The heart of a New England home often centers around a crackling fire, its warmth chasing away the winter chill with a comforting glow. But if your traditional gas or wood fireplace sends more heat up the chimney than into your living room, or your newer home lacks the ambiance of a hearth, it’s time to consider which ignites your style. There are two primary options to fuel your ambiance: gas and wood. Which ignites your style? 

Wood-Burning Fireplaces

For traditionalists, the awe of a wood-burning fireplace is undeniable. The gentle scent of oak firewood drifting through the air, the soft crackle of logs, and the mesmerizing dancing flames offer an unbeatable ambiance. However, this rustic charm comes with its share of responsibilities:

• Maintenance: Chopping and storing firewood, cleaning ashes, and ensuring proper chimney ventilation demand attention.
• Regulations: Connecticut has strict rules on wood-burning appliances, requiring permits and inspections to ensure safety and air quality compliance.
• Efficiency: While wood can be a cost-effective heating source, open fireplaces lose significant heat up the chimney.

Gas Fireplaces

Modern gas fireplaces offer flip-of-a-switch convenience, providing instant warmth and realistic flames without frequent cleaning. But like any convenience, there are trade-offs:

• Fuel Cost: Natural gas or propane can be more expensive than firewood, but pipelines are commonly available in Glastonbury, Willington, and central CT townships.
• Authenticity: While gas logs are more realistic than ever before, they may not be sufficient to appeal to a traditionalist.
• Venting Options: An open hearth requires a chimney to expel contaminants; direct vent fireplaces require an external vent; ventless models offer installation flexibility but require specific safety considerations due to combustion byproducts. 

Direct Vent Fireplaces

Direct vent fireplaces provide the ambiance of a wood or gas fireplace without heat loss or significant pollution. 

• High Efficiency: A direct-vent fireplace is an insert with a sealed combustion system that vents directly outside, minimizing heat loss and pollution while maximizing efficiency.
• Realistic Flames: Advanced gas log technology creates flames that resemble a realistic wood fire experience. Your secret is safe with us!
• Installation Flexibility: Unlike traditional wood fireplaces, direct vent models can be installed in interior walls in virtually any room in the home – kitchen, den, bedrooms, and even bathrooms, in some cases.

Ventless or Vent Free Fireplaces

Ventless fireplaces offer the ultimate convenience, requiring no chimney or external venting. However, due to safety concerns about indoor air quality and incomplete combustion, these models require:

• Strict Safety Measures: Regular maintenance and proper ventilation are crucial to ensure safe operation.
• Local Regulations: Some municipalities in Connecticut restrict or even ban ventless fireplaces due to safety concerns.
• Limited Heat Output: These fireplaces are mainly for ambiance and supplemental heat. Ventless models are not recommended for primary heating.

Wood or Gas – Which Ignites Your Style

Ultimately, deciding between a gas or wood fireplace depends on personal preference and priorities. So, you will want to consider factors like:

Desired Ambiance

Do you crave the authentic crackle of wood or prefer the convenience of gas?

Maintenance Requirements 

Both wood and gas fireplaces require annual inspections and professional cleaning by a professional chimney sweep. However, wood fireplaces require frequent firebox cleaning and ash removal between professional visits. On the other hand, gas fireplaces require light cleaning of dust and wiping the glass doors of gas residue. Are you comfortable with regular wood-burning chores or prefer a low-maintenance option?

Budget

Factor in fuel costs, installation expenses, and potential permit fees. If you have a limited budget, consider choosing a heating appliance that doesn’t require building a chimney.

Local Regulations

Whichever appliance you choose, ensure it complies with federal, state, and local fire and building codes.

Wood and Gas Fireplaces for Sale Near Me

Northeastern Chimney LLC is your premier CSIA-certified gas and wood fireplaces, inserts, and stoves provider, including installations, upgrades, and maintenance in Cheshire, East Hampton, Glastonbury, and surrounding central Connecticut townships. Call (860) 233-5770 or contact us online at to consult with a Certified Chimney Sweep®.

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A wood-burning chimney gets dirty faster than any other chimney you might have. For you to keep your current unit clean and in top shape, you need to clean it regularly. You can do the cleaning by yourself or hire a chimney cleaning services provider.

How do you do it? Here is a guide on how to do it:

Clean the insides of the unit

Wear gloves to protect yourself. You can collect the ashes in an ash pan and place them in a metal bucket. Alternatively, you can use a shovel and a metal bucket.

