by Kevin Russell | Chimney Maintenance
Many of us believe that chimney sweepings are only for homes. However, there are a number of businesses that also need to have their chimneys swept – and not just businesses with fireplaces! If you own a restaurant or business that has a pizza oven, it’s chimney...
by Kevin Russell | Grates
Adding a grate to your wood burning fireplace can help improve the quality and efficiency of your fires. However, having the wrong sized grate can have the opposite effect; a grate that is too large can actually cause smoking and drafting issues. How grates affect...
by Kevin Russell | waterproofing
When many homeowners think chimney leak, they often think of damage to the chimney structure or exterior masonry. However, your firebox may be the part of your chimney system most affected by a leak. While your firebox is able to withstand the extremely high...
by Kevin Russell | Chimney Information
When we ask homeowners about chimney crickets, many assume we mean the chirping insects. Crickets, however, are an important chimney component that helps protect your chimney and roof against water entry. What is a chimney cricket? When talking about crickets, we...
by Kevin Russell | waterproofing
When it comes to taking care of your chimney, waterproofing can help protect it against moisture and help it last for years to come. However, not all waterproofing products are created equally; there is a significant difference between water repellents and water...
by Kevin Russell | Chimney Maintenance
Flashing is used around our homes to help seal windows, doors, and other joints or gaps. What many homeowners do not realize, however, is that flashing is also used on your chimney! Chimney flashing protects not only the chimney, but also your roof and the underlying...
by Kevin Russell | Uncategorized
Spring is known for its unpredictable weather, from heavy rains to strong winds – and even tornados! With the potential for extreme weather conditions, it is important to take steps to protect your chimney – as well as the rest of your home – from...
by Kevin Russell | chimney inspection, Chimney Maintenance
When experiencing burning issues, many of us look first at fireplace and chimney components such as the damper, flue, or chimney cap. However, your drafting or venting issues may be caused by an unusual cause – chimney height. Chimney height is extremely...
by Kevin Russell | Chimney Information, chimney protection, crown
One part of the chimney structure that is often ignored is the masonry wash, also known as the chimney crown. While difficult to see from the ground, the chimney crown has an important job to do and helps protect your home as well as your chimney and fireplace system....
by Kevin Russell | fireplace maintenance
Prefabricated or factory built fireplaces can be a cost effective alternative to a custom built masonry fireplace. However, there are a number of safety considerations that need to be taken into consideration with a prefabricated fireplace. One major safety concern...