As a chimney sweep, the most important part of a chimney that we inspect is the flue lining. In many older homes, there is no flue lining. This type of chimney system is referred to as an unlined chimney. According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America, “Never use a chimney that does not have … Continue reading Problems with an Unlined Chimney
Just like automobiles that have different manufacturers and models, the same goes for fireplaces and chimneys. Here in Southern California, there are primarily three different types of open fireplace systems–1) masonry chimneys; 2) prefabricated, factory-built systems; and 3) Rampart General Pre-Cast systems. Since I’ve already addressed Rampart General Pre-Cast systems in the past, this post … Continue reading What is a Masonry Chimney?
How many times do we, as chimney sweeps, advise a customer to contact someone that does tree removal services, a landscaper or a gardener? More often than you think! The rule of thumb is to keep trees at least ten feet from the top and at least two feet below the top of the chimney. … Continue reading What do Trees have to do with Chimneys?
There’s a lot to know in how to purchase, season and store firewood, not only to keep you safe but to save money. This is the third post in a series of three that will explain how to purchase, season and store your firewood. 1) Cut firewood to the proper size logs you will be … Continue reading 18 Need-to-Know Facts about storing firewood
Here are some interesting facts that will help you season your firewood for your fireplace or stove. Seasoning your wood is critical not only for safer fires, but to reduce creosote buildup in your fireplace or stove flue pipe and to reduce pollutants into the atmosphere. This is the second post in a series of … Continue reading 14 Need-to-Know Facts about Seasoning Firewood
Here are some interesting facts that will help you purchase firewood for your fireplace or stove. If you do it right, you will save money while keeping your family safe and toasty. This is the first post in a series of three that will explain how to properly purchase, season, and store firewood. 1) When … Continue reading 10 Need-to-Know Facts About Purchasing Firewood
Many people think that the sole reason for a chimney cap is to keep the embers from starting the roof on fire; however, there are so many other benefits to a chimney cap, even during the hot summer months. A chimney cap will keep the critters out! About a month ago, I received a panicked … Continue reading A Chimney Cap is Essential, Even During The Summer
This occurs more often than you think. Upon inspection of a fireplace, we find the gas valve for the fireplace is located INSIDE the firebox. The fact of the matter is, if the valve is located inside the firebox, then the valve has to be removed, capped off and relocated. According to the California International … Continue reading A gas valve inside a fireplace is dangerous!
True story: When I was growing up, we lived next door to some wonderful neighbors. John (not his real name) was a California Highway Patrolman and we highly respected him. His wife became best friends with my mother. My brothers and I became friends with their four sons. One winter, John was trying to get … Continue reading 10 Things to Never Burn in a Fireplace
Enjoying a warm fire on a cold evening is one of the simple pleasures in life, but not when that beautiful crackling fire is accompanied by the eye-burning scent of smoke. There are a number of causes for fireplace smoking problems, many of which are easily remedied. If you live in an area prone to … Continue reading Wind Caps Solve Fireplace Smoking Problems