Carefully gather the ashes in the shovel and gently slide them into the bucket. You should note that if you’re not careful, the ash can get into the air and cause a major mess, so move slowly. 

 Be mindful that ashes may still contain tiny embers. To be safe, allow them to cool outdoors for a few days before discarding.

It is important to note that you can do this frequently during the heating season. Even a wood-burning stove produces less ash than multi-fuel smokeless stoves.

When utilizing smokeless fuel, remove the ashes several times per day, whereas when burning wood, you can take as little as once per week. You will need a large ash pan to easily clean and remove the ashes.

Wipe the glass of your chimney.

To keep the best view of the flames, clean the glass of your wood-burning stove. To do so, apply stove glass cleaner, wait five minutes, and then remove with a moist rag. 

 Choosing the right kind of glass cleaner is important because printed glass requires a different cleaning product than plain door glass.

If the door glass is damaged, you should consider fixing it before you clean it.

Does the glass appear sooty? Be cautious that this may suggest that your chimney isn’t burning efficiently. This will happen when you don’t take good care of your chimney. It could also result from using wood with excessive moisture content (over 20%).

At the same time, it could result from a breeze or lighting the fire wrongly. Before you rush to conclusions, find out the cause of the problem and fix it.

The cool thing is that a soot-covered glass is easy to clean. You can remove soot with wood ashes in the stove, but never use coal ash since it scratches the glass.

Simply dampen a cloth and immerse it in the ashes. Rub in a circular motion; the soot should fall off easily.

Clean the outside of the chimney.

The simplest way to clean the exterior of the stove is to use a vacuum cleaner with a gentle brush attachment. As an alternative, use a dry cloth. Don’t use a damp cloth that will rust the stove. 

 When washing the exterior, be gentle. You don’t have to polish your wood-burning stove. You can remove any light dust with a lint-free cloth.

Has the outside of the stove already rusted? To remove rust patches from a wood burner, cut a pad of medium-grade steel wool and, while wearing protective gloves, work gently until the rust is gone.

Sweep up the debris with a brush and dustpan, then use a stove or clean shoe brush to remove any dirt from the surface before painting.

Before painting, cover the glass doors and metal handles with newspaper and tape. If you are painting the entire appliance, protect the walls and hearth.

To ensure proper ventilation, open all doors and windows before applying the paint. Hold the can 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm) away from the surface and spray the stove.

You could choose stove and BBQ paint if you want to refinish a black wood stove. The finish is heat-resistant, quick-drying, and durable. It also prevents rusting and can withstand temperatures up to 1200ºF (648ºC). Let it dry for at least an hour before heating.

Other ways to take care of your wood-burning stove

Besides cleaning the unit, you can do plenty of other things to ensure that your unit is always in top working condition. These things include:

Inspect the rope seal

Over time, the rope seal surrounding the door will flatten and lose shape, reducing the stove’s effectiveness and enabling pollutants to escape. 

 Start a small fire and close the doors and air intakes. You should move a lit candle around the door; if the flame is attracted toward it, it indicates a poor seal, and you should replace the rope.

To check the unit’s health:

1. Clean the firebox and empty the ash pan.
2. Shine a torch inside to ensure that the firebricks are not shattered.
3. Leave the air inlets open and the door ajar to allow air to circulate through the chimney, keeping it dry.

Get rid of soot and tar marks.

If soot and tar deposits have migrated through the plaster from the chimney breast, remove the filth and apply a coat of stain block. If required, add another layer two hours after the first has dried. Once dried, you can repaint the surface with any sort of paint you have.

Apply slate oil to the health.

Slate oil repels debris and ash while still enabling the slate to breathe, thus it may minimize your cleaning time without hurting the stone. 

 Some stone care products should not be used at temperatures above 77ºF (25ºC), so check the instructions carefully. 

 Protect your rugs or carpet from splashes before applying the oil evenly with a brush or sponge. Let dry for two hours.

Parting shot

These are some of the things you should do to ensure that your wood-burning stove is always in top condition.

For peace of mind that your unit won’t surprise you with fire or other dangers, make it a habit to clean and inspect it at least once before the heating season kicks off. You can do the work yourself or hire chimney contractors Upper Marlboro to help you out.

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Despite their shortcomings, many homeowners are committed to using their fireplaces. Whether it’s their primary heating source or a supplement to their furnace, fireplaces are a must-have for many people.

