How do I build a chimney to prevent smoke buildup in my house?

Building a chimney in Valheim is essential for preventing smoke buildup in your house, which can cause health damage and make your home uncomfortable. Smoke is generated by fire sources like campfires, hearths, and kilns, and it rises upward. If the smoke has no way to escape, it will fill your home, making it difficult to breathe and reducing visibility. To avoid this, you need to create a proper ventilation system using a chimney.\n\nTo build a chimney, start by placing your fire source (campfire or hearth) in the center of your house. Ensure the fire is on a stone or raised platform to prevent it from spreading to wooden structures. Next, create a vertical shaft above the fire using walls and roofing pieces. The chimney should be at least two tiles high to allow smoke to rise and disperse properly. Use angled roof pieces or a combination of walls and beams to create an open top for the smoke to escape.\n\nOne common mistake is enclosing the chimney too tightly, which traps smoke inside. To avoid this, leave the top of the chimney open or use angled roof pieces to create a vent. If you want to protect the chimney from rain, you can use a small roof piece at the top, but ensure there is enough space for smoke to escape. For example, placing a 26-degree roof piece at the top with a small gap on the sides works well.\n\nIn biomes like the Meadows or Black Forest, where wood is abundant, you can use wooden beams and walls to construct your chimney. However, in the Swamp or Mountains, where weather conditions are harsher, consider using stone walls for durability. Stone chimneys are also more resistant to fire and provide better insulation. To craft stone walls, you will need to unlock the Stonecutter, which requires Iron and a Workbench.\n\nIf you''re building a larger base with multiple fire sources, such as forges or kilns, you may need multiple chimneys or a more complex ventilation system. For example, you can connect multiple fire sources to a single large chimney using horizontal smoke channels made of beams or walls. This requires careful planning to ensure smoke flows smoothly and doesn''t get trapped.\n\nA practical tip for new players is to test your chimney design before fully enclosing your house. Place your fire source and observe how the smoke behaves. If smoke escapes properly, you can proceed with building the rest of your structure. For experienced players, consider adding decorative elements like banners or torches to your chimney to make it blend seamlessly with your base design.\n\nFinally, always ensure your chimney is tall enough to clear nearby structures or trees. Smoke can get trapped if the chimney is too short or obstructed. By following these steps and paying attention to smoke mechanics, you can create a functional and aesthetically pleasing chimney that keeps your home smoke-free and comfortable.