For many, the fireplace is the focal point of the home. Whether you use it for heat or just for ambiance, a wood burning fireplace is an important feature that requires regular maintenance to function and keep everybody safe. Here are some tips for general maintenance of your wood-burning fireplace:
One of the simplest ways you can maintain a wood-burning fireplace is to keep the inside of it clear of ash and debris. After a fire, scoop out the cool ashes with a trowel or shovel and store them in a metal container. Remove any pieces of wood charcoal or other debris from inside as well. Not only will this improve the overall aesthetics, it will make for a more efficient fire with fewer byproducts.
A well-maintained fireplace shouldn't cause any major problems, but if one does arise, your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors can save your life. If you have a clog in your chimney or vent system, it can cause carbon monoxide buildup in your home. This deadly gas is odorless and colorless, so it's crucial you have the detectors and alarms in good working order.
Smoke, while more obvious, should still be monitored using a detector with an alarm. If enough smoke has accumulated in the room that it reaches the smoke detector, you'll know it's time to act.
Creosote is one of the main byproducts of burning wood in your fireplace. You'll find it in the form of a thick black residue on the inner walls of your chimney or even on the outside of your hearth. A buildup of creosote is one of the most common causes of accidental fire, as it's a flammable substance. If you regularly clean creosote deposits from your fireplace, you can prevent it from builduing up to toxic and dangerous levels.
Most basic fireplace maintenance can be handled on your own, but don't hesitate to consult a professional if you need help. Chimney sweeping and advanced cleaning are worthy investments and can keep you safer while enjoying your fireplace.
I started my career in the real estate industry at the age of sixteen and instantly fell in love.
I worked alongside one of the top producing agents in the country as their administrative assistant for nearly nine years before I took the leap to begin my own journey in the real estate industry.
Working alongside an agent who sells over three hundred houses a year educated me strongly on the Pittsburgh and greater Pittsburgh housing market. While working alongside this agent, I was lucky enough to be involved in several different types of real estate transactions and learned to properly determine home values, many aspects of negotiations and have learned how to close challenging deals while also handling a large amount of deals at the same time.
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