However, like anything else, fireplaces wear down. If your fireplace has seen better days, you’re probably facing the crucial question of whether to repair or replace it. This blog post will help you decide which direction to go.

Understanding Your Current Fireplace

What kind of fireplace you have will be crucial in helping you decide to repair or replace it. Do you have a traditional wood-burning fireplace, a gas fireplace, or an electric one?

Upgrading Your Wood-Burning Fireplace

You can’t beat the authenticity of a traditional wood-burning fireplace. No other heating system can match the smell, sound, or atmosphere you get from a wood-burning fireplace. But if your system needs some TLC, here are a few things you can do.

Efficiency Inserts

Maybe your fireplace is in decent shape, but you’re frustrated by the heat loss. Installing efficiency inserts can mitigate this and possibly lower your energy bills. Inserts fit into your existing fireplace and are a cost-effective way to help retain heat.

Improve Safety

Consider upgrades like new fireplace doors or a better chimney liner to make it safer.

Aesthetic Enhancement

Sometimes, a simple cosmetic upgrade is all you need. Many homeowners add new tiles or a mantle to breathe new life into the fireplace and give the room a makeover.

Upgrading a Gas Fireplace

Unfortunately, gas fireplaces aren’t as upgradeable as other heating systems, and most experts recommend replacing them, especially if they’re over 15 years old. However, there are cosmetic upgrades you can do, like painting brass and adding new media/rocks or logs.

Replacing an old gas fireplace gives you more advanced features like smart home integration and energy efficiency.

Upgrading an Electric Fireplace

There are numerous ways to upgrade an electric fireplace. For example, you can add a more realistic flame or swap the fireplace for a new model with ‘smart’ features like phone controls.

When to Consider Replacement

In most cases, you’re better off replacing your fireplace. Whether it’s damage or age, replacement can be more cost-effective, especially if you need more than a cosmetic upgrade. Here’s what to consider.

Structural Issues

If your current fireplace has structural issues, like cracks, a damaged flue liner, or crumbling bricks, replacement is the best option for safety.

Changing Fuel Types

As mentioned, nothing beats a wood-burning fireplace when it comes to aesthetics, but practically everything beats them when it comes to energy efficiency. There’s only so much you can do with a wood-burning fireplace to make it more efficient, so if you’re at the end of your rope and want to save more on energy bills, consider switching to gas or electric.

In most cases, changing fuel type requires a total replacement.

Major Renovations If you’re considering a major home renovation in the near future, it might be the perfect time to replace your fireplace to increase efficiency and better match your home’s interior.

Consult a Professional

Consulting a professional is the best way to guide you between upgrading or replacing a fireplace. Pros will offer valuable insights and ideas you might not have considered. They can also advise you on the best options for your budget and heating needs so you don’t get an undersized or too expensive system.

Call Northeastern Chimney LLC

Northeastern Chimney LLC is the premier chimney sweep in Connecticut. Our technicians are certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America and active in the National Chimney Sweep Guild.

Whether you need a fireplace upgrade, replacement, chimney cleaning, repairs, rebuilds, or anything else, you can count on us! Book your appointment today at 860-233-5770.

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Fireplace inserts have become quite popular over the years. Homeowners are becoming more interested as their homes are aging. They are realizing that repairs will be needed on their masonry fireplace. Homeowners are finding that reconstruction repairs can be costly. A fireplace insert may be a solution.

You still want to use your fireplace. You love the ambiance that it sends off. The warmth and glow are something that you and your family enjoy. You are concerned that heat is escaping. Masonry is starting to flake, and fuel costs are considerably higher than it was. So, what are your options?  A fireplace insert may be the answer you are looking for.

What Is a Fireplace Insert?

A fireplace insert is designed to increase the efficiency of the fireplace. With that said, they are very beneficial and sought after. A fireplace insert is a firebox surrounded by cast iron or steel. In the front is tempered and insulated glass. The glass doors are meant to be a closed combustion system. A fireplace insert can last for at least 20 to 30 years. 

Benefits Of a Fireplace Insert

Environmental Impact

Fireplace inserts that are EPA-certified can reduce wood burning emissions to almost zero. This makes your wood-burning much cleaner and safer.

