to your character and making the area unusable. A chimney allows smoke to escape, ensuring your indoor fires remain functional and safe.\n\nTo build a functional chimney, you need to understand the game''s smoke mechanics. Smoke rises vertically and spreads horizontally if it hits an obstruction. If smoke cannot escape, it will accumulate and cause damage. Therefore, your chimney must provide a clear vertical path for smoke to exit the structure. This requires careful planning and the right materials.\n\nStart by placing your fireplace (Campfire, Hearth, or Bonfire) in the desired location. Ensure the area above the fireplace is clear of obstructions. Use wooden beams or stone blocks to create a vertical shaft above the fireplace. The chimney should be at least two blocks wide to allow smoke to rise freely. If the chimney is too narrow, smoke may get trapped and cause issues.\n\nFor a basic wooden chimney, use Core Wood beams or regular Wood beams to create a vertical structure. Place the beams in a square or rectangular pattern, leaving the center open for smoke to escape. You can also use Stone blocks for a more durable and aesthetically pleasing chimney. Stone chimneys are particularly useful in biomes like the Mountains, where wooden structures are more vulnerable to damage.\n\nOnce the chimney structure is in place, you need to cap it with a roof to prevent rain from extinguishing the fire. Use angled roof pieces, such as thatched roofs or stone slabs, to cover the top of the chimney. Ensure the roof does not block the smoke''s path. Leave a small gap or use a vent-like design to allow smoke to escape while keeping rain out.\n\nA common challenge is smoke leaking into the room despite having a chimney. This usually happens if the chimney is not tall enough or if there are obstructions. To fix this, extend the chimney higher or remove any blocks that might be blocking the smoke''s path. Additionally, ensure the chimney is directly above the fireplace, as smoke will not travel diagonally.\n\nFor advanced designs, consider integrating the chimney into your building''s architecture. For example, you can build a stone chimney that runs along the exterior wall of your house, blending functionality with aesthetics. This approach is particularly effective in the Meadows or Black Forest biomes, where stone is readily available.\n\nFinally, always test your chimney by lighting the fireplace and observing the smoke''s behavior. If smoke escapes cleanly, your chimney is functional. If not, make adjustments as needed. Remember that fires require fuel, so keep a supply of Wood or Coal nearby to maintain your fireplace.\n\nPractical tips: Use the Hoe to level the ground before building to ensure a stable foundation. In snowy biomes like the Mountains, clear snow from the chimney''s base to prevent blockages. For multi-story buildings, consider adding multiple chimneys to distribute smoke efficiently. With these steps, you can create a functional and stylish chimney for any Valheim base.