Fireplaces

Fireplace inserts can burn natural gas, propane, wood, pellet, coal and even run on electricity. They are popular because, according to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, they are more...

During colonial times homeowners relied on their masonry fireplaces to heat the entire home in the midst of a brutal winter. As you might imagine, the fireplaces of the past were large, not only...

A chimney cap can refer to a decorative copper or a metal cage-like device placed on top of a chimney to prevent rain and small animals like birds and squirrels from entering the chimney and to...

Propane fireplace inserts are an energy-efficient alternative to a standard wood-burning fireplace. Fireplace inserts also burn cleaner and do not pollute the air, which can be helpful for those...

Fireplace inserts produce more heat than a traditional fireplace, along with being better for the environment. Using a fireplace insert instead of running your home's heater can save money on...

A damper is a metal valve or blocking device that regulates the flow of air inside duct piping or a chimney flue, thereby controlling the combustion rate of the fire in the stove below it. ...

The flue is the metal duct work, ceramic piping or brick chimney stack that runs from a firebox to the top of a chimney to the outdoors. The flue directs exhaust gases and debris from a fireplace...

Fireplaces are decorative, but they're also the result of hundreds of years of experimentation and research in the art of heating the indoors by bringing fire in from the outdoors. The grandfather...

The same basic requirements for chimney components will apply whether installing a wood burning stove in a single-story or in a two-story home. Aside from the stove itself, a suitable and safe...

The first part of building a chimney is to set the framing for the fireplace and flue. Once this is done, you can then size up the chimney and begin to build. Usually, the flue is installed first....

Inspect the chimney and flue prior to installation. Check for any damage that may appear. Have the chimney cleaned to ensure that no debris or blockages appear. Hire a professional to check and...

It is important to select the proper wood for a fireplace. You will want to avoid pine woods since they create creosote upon burning. Creosote will collect in chimneys and pose a potential fire...

The thought of chimneys conjure up an image of Santa Clause stuffing himself down the brick formed structure. In addition to providing an entry way for Santa, chimneys also add character and charm...

This How To will explain the basics for "Rumfordizing" your existing fireplace. It will make your fireplace radiate enormous amounts of heat back into your home as well as stop any...

Recently, we decided to try to use our living room fireplace, which hadn't been used for decades, and had never been used by us in the 8 years we have lived here. The previous owners, family...

A chimney cap is a metal "roof" that fits over the flue on top of your chimney. A chimney cap keeps rain and snow out of your flue. Wind or objects such as tree branches that blow into your...

If you get smoke drifting into the room when you use your fireplace, it's an indication you have a weak draft. If your chimney is free of obstructions and your damper is working properly, the...

If you want to salvage an old fireplace, consider installing a fireplace insert. The fireplace itself is a ready made hole making installation relatively easy. Best of all, an insert produces more...

Whether it is a gentle glow on a romantic evening or a cheerful crackle on a wintry afternoon, nothing can add to the mood of a room like a wood fire in a fireplace. Architects are still designing...