Increased Efficiency

A fireplace insert is much more efficient than your older version of fireplaces. Open hearth fireplaces are known for escaping heat. You are losing heat as it goes from your fireplace up the chimney. The sealed, air-tight door keeps the fire burning slower so that the heat isn’t wasted. Experts state that the efficiency of a fireplace insert can be as much as 80%. 

Financial satisfaction

You may save on your heating bill by inserting a much more efficient fireplace insert. You will burn less gas, oil, and/or electricity. When the fire is out, the doors are closed, and the cold air and drafts stay out of the house. Also, heated air stays in the home. 

Avoid costly repairs

As your chimney and fireplace age, you will start to notice that it needs repairs. Homeowners are choosing to go for a more affordable route. Installing a fireplace insert instead of reconstructing the entire fireplace and chimney.

Call Northeastern Chimney LLC at 860-233-5770 or contact us online. We would be happy to meet with you and give you all the details of the installation as well as the upkeep that you need to know. 

Northeastern Chimney, Inc., established in 1984, is a fully licensed and insured chimney repair company. We provide chimney sweeping & video inspection, chimney relining, masonry repair and restoration, waterproofing, crown and flashing repair. As well as pre-fab chimney installations, stainless steel/ bluestone chimney tops, chimney caps, flue screening, dryer vent cleaning, and more.

You can learn about chimney safety and how to choose a sweep on our website and blog. If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to call us anytime from 8 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday.

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During the chilly Hartford winters, few things are more soothing than curling up with a good book, a cup of hot chocolate (with those cute mini marshmallows), and the fresh scent of a crackling wood-burning fire. So, whether you want to replace an old, outdated, and inefficient fireplace or install a new heating appliance in a home without a chimney, this handy guide will illuminate the way to finding your ideal hearth.

Types of Fireplaces

With so many fireplaces to choose from, you may feel like being stuck in a spinning snow globe. To simplify it, we break it into four distinct categories, each with advantages and disadvantages.

Wood-burning

This classic option delivers a traditional wood-burning experience and subtle warmth. However, it requires effort, such as buying and storing firewood and cleaning ashes. I enjoy visiting local farms to purchase a seasoned mix of hardwoods. There are several farms near West Hartford, and some of them even deliver. If wood-burning fireplaces differ from your preference, a gas or pellet appliance may be a better option.

Gas 

Nothing is more convenient than flicking a switch with instant warmth filling the room. There is no mess, no fuss, just flickering flames. Plus, it provides continuous heat, just like a furnace. However, gas hookups and installation costs can be higher, and the natural scent of wood might be missed. Propane is also an option for those without a natural gas line.

Pellet

A pellet fireplace is an eco-friendly alternative to wood. It burns pellets of compressed sawdust instead of wood logs, which produces less smoke, creosote, and ash. Although they require refilling hoppers, a bag of pellets can burn for hours. Plus, their higher efficiency and lower emissions make them a popular choice among Connecticut homeowners who want the classic ambiance of a wood fire without the upkeep.

Electric

For homes without chimneys, electric fireplaces offer a safe and easy solution. While they lack the charm of an authentic flame experience, they provide realistic visuals and supplemental heat, making them ideal for smaller spaces or occasional use.

Finding the Perfect Placement for Your Ideal Hearth

Living Room

Installing your fireplace in the living room creates a natural gathering spot. Consider traffic flow and furniture arrangement to ensure everyone enjoys the warmth.

Bedroom

Imagine falling asleep to the natural sounds of a crackling fire. Installing a fireplace insert in the bedroom offers a romantic ambiance and supplemental heat but ensures there is proper ventilation and addresses fire safety measures. 

Basement/Den

Transform your basement or den into a warm, cozy retreat. Basements often have existing venting, making them ideal for wood or gas fireplaces. Dens benefit from the added warmth and visual appeal.

Vented Vs. Ventless Fireplace Inserts

Vented Fireplace Inserts

Vented inserts provide optimal efficiency, air quality, and fuel versatility, making them ideal for primary heating or replacing aging fireplaces. They include a vent pipe that uses the existing chimney, so modifications aren’t necessary in most cases.

Ventless Fireplace Inserts

Ventless fireplace inserts are perfect for homes that lack a chimney. Unlike vented fireplaces, these models don’t require flues. Instead, they release exhaust directly into the room. As a result, they produce less heat than vented fireplaces. Additionally, ventless models have a sensor that automatically turns off the unit to avoid a loss of oxygen.

