Fireplace and Chimney Tips

Relaxing with your favorite book…Sipping on a tasty beverage…Warming up your feet after a jaunt in the snow…

These activities can all be done in front of a warm and toasty fireplace.

But what do you do to maintain and operate your fireplace and chimney?

Although a fireplace can be a nice, cozy addition to any household, if not cared for, an unchecked fireplace or chimney can cause some unwanted problems.

Check out some of these tips before you set out to start your next fire…

Schedule a yearly, professional, inspection to insure there are no structural or mechanical issues with your fireplace.

A fire needs three things to survive: oxygen, fuel, and an ignition source.

Before making any fire, be sure to check inside the damper for any obstructions – such as a nesting animal or various yard debris.

Never add questionable fuel – only burn clean, seasoned wood, manufactured logs and non-glossy, white paper.

Never use “green” wood. Un-seasoned wood creates creosote – a combustible by product of charred wood.

Always keep the area around the front of the fireplace clear and free of obstacles (and potential dangerous fuel sources).

If you do not have a glass window on your fireplace, make sure you are using a wire mesh screen. Wire mesh is also a good idea to have on top of your chimney.

Ashes and creosote are a source of calcium – clean out your chimney and then sprinkle the ashes in your flowerbeds for a nice fertilizer addition.

Make sure there are no trees over or up against your chimney.

Install, check and maintain smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Following some of these simple tips will not only keep you warm this winter, but will also help ensure your safety througout the cold season. 

Until next time - Stay on Top of the Market.  

Erik Hart
REALTOR®, GREEN
"Happy, Humble, Hardworking"
Severna Park Office
Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.
(O)410-544-4000 (C)443-889-6860
http://erikhart.lnf.com
http://topofthemarket.blogspot.com

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