Blog
How a Dirty Chimney Can Make You Sick
The fireplace is a respite for comfort at any time of year. Whether it’s staying warm on a chilly night, or entertaining guests on a Saturday afternoon, many families spend a lot of time gathering around the fireplace. Most homeowners are probably unaware that a dirty chimney can make them sick. Creosote Creosote is a […] Read more
Why You Should Consider Heating With Renewable Wood Energy
People have been using wood to heat their domiciles ever since . . . well, ever since people started heating their domiciles. Today, we still heat with wood, although the way we do it is a little more advanced (and safe) than it was many centuries ago. If you’re thinking about adding a new fireplace, fireplace […] Read more
Different Types of Chimney Caps: What You Should Know
Chimney caps are designed to protect the flue opening at the top of the chimney from damaging rain and snow. Some types of chimney caps go even further in their protective abilities. Let’s look at the two main types of chimney caps. Generic chimney caps This type of cap adds a solid layer of protection […] Read more
Why Is My Chimney Leaning and How Do I Fix It?
It’s not a good sign when you look up at the chimney and notice it leaning away from your house. It’s no optical illusion, and it is a dangerous situation. Depending on its size, a brick chimney can weigh over 8,500 pounds. It is secured to the foundation and attached to the roofline. But when […] Read more
Facts About Squirrels and Your Chimney
A chimney is an inviting place for squirrels, small birds, and other critters, looking to build a cozy nest away from the reach of predators. Most homeowners don’t realize that the neighborhood critters are using the chimney as a hotel until they hear the pattering, squealing, and gnawing of critters in the night. The chimney […] Read more
What’s Causing My Chimney Bricks To Start Leaning?
It’s not a good sign when you look up at the chimney and notice it leaning away from your house. It’s no optical illusion, and it is a dangerous situation. Depending on its size, a brick chimney can weigh over 8,500 pounds. It is secured to the foundation and attached to the roofline. But when […] Read more
Chimney Drafting Problems? A Chimney Pot Might Solve Them.
Does your fireplace periodically (or regularly) have drafting problems? Does smoke back up into the house when you’re burning a fire? Are your fires sluggish and never seem to get up and roar? A “yes” answer to any of these questions may point to a drafting issue. If this is the case, a chimney pot […] Read more
What Can I Do About Cold Air Coming from My Fireplace?
Fireplaces and chimneys are open systems designed to provide a clear drafting path for smoke and toxins to exit into the outside air. However, that creates a problem: this system heats your home, but it also creates a conduit for cold air to enter. Fortunately, this all-too-common problem has a number of solutions — some […] Read more
Protecting Your Chimney from Water Damage
Your chimney is a durable structure built to withstand the destructive nature of wind, fire, and ice. But weather can take its toll even on the toughest chimneys. The constant exposure to harsh weather conditions, like wind, rain, and snow, can accelerate its deterioration. And water is its greatest threat. It takes vigilance to prevent […] Read more
Can a Cold & Rainy Winter Damage My Chimney?
Weather that’s cold and rainy definitely can get the ball rolling toward chimney damage. Also, that kind of weather can significantly worsen any damage that already exists. Water and masonry don’t mix well. As solid as the surface of a chimney is, water will eventually erode it. Rain and melting snow can get into cracks […] Read more
