September 15, 2021
Published by Writer
Mankind has been making fire and using it for warmth, cooking and industry since the earliest days of our evolution. After all, the purpose of creating fireplaces goes back to our most elemental needs. As humans evolved, the need to further control fires became important. Let’s take a look at the history of the fireplace and how it has evolved over time. Early development The first fireplaces date back to the time of the Roman Empire. At that time, the fireplace (in such a manner as we know it now) was looked at as a luxury amenity—it was only found... View Article
September 1, 2021
Published by Writer
Chimney cleaning is an important task, as it allows you to remove creosote, the buildup that results from smoky fires. An accumulation of creosote inside a fireplace or chimney can create a possible chimney fire hazard. While there are ways to reduce creosote buildup, it’s also necessary to schedule regular chimney cleanings so you do not have to worry about the potential for a chimney fire. But how do you know if you need to start thinking about cleaning your chimney? Here are some chimney cleaning tips to consider before you take action. Inspecting for creosote Before you start cleaning,... View Article
August 12, 2021
Published by Writer
There’s nothing like a roaring fire, a good book and your favorite beverage to get through the cold winter months. If you have small children or pets, however, that can be a dangerous proposition. Plus, who wants to split firewood all season long? Fireplace inserts may be the answer to your problems. There are three broad categories: wood, gas and electric. Here’s what you need to know about these options. Wood fireplace inserts Wood-burning fireplace inserts are much more effective at distributing heat than a traditional masonry fireplace—that’s why they’ve been around for over 100 years. This option uses an... View Article
July 29, 2021
Published by Writer
We might be in the dog days of summer now, but soon enough, the weather will turn frosty. If you’ve been dreading the winter electricity bill, a pellet stove might do the trick. They’re a great way to keep the house warm, keep your electric bills low and enjoy all the coziness winter has to offer—but when should you start looking for one? Here’s a guide to pellet stove basics. What is a pellet stove? A pellet stove uses small wooden pellets to systematically feed a fire. The enclosed stove feeds the pellets into the flames at specific intervals. If... View Article
July 14, 2021
Published by Writer
Fire pits are what make summer nights come alive. They stand at the center of every roasted marshmallow, spooky story and great conversation. It’s all fun and games until a gust of wind blows sparks onto a pile of dry branches! Follow these fire pit safety tips to avoid catastrophe and keep the fun going all night long. Maintain a safe distance Guests may lean a bit too close to the fire pit while they roast marshmallows or simply admire the mesmerizing flames. Fire is unpredictable and can flare up at a moment’s notice, igniting coat sleeves or long hair... View Article