Blog

Higher energy bills and unexplained drafts can be a cause for concern when you don’t know the source. Add probable damage to that equation and you have a potential energy crisis on your hands. What could be causing these issues? We’re going to discuss one possibility today: an issue with your chimney flue seal. Here’s […] Read more

Crumbling chimney masonry is a common problem, and repairs are urgently needed. Anyone who needs to ask why is the base of the chimney crumbling, however, may be particularly alarmed. When the chimney base is crumbling, it is often evidence of foundation problems. Read on to learn more details on this and other chimney masonry […] Read more

Picking sides is human nature. Whether you’re rooting for your favorite team in the Super Bowl, choosing between two options for dinner, or the recent Taylor Swift album, everyone has an opinion about the latest trends. Today, we’ll present both sides of the age-old fireplace debate: what’s better, gas or wood? Which team are you […] Read more

Fireplaces may be pure pleasure on wintry days, but a chimney leak can dampen the positive vibes. To help avoid unnecessary woes, good questions to find answers to are what is chimney flashing and why is it important? A chimney leak is a common reason why chimney repair is needed, and a chimney flashing issue […] Read more

Have you noticed any problems with the brick-and-mortar that makes up your chimney? Perhaps some staining is evident along the side of your masonry? Or maybe there are obvious cracks and gaps? Perhaps you’re even missing a few bricks. Do these problems mean you need to completely rebuild your chimney? Here are the things you […] Read more

Chimney cleaning companies often talk about the right time to schedule a yearly cleaning and inspection. Typically, the suggestion we recommend is to have your chimney looked at in the early fall. This proactive step will help you to get ahead of any unforeseen issues before you go to use your fireplace for the first […] Read more

Deck the halls with boughs of holly…you know the rest. Decorating for the holidays can be fun, especially when you get the entire family involved. Turning your living spaces into a winter wonderland worthy of a full-page spread in your favorite magazine is a truly magical experience. While the previously mentioned carol is known by […] Read more

With fuel prices in what seems like a constant flux, is there anything a homeowner can do to reduce energy consumption? The answer might be simpler than you think. Basic ways to reduce energy consumption Before the weather turns excessively cold, there are several relatively inexpensive things you can do to save on your monthly […] Read more

With colder weather making its way across our region, many homeowners are anxious to start using their fireplaces. However, there are a few things you need to do to properly prepare your fireplace for winter. These are tips we share with all of our Dubuque Fireplace and Patio customers, and ones that will ensure your […] Read more

If you’re a novice fireplace user, you may think that any old wood will do when you want to build a cozy fire. Or, maybe you think you can throw any flammable object into the fireplace to get things started. However, it’s crucial that you know the right wood to use in your fireplace for […] Read more