Fireplaces in Hartford & Central Connecticut

Northeastern Chimney LLC is your premier CSIA-certified provider of fireplaces and stoves, including installations, upgrades, and repairs in Bloomfield, Canton, West Simsbury, and surrounding central Connecticut townships. Call (860) 233-5770 or contact us online to consult with a Certified Chimney Sweep®.

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Industrial chimney maintenance is crucial to keeping your chimney safely and efficiently operating. By following our industrial chimney maintenance checklist below, you can prevent unsafe, costly problems like structural damage from happening. 

At Best Chimney Services, we’ve been servicing commercial chimneys since 1989. Our experienced chimney technicians are committed to offering you excellent and personalized services for all your chimney needs. Give us a call to start on your chimney checklist today! Now we’ll give you some tips about the routine tasks that your chimney needs. 

Visual Inspection

A visual inspection is the best way to begin routine maintenance for your commercial chimney stack. Start by looking around your chimney for any signs of physical damage, corrosion, or deterioration. These can appear as cracks, dents, missing bricks, rust, and vegetation or debris that have collected on or near the chimney. If you find any of these signs, you should book an appointment with us so that we can ensure they won’t lead to further problems. 

Regular Chimney Sweepings

It’s easy to forget that a chimney requires interior cleaning. However, we’ve placed it on our maintenance list because it’s very important that you schedule regular chimney sweepings with a professional chimney technician. When your chimney goes without regular cleanings, then creosote, soot, and other debris can build up inside the chimney, which may obstruct the flue and cause an operating malfunction.  How often you need a chimney sweep depends on a few factors, but we recommend booking one at least once a year.

Book Annual Chimney Inspections

The purpose of an commercial chimney inspection is to get a professional eye on the condition of your chimney stack. Our technicians will inspect your chimney with several things in mind to ensure that your chimney is in working order. An inspection can help identify problems like leaks, venting issues, debris build-up, and more. If our technicians find one of these problems, they’ll be able to walk you through the most appropriate steps to alleviate the issue before it worsens. 

Check for Leaks

As we mentioned before, leaks are an issue that our technicians look for during inspections, and they aren’t always external leaks either.  Improper venting can lead to boiler malfunctions creating internal leaking with excess condensation.   Leaks can lead to a variety of problems, like corrosion, structural damage, and performance problems which can lead boiler shutdowns. Some signs to look for when trying to spot a leak include: 

• White areas on the bricks
• Offset pipe connections running to chimney
• Moss
• Rust
• Discolored bricks
• Damp, musty smell

If you spot any of these signs, give us a call.

Book Your Inspection & Sweeping with Best Chimney Services

By following this general guideline, you’re helping reduce unsafe and expensive problems from occurring in the future. We strongly recommend that you follow this checklist so that you can stay up-to-date on your chimney’s condition throughout the year. We look forward to seeing you for your next commercial chimney inspection!

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Have you noticed that your fireplace smells recently? Well, it’s actually common to experience a smelly fireplace in both the summer and the winter. There are multiple reasons why your fireplace may smell. Fortunately, we can help you determine what the cause may be and how you can put a stop to the smell as soon as possible!

At Best Chimney Services, we’ve been servicing residential and commercial chimneys in the Boston area since 1989. Our chimney technicians are experienced and committed to excellent service so that your chimney remains efficient and safe. Whether you’re in need of a chimney inspection, chimney repairs, chimney installations, or another service, we are here for you! If you want the smell of your fireplace fixed as soon as possible, give us a call! In the meantime, learn more about why your fireplace may be smelling this winter and how to fix it below.   

Reasons for Winter Fireplace Smells

Winter Odors 

Something many homeowners don’t realize is that precipitation from the snow and rain can build up in your chimney all winter long and result in a smell. This happens when snow builds up and mixes with creosote, a flammable byproduct consisting of tar and wood combustion, in your chimney and creates an odor. In order to get rid of this winter chimney odor, you need to remove the creosote once a year by booking an annual chimney sweeping with a professional chimney company so they can remove it safely.

Downdrafts When a Fireplace is Not in Use

If you don’t use your fireplace, then it’s possible the smell is being caused by downdrafts. A downdraft is when the odors are going straight down the chimney and into your house, bringing soot and creosote into your home. There is an easy solution to this problem though! We recommend installing a tight-fitting chimney damper. This will help minimize drafts from entering your chimney and will make your home more energy-efficient. If you’re looking for help installing a chimney damper, book an appointment with us! 

