by Joe Shear | May 25, 2023 | Chimney Sweep History
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...
by Joe Shear | Apr 28, 2023 | Chimney Maintenance
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...
by Joe Shear | Mar 29, 2023 | Gas Appliances
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...
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...
