Blog

When a traditional masonry fireplace is not in use, it can increase heating and cooling costs throughout the year. Unless the chimney is properly sealed off, indoor and outdoor air will freely flow back and forth, helping to drain a homeowner’s wallet through higher utility costs. Weatherproofing your fireplace is a beneficial way to cut […] Read more

Creosote is combustion material from wood fires that is found in chimneys in three forms, and glazed creosote is the most difficult type to remove from a chimney liner. Tar and soot are also combustion byproducts, and they are mixed in with the creosote. Whether glazed creosote or another form is in your chimney, it […] Read more

While collecting and drying out firewood for your cozy fireplace this winter or planning parties around your linear gas fireplace, don’t forget that the health of your chimney is an important safety issue. There’s a lot involved with keeping up with all the demands of a household, season after season. If anything is overlooked, don’t […] Read more

It is no secret that the interior of a chimney can be a dirty, dusty and smelly mess after the winter heating season. And whether you have a wood-burning or gas fireplace or heating stove, soot will deposit in the chimney and/or stove pipe. While the chimney is designed to expel toxic fumes and contaminates like creosote and soot, some of […] Read more

What Aesop said about frugality still holds true: “It is thrifty to prepare today for the wants of tomorrow.” Such a wise attitude may lead you to consider buying a used fireplace or stove. Since these are solid fuel appliances, it’s essential to find out whether it’s safe to go with a used heating system. […] Read more

Modern wood stoves are highly efficient and will help you cut heating costs in winter. You can enjoy the investment you made in a wood stove much longer if you give the appliance needed care and attention. It’s the same as with other household appliances. The better you maintain it, the better it will serve you. […] Read more

If you have a fireplace or wood stove at home, chimney cleaning is crucial to eliminate soot, creosote, and debris that buildup over time. But a chimney sweep does much more than ensure that the flue is clean, working correctly and safe from fire accidents. They also inspect the chimney and its internal components, helping […] Read more

The only thing some folks miss about winter months is the ambiance created by a fireplace. Minus the crackling fire and the pleasant aroma of wood, everyone knows a fireplace doesn’t have the same charm. With a fresh fireplace summer makeover, however, you can enjoy your home’s most stunning architectural feature year-around. There are many […] Read more

A chimney is vulnerable to moisture, whether or not the heating appliance it’s connected to is in operation. If you’re going to retire your chimney, air flow is needed, along with ongoing efforts to protect it from moisture intrusion. Annual chimney inspections are recommended even for a retired chimney because certified chimney sweeps have the […] Read more

Available fireplaces for your home aren’t just masonry, gas-fueled, or wood-burning appliances anymore. Electric fireplaces have claimed a spot among the efficient heating appliances that provide the beloved ambiance of a fire. Advancements in technology have had an impact on heating appliances across the board, and that includes electric fireplaces. Below are answers to questions […] Read more