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A Foolproof Way to Build a Successful Fire Every Time

Posted by Chris Baird · December 13, 2022

Building a crackling fireplace fire can be a challenging task for even the most experienced firestarters. Many homeowners get discouraged after several failed attempts and simply consider their fireplace a decorative fixture in the home. But building a successful fire in your fireplace is possible for even the most novice firestarters. You just need to follow a few key steps and you can create a successful, crackling fire everytime.

Wood Burning Inserts – More Efficient & More Environmentally-Friendly

Posted by Leon Joseph · November 14, 2022

There may be no simpler pleasure during the cold, winter months than relaxing next to a warm, crackling fire in your fireplace. But with increased awareness of our carbon footprint, you may be concerned about the environmental impact of the wood you are burning this winter. Thankfully, eco-friendly alternatives to traditional open fireplaces are available to reduce emissions and increase efficiency.

Man holding nose due to smell coming from fireplace

Why does my house smell smokey?

Posted by Chris Baird · May 13, 2022

In the spring and summer months we see an influx of calls from people complaining that an odor is coming from their inactive fireplaces. Their living rooms are filled with a musty, smokey smell even though they haven’t used their fireplace in months. While most people assume they just need a thorough chimney & fireplace cleaning, the more likely culprit of this smell is a down draft of air coming into the home through the chimney.

How Fireplace Inserts Work

Posted by Chris Baird · May 13, 2022

A fireplace insert is essentially a steel box set inside another steel box that is inserted into a masonry fireplace. Fireplace inserts greatly enhance the efficiency and safety of masonry fireplaces. Traditional fireplaces are not inherently efficient. The efficiency rating of a standard masonry fireplace is between 5-10%. It’s even possible for a fireplace to pull more heat out of your home than it provides when a fire is burning.

What Is a Chimney Chase Cover and Why Do I Need One?

Posted by Chris Baird · May 13, 2022

A chimney chase cover – or “chase pans” – are rectangular metal caps that fit atop the chimney chase. As a distinct feature of factory-built chimneys, chase covers are most commonly found on homes that were built after 1980. They are most commonly made out of galvanized steel. Unfortunately, galvanized steel chase covers don’t last forever. They have a rated life of 25 years.