But unlike gas fireplaces, you do pay for that genuine experience in the form ofregular maintenance.
Fire can seek a path through the gaps and burn the house’s structural elements.
Fix mortar gaps inside the fireplace’s firebox with a mineral-based filler called fireplace mortar or refractory caulk.
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After that, it’s just a matter of caulking the joints.
Chimney cleaning rids your flue of potentially hazardous creosote and other flammable debris.
The chimney is cleaned from top to bottom, including the ashes in the firebox.
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Heavy buildup stops smoke from escaping out of the chimney.
It’s also highly flammable and toxic.
Flashing can tear away or fold back from falling limbs or even from pesky birds or squirrels.
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Weather cycles can deteriorate the seal as well.
Inspect your roof flashing to check that that it is intact.
Repair the flashing as needed.
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They also create creosote faster.
Softwoods include spruce, cedar, poplar, and balsam.
Favor hardwoods likemaple, oak, ash, and birch for a more consistent, hotter burn.
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With a caulking gun, caulk around the flue and the crown.
Check the chimney cap for cracks, dents, and other damage that could compromise its effectiveness.
Or you might just want to change out your current screen for a fresh look.
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Consider installing a glass fireplace screen.
These heat-proof glass inserts hold back most of the smoke while still allowing heat to pass into the home.
Or you might just be tired of it.
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Either way, you’re free to build a new fireplace mantel from live-edge wood or walnut stock.
Or you might like your fireplace mantel to look like an old railroad tiea faux one, of course.
If you’re not interested in woodworking, considerredecorating your mantelfor an entirely new look.
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Be sure to keepvermin and insects awayfrom the firewood since they can get transported into your house.
Minor exterior chimney defects are worsened by the outside elements and quickly turn into major problems.
Call in a professional as soon as signs appear rather than waiting for an annual inspection.
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If you have a fireplace, you will need to have alarms in place to detect an accidental fire.
Water could also damage your fireplace’s masonry.
Adding a thin layer of baking soda helps to snuff out any remaining embers.
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It is advised to abstain from using a fireplace every day.
Emissions from wood smoke are toxic and can cause particle pollution, which in turn can cause breathing problems.
A brick or masonry fireplace can last for many decades or even a century if it’s well-maintained.
The Spruce / Margot Cavin
A factory-built prefabricated fireplace insert can last between 15 to 20 years.
Creosote Problem: Chimney Fires and Chimney Cleaning.
University of Idaho Cooperative Extension System.
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Smoke alarms: Where to put them, how often to replace batteries.Texas Department of Insurance.
How to Put Out a Fire in the Fireplace at the End of the Night.Angi.
Wood Smoke and Your Health.EPA.
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