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This is a smart question to ask, because a damaged chimney crown can lead to serious problems that are expensive to fix.  A chimney crown is made of cement and covers the entire top of the chimney except for the flue opening.  Its purpose is to protect the chimney from water, which is a chimney’s worst enemy. When water infiltrates cracks in the chimney crown, it […] Read more

A mouthful of smoke is the last thing you want when you’re relaxing beside a warm hearth in your home. If your fireplace is venting smoke into your living room, the problem is most likely the smoke chamber. According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), smoke chamber parging […] Read more

Large potholes and cracked sidewalks in the spring demonstrate the big impact that freezing temperatures can have on masonry materials. The bricks and mortar of your chimney can be impacted in a similar way. You have the power to prevent this type of damage from freezing temperatures to your chimney. How the cold affects a chimney Masonry materials—such […] Read more

Running a fireplace is a fairly easy task.  Maintaining and repairing a fireplace and chimney is a little more complicated.  This is because a number of problems can occur without you being aware of them.  These problems can lead to expensive repairs or rebuilding and in some cases dangerous operating conditions. Let’s look at four common things that can go wrong with […] Read more

A linear fireplace is a rectangular gas fireplace that provides a remarkable range of possibilities for complementing modern and eclectic décor. For your living room, kitchen, bedrooms, and patio, this may be the ideal addition. Whether you want to lower your winter utility costs or add the right ambiance to […] Read more

A properly constructed masonry chimney can easily last a century or more. But all the while, the chimney is vulnerable to moisture. When water damages a home, the source of the problem is often a leaky chimney or one of its various components. What’s worse is that the damage often […] Read more

A clean chimney that’s in good repair is an efficient and safe chimney. If you suspect this doesn’t accurately describe your chimney, read on and find out what you need to know to restore its optimal performance. Why the condition of your chimney is so important Each year in the […] Read more

If you’re trying to decide whether you should install a free-standing wood stove or fireplace insert, you’re not alone. Many homeowners are looking for more efficient alternative heating solutions. But how do you know which is best for your home? While both will keep your home nice and warm and […] Read more

The holiday season is a wonderful time to light up your fireplace, but it can also be the most dangerous time. According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), residential house fires nearly double during the holiday season. Fireplaces are one of the culprits. You can keep your home and loved […] Read more

The wood-burning fireplace that you and your family enjoy so much in winter can put added strain on your budget year-around. A lot of heat can go right out the chimney, and that happens with or without a fire in the fireplace. The good news is that there is something […] Read more