Animal Issues

Another common reason why fireplaces begin to smell is because of a build-up of dead animals and animal droppings in your chimney. You can find out if this is the cause of your problem with a routine chimney inspection and sweeping that will clear out any debris. To avoid this problem in the future, and to preserve wildlife and protect your home, install a chimney cap! This will keep any animal or wildlife byproducts from entering your chimney.

How to Combat Winter Fireplace Smells

Annual Chimney Inspection

If you want to get ahead of the curve before these winter fireplace smells have a chance to occur, we highly recommend booking an annual chimney inspection. A chimney inspection will ensure that the key components of your chimney, such as the chimney damper and chimney cap, are in good working condition to avoid the problems we listed above. Booking a chimney inspection yearly is recommended for every homeowner who has a chimney.

Annual Chimney Sweeping

An annual chimney sweeping will remove flammable creosote and other debris, like animal byproducts, to prevent any issues from occurring. The largest risk at hand is the build-up of creosote because it can lead to dangers like a chimney fire. Chimney fire prevention is vital to keeping both your chimney and your home safe. A chimney sweep will make sure that creosote is removed and no longer an issue. 

How to Find the Right Chimney Company to Assist with Winter Fireplace Odors

Finding the right chimney company to assist with your winter fireplace odors is important. You need a chimney company that has CSIA-certified technicians to ensure that they’re following the best and safest practices when servicing your chimney. A CSIA certification is the national standard for all chimney companies to follow with the goal of protecting residents from house fires and other dangers. The chimney company you choose should have this certification so that you know your chimney and home are being taken care of.   

Contact Best Chimney Services for Your Chimney Needs

Are you looking for a chimney company that will prioritize your safety and chimney’s efficiency? At Best Chimney Services, we’re here to help with all of your chimney concerns. We urge you to give us a call today to start your chimney’s routine maintenance!

The post Why Your Fireplace May Smell Bad and How to Fix It appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

As we embark on a new year, the team at Best Chimney is excited to usher in 2024 with a fresh perspective on fireplace styles and designs.

We understand the importance of keeping your homes warm and making a stylish statement. This month, we’re delighted to highlight two of the hottest trends for 2024 fireplace aesthetics into one project that can redefine your space.

At Best Chimney, we’re committed to helping you stay warm in style. Let’s look at these trends and transform your fireplace into a warm, cozy, and modern part of your home.

Painting the Firebox Black: A Modern Twist

Say goodbye to smoke stains and hello to modern sophistication. The latest trend in chimney design involves painting the firebox black. Not only does it conceal any unsightly marks, but it also adds a sleek and contemporary touch to your fireplace. This is an effective yet easy way to go from drab to wow in a few short hours.  Embrace the elegance of a black firebox and elevate the ambiance of your living room.

Natural Stone:  Easy Refresh on a Budget with Ledger Panels

Revitalizing your fireplace has never been simpler. Ledger panels offer an easy and stylish way to refresh old brick, giving your fireplace a brand-new look. These panels come in various textures and colors ensuring you can choose the perfect aesthetic to complement your home’s style. Quick and easy to install makes this a great choice when you don’t want to commit to construction.  Want to add to your statement?  Extend the surround all the way to the ceiling for a bold new look.  Transform your fireplace effortlessly with the versatility of ledger panels.

Bonus! Sustainable Materials: Stylish and Eco-Friendly

Make a statement not only in style but also in sustainability. The use of eco-friendly and sustainable materials in chimney design is gaining traction. Explore the ledger panel library, or other environmentally conscious choices, while elevating your space and contributing to a greener planet.

Schedule your appointment now to have a conversation about improving your fireplace with Best Chimney.

The post Elevate Your Fireplace Style: New Trends Unveiled for 2024! appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

If you are like other homeowners, you actively use your chimney during winter. This means that the chimney lies idle in most of the additional months of the year.

As much as you aren’t using the chimney now, it’s bound to get dirty. Animals and birds might colonize the area, preventing smoke and air from passing through.

Chances are also that you haven’t cleaned your unit since the last heating season.

To be safe and have peace of mind that the fire will burn efficiently in your chimney, you need to prepare it for the winter season. How do you do it? Here is how to go about it:

Have the chimney cleaned by a chimney sweep

Hiring a professional chimney sweep is necessary to ensure that the inside of your chimney is completely swept and free of soot and debris. Doing this will ensure everything is done correctly and safely.

