When Did Chimney Sweeping Begin?

When you hear the words chimney sweep it is likely that you are filled with images of soot covered men, bright white smiles on their faces, dancing on rooftops – with Mary Poppins and the Banks kids joining in on the fun. The truth is, few professions have been...

End-of-Season Fireplace Guide

The temperatures are rising and spring is officially underway. For most, that means saying farewell (for now) to the cozy fires of the burning season. Before you call fireplace season a wrap, there are a few things you should do, so that your fireplace will be ready...

Pros & Cons of Gas-Fueled Systems

A gas fireplace or insert gives you the ambiance and warmth of a flame without relying on solid fuels or producing some of the byproducts of a wood-burning unit. They’ve risen in popularity over the years, and as they’ve graced more and more homes, manufacturers have...

Creosote Sweeping Logs: Do They Work?

Creosote. It’s that dark, tarry substance that can build up in your chimney. It doesn’t go away on its own and, because it’s a combustible, it can become a hazard if left unchecked. So, what’s the best way to get rid of it? Are the creosote sweeping logs that are...

Guide to Burning Wood in Your Fireplace

Knowing what to burn in a wood burning fireplace may seem cut and dried (no pun intended), but there’s likely more to it than you think. Is any wood suitable fuel for your fireplace? Do some wood varieties burn better than others? Is tossing cardboard, paper...