For everyone with a fireplace, having a functioning chimney draft is essential to safe, efficient burning. A chimney draft is essentially the process of heat rising and fresh air coming in to feed a fire, and in that process, a…
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In colder climates, people might use their fireplace year-round. However, in the Midwest, where each season brings variable temperatures, many choose to use it only seasonally. Seasonal fireplace use provides an excellent opportunity to stay on top of fireplace maintenance,…
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The small metal cover at the top of a chimney does a lot of work that most homeowners overlook. You wouldn’t leave a hole, window, or door open to the elements in any other part of your home, and your…
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Having a fireplace in your home is a cozy asset, providing both warmth and ambiance during the cold winter months, especially if you live in the far west suburbs of Chicago. However, your fireplace’s chimney poses significant risks if not…
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Nothing is cozier than snuggling up by a warm fireplace on a cold winter’s day, but what if that scene is spoiled by odors, dampness, or dangerous cracks? Chimney weatherproofing helps protect your home year-round from weather damage in every…
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If you have a fireplace in your home, you may have heard of creosote buildup, but do you know it can pose a significant risk of chimney fire? Creosote buildup is common in wood-burning fireplaces and must be addressed. Not…
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The chimney easily becomes the “out of sight, out of mind” part of the house for many homeowners, until something majorly goes wrong. Cracked masonry, chimney fires, smoke damage, and carbon monoxide leaks can seem to appear suddenly without warning,…
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When thinking about fireplace safety, most homeowners’ main concern is more obvious signs of danger, such as smoke, sparks, or visible damage. What many don’t realize is that one of the biggest risks of chimney fires is creosote buildup, which…
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As a homeowner, regular maintenance is part of keeping your home in good condition. One chore that often gets overlooked or forgotten about is chimney cleaning. Regular maintenance on your chimney is crucial in reducing fire or carbon monoxide poisoning…
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When buying a home, many buyers go through a very thorough checklist that often leaves out the chimney. Whether your new home has a wood-burning fireplace or a gas insert, you need to understand the system and know what to…
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As snow begins to fall this winter, many homeowners will return to the comfort of their cozy fireplaces and heating systems. While the winter season is full of family gatherings and getting cozy by the fireplace, it’s also a critical…
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Fire safety is an essential aspect of protecting homes, businesses, and communities. Every year, thousands of fires lead to preventable property damage, injuries, and loss of life. An organization dedicated to fire safety and behind many NFPA fire safety guidelines,…
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