How Do I Pick The Perfect Wood Burning Stove?

With winter just around the corner, many homeowners will be looking for ways to reduce their home heating costs. One option is to install a wood burning stove. Properly installed, a wood burning stove can be an excellent alternative to natural gas. A wood burning stove is also a more environmentally friendly way to stay…

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Who’s Capping Your Masonry Chimney?

Chimney caps are an important component in the maintenance of your fireplace and chimney. But with a masonry chimney, you need to weigh thebad with the good. Below are some reasons chimney caps are a necessity: A chimney cap keeps rain and subsequent moisture from building within your chimney. A chimney cap keeps critters, especially…

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Why Should I Have My Dryer Vent Cleaned?

One of the biggest hidden dangers in your home is a dirty dryer vent. Over time, lint deposits build up in the vent. Because of the high temperatures necessary to dry your clothes, if those deposits aren’t removed, you run the risk of fire. If you have a gas dryer, a dirty vent can lead…

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Who Establishes Chimney Sweeping Industry Standards?

The question I raise in today’s blog title is one of the more frequent questions I get in the chimney sweeping industry. For many people, chimney sweeping seems like an occupation from times gone by. But most homes have a chimney, and it’s important that it be maintained. The best way to meet this need…

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Know Your Chimney Liner: Stainless Steel versus Ceramic Tile

The chimney liner plays a crucial role in the function of your chimney. Most people, however, aren’t aware of this vital component. Below is a quick tutorial: Have you ever wondered how the soot and other dangerous materials produced by your fireplace exit your chimney? The chimney liner helps to push those chemicals out. At…

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What Is Chimney Flashing and Why Is It Important?

Our friends on the East coast are suffering through the consequences of Hurricane Irene. Key ingredients of a hurricane include high-powered winds and violent sheets of rain, which can be detrimental to your chimney. Your best defense for extreme weather is to make sure your chimney flashing is solid and secure. Chimney flashing is what…

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Why Should I Have My Chimney Inspected Every Year?

The winter months are just around the corner, which makes it a perfect time to have your chimney swept. The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) recommends an annual inspection to help prevent any of the issues that may lead to damage in your home. Below are the top five reasons you should have your chimney…

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