Fireplaces

A cozy fire should fill your home with warmth—not unpleasant odors. Yet even well-maintained fireplaces can produce smells that range from faintly woody to sharply chemical. Understanding what’s normal and what’s a warning sign helps you enjoy your fireplace safely...

Few things are more frustrating than lighting a fire—only to have smoke pour into your living room instead of rising neatly up the chimney. If your fireplace isn’t drafting properly, it’s usually because air can’t move as it should through...

Your fireplace and chimney are more than just a cozy centerpiece—they’re part of a system designed to safely manage heat, smoke, and gases. Three essential components keep that system working: the chimney cap, liner, and damper. Together, they protect your home from...

Building or installing a fireplace isn’t just about design or comfort—it’s about meeting safety and code requirements that protect your home and ensure your system passes inspection. Whether you’re upgrading an old wood stove, adding a gas insert, or mounting an...

Keeping your fireplace in top condition isn’t just about looks—it’s about safety, efficiency, and long-term reliability. Whether you use wood, gas, electric, or ethanol, a simple seasonal maintenance routine keeps your unit burning bright and worry-free all year round. Table of...

Table of Contents Understanding Fireplace Glass Fogging What Causes Soot Buildup Troubleshooting Common Glass Problems How to Clean Fireplace Glass Safely Preventing Future Buildup When to Replace or Service Glass Key Takeaways Related Reading Understanding Fireplace Glass Fogging Fireplace glass...

Table of Contents Why Proper Ash Disposal Matters Understanding Fireplace Ash Safe Tools and Equipment How to Remove and Cool Ash Why Regular Vacuums Are Dangerous Proper Storage and Disposal Methods Eco-Friendly Ways to Reuse Wood Ash Best Practices for...

Table of Contents Why Regular Cleaning Matters Preparation and Safety First Removing Ash Safely Cleaning Fireplace Interiors Cleaning Fireplace Glass Cleaning the Surround and Hearth Chimney and Vent Cleaning Cleaning Frequency by Fireplace Type Tools & Products That Make Cleaning...

Fireplaces vary widely in efficiency and cost per hour of use depending on their fuel source. Electric, gas, and wood fireplaces all provide comfort and ambiance, but their long-term running costs differ dramatically once you factor in energy rates, heat...