When hiring the chimney sweep, don’t hire the first one you come across; chances are you won’t hire the right one.

Instead, you should take your time and find a reputable one who knows what they are doing.

When many people hire contractors, they usually go to the search engines and key in their area. They then contact the first contractor appearing on the first page.

While nothing is wrong with this, you shouldn’t hire the first contractor. This is because appearing on the first page doesn’t mean they are good at their work.

The best thing to do is to interview a couple of those contractors and only hire the best ones.

When hiring, consider their experience with the type of chimney you have in your home. You also should consider the tools they have.

Their personality is also important. If you don’t want to keep hiring, you want to keep your contractor for as long as possible, right?

This calls for you to hire a contractor who has plenty of things in common with you. This way, you can keep your relationship for as long as possible.

Do your part of the cleaning.

Just because your chimney has been professionally cleaned doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do your part. You still have to maintain your end of the stick.

Some of the things you should do include:

• Clean the brickwork, stone, or tiles around your fireplace to remove soot and grime.
• Clean the glass on your wood burner to improve flame visibility.
• You also should sweep the inside of your stove or fireplace to remove old ash and grime.
• Dispose off ash as domestic rubbish or repurpose it in a compost heap or soil patch.
• Clean your fireplace accessories to ensure they are fresh and ready for use.

Fireplaces and stoves may get dusty quickly, so cleaning them regularly during winter will keep them looking good for years while ensuring a healthy fire.

Gather the right wood.

When preparing a chimney for winter, ensure you have sufficient wood, presuming you are permitted to burn wood in your area.

When deciding on the ideal type of wood for your fire, avoid burning damp, treated, polished, varnished, or oiled woods and waste woods like pallets, furniture, or fencing.

Instead, go for good-grade hardwood species, such as ash, oak, beech, or birch, that will burn the cleanest and longest, producing a bright flame. Also, avoid softwoods like pine, fir, and cypress, as they burn too quickly and emit more smoke.

If you’re cutting your firewood rather than purchasing pre-cut logs from a source, be sure the logs fit exactly into your stove or fireplace.

If you find your own firewood to dry, cut it into 25cm lengths, divide it into 5-15cm diameter pieces, and keep it under cover with sufficient airflow.

Drying time for ash is 12-18 months, whereas oak takes closer to three years. Before burning, use a moisture meter to ensure the logs are under 20% moisture.

Properly store the logs.

Whether you want to build a bespoke log store outside or are searching for wood burner ideas with built-in storage, being creative with your log storage ideas may help you stay organized while establishing an eye-catching focal point and design feature in a room.

Logs can be stored in a variety of ways, both within and outside the residence, including baskets, crates, and custom-constructed wall niches.

Having a larger log store outside and smaller, decorative storage facilities within the home alongside the fireplace strikes the ideal mix between appearance and functionality.

If this is the first time you are setting up the storage, work with experienced contractors who will provide you with the right guidance on how to do it.

Decorate the chimney

After you’ve swept your chimney, cleaned your fireplace, and gathered your logs, add some last ornamental and comforting finishing touches to create an even cozier atmosphere.

From mantel design ideas to soft blankets, cushions, and candles, these simple additions can assist in creating a soothing and pleasant atmosphere when sitting around the fire.

The fireplace or stove area is frequently the natural, leading focal point in a room, so when designing your warm room ideas, using this space to be creative with displays and ornaments will only make the area surrounding your fire more eye-catching and personal.

You can do the decorating yourself, but if the creative juices aren’t flowing, consider getting a professional to help you.

Parting shot

Preparing your chimney is vital for maintaining a safe and healthy fire in your house.

Booking an annual clean and inspection – or two – and cleaning your fireplace and its surrounding areas regularly will ensure that your stove and fireplace are in good working condition and you have an easy time cleaning them for winter.

If you have to hire chimney contractors Upper Marlboro, don’t hire just any contractor. Take your time to find experienced professionals who know what they are doing. This way you are sure that they will do a good job.

The post Things to Do to Get Your Chimney Ready for Winter first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

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Has your chimney sweep told you that you need to clean your chimney but aren’t sure why you should do it? Here are some of the top reasons you should:

You have peace of mind

There are plenty of dangers that come with a dirty chimney. One of the dangers is chimney fires. When you clean your chimney, you don’t worry about this. This is because you know that your clean chimney won’t start a fire.

