by Joe Shear | Feb 27, 2023 | Uncategorized
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... by Joe Shear | Jan 17, 2023 | Burning Firewood
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... by Joe Shear | Dec 19, 2022 | Mental Health
When you think of owning a fireplace you likely imagine reading a book next to the glow and warmth of a flickering fire or enjoying the crackling and popping of the wood as it burns in the background of the daily going-ons of your home. Anyone who regularly uses a... by Joe Shear | Nov 30, 2022 | Smoky Fireplace
So, you go to light a fire on a cold, winter evening, but instead of peaceful flames, you’re met with smoke in your living space – and you need to know what to do about it. Well, there are actually many things that can cause airflow to be restricted or to... by Joe Shear | Oct 24, 2022 | Fireplace Safety
Like many who enjoy lighting up cool, dusky evenings with the comfort of a cheery fire, you’ve probably considered how to do so as safely as possible. Yet, as the season famous for enjoying fires draws near, it’s a good idea to refresh yourself on fireplace safety. We... by Joe Shear | Sep 21, 2022 | Chimney Swifts
Every spring and summer, aerial acrobats known as chimney swifts return to their breeding grounds in the eastern part of the country, ranging from here in New York, as far south as Arkansas and northern Florida. Once here, these beautiful creatures make their homes... by Joe Shear | Aug 28, 2022 | Tuckpointing
Your home needs regular maintenance year round, but as fall and winter approach, some extra precautions typically need to be taken. From scheduling a tune-up for your furnace to making sure your pipes are insulated, ensuring your home is ready to take on anything the... by Joe Shear | Jul 18, 2022 | Real Estate Inspections
Transferring property? Whether you’re the buyer or the seller, you want to be sure that everything in the home is in good condition and functioning properly. And you want to be thorough, too. It’s easy to overlook a seemingly small issue, but even unassuming... by Joe Shear | Jun 16, 2022 | Dampers
Your chimney damper is one of the most critical components of your fireplace system, and it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. When you’re changing out a system or replacing a stuck or damaged throat damper, top-sealing dampers are the... by Joe Shear | May 29, 2022 | Springtime Maintenance
There are lots of ways to freshen up your fireplace, and now that’s we’re nearing the start of summer, now’s the time to get it done. That way, come fall, you’ll be all set and ready to use you system with ease! Call in our sweeps now to ensure... 