A clean chimney also has minimal chances of carbon monoxide poisoning. This, too, gives you peace of mind that your family is safe.

You get to inspect the chimney.

When you are cleaning, you can see the inside of the chimney. It’s during this time that you can tell whether your unit is damaged or not. If it is, you should fix it as soon as possible.

During this time, you also get to see if there are any rats, squirrels, or any other animals inside the chimney and remove them. A telltale sign there are animals in your unit are nests. If you see them, find the animals and get rid of them.

You increase the efficiency of the chimney.

A clean, clear chimney improves airflow and combustion, increasing heating efficiency.

Removing the blockages and impediments allows the fireplace to perform properly, optimizing heat production while minimizing energy waste.

You make your home safer.

A well-maintained chimney increases the value of a home when it is being sold, so if you are looking to sell your home later down the line, keeping your chimney clean and in good shape ensures that you sell it at a higher price.

When should you clean your chimney?

Winter is the busiest season for chimney cleaning firms. It could be weeks before they can fit you in if you order their services at this time. That means you won’t be able to use your fireplace whenever you want or risk endangering your family’s safety.

To avoid all this, you should clean your chimney as early as possible. A good rule of thumb is to do it a few weeks to winter.

How often should you clean your chimney?

For the best outcome, you should clean your chimney once a year. You can do the cleaning yourself, but let a professional help you for the best outcome.

While you should engage a professional to clean and inspect your chimney once a year, you also should follow best practices to keep it in good working order all year.

To do this, keep your firebox clean, ensure your damper is open before using your fireplace, and invest in a chimney cover or crown, which will prohibit debris and even small animals from entering your chimney and home.

It is always wise to have your chimney have a stainless steel liner to ensure it meets code.

How do you know your chimney needs cleaning?

As mentioned, you should clean your chimney at least once a year. In some cases, you can do it early than planned or clean the chimney more than once. Some of the reasons you should consider doing it is if the chimney shows signs of it.

These signs include:

Poorly burning fire: If you’re having problems starting a fire in your fireplace, this might be because the chimney is clogged. Both of these issues can prohibit a fire from getting enough oxygen to burn properly.

What you need to do is to clean the chimney and get rid of the clogging materials.

The chimney is smelly: The stink of creosote is comparable to that of a bonfire, and if your chimney is ripe for cleaning, you can detect it. This stench may be pleasant to the senses, but it signifies that the pile in your chimney is about to catch fire, causing significant damage to your home and its belongings.

The airflow is obstructed: Creosote buildup obstructs airflow. This debris can accumulate to the top of your chimney, impeding airflow and causing fires to burn cooler and more sporadically.

There are birds and animals in your chimney: Bird nests can clog your chimney’s ventilation system and catch fire when you burn wood in your fireplace. If you haven’t cleaned your chimney for a long time, you will have nests covering the vents at the top of your chimney. Squirrels are also common in chimneys.

If your chimney shows any of these signs, you should move with haste and hire a chimney cleaning professional to clean the unit for you.

Who is a good chimney cleaning professional?

To get the best chimney cleaning services, you must hire the right contractor. Some of the things you should look out for when hiring include:

Training

Is your technician properly trained? You need to find this out.

A good rule of thumb is to ensure the technician has the relevant CSIA training. If you are working with a chimney cleaning company, your company should only send out a maintenance person with adequate expertise and has been trained by a Master Chimney Sweep.

Understanding the many types of fireplaces and venting systems is not a simple task. The position requires a knowledgeable expert constantly seeking new knowledge as the industry advances.

Insurance

Working on fireplaces and chimneys is a hazardous and messy job. The chimney cleaning professional must take extra precautions to keep themselves and the home safe from any unexpected mess or catastrophe.

A chimney cleaning firm goes above and above to protect staff and customers by properly educating crew members and maintaining liability insurance. Make sure the chimney company employs many technicians with certificates and liability insurance.

Experience

Is the expert well-versed in the varieties of chimneys found in your area? Look for reputable service providers who have worked on homes in your region.

When you find the right specialist, ask them a few additional questions. Perhaps the company was founded long ago, but how long have they served your area? It may seem like an unusual question to ask, but chimneys are distinctive, as are their challenges. Different regions are susceptible to different types of problems.

To be on the safe side, work with experienced chimney contractors Bowie who are conversant with your unit.

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