If you are choosing a fireplace for your home, it’s not always a simple thing. You know what you want but selecting a fireplace that’s right for you involves a number of factors. It really boils down to what you desire from a fireplace. Is the fireplace going to be for heating your home, or is it for ambiance when you curl up in front of it? Do you want a highly decorated mantle or an austere one with clean lines? Do not worry. Here is Choosing the Perfect Fireplace: A Guide to Your Ideal Hearth. Wood Burning Hearths Wood-burning hearths have been popular since the bronze age for multiple reas ..read more

Colorado boasts some of the most breathtaking architecture in the United States. From the historic Victorian mansions of Colorado Springs to the red rocks of Monument, CO, there is something for everyone to appreciate. However, one of the most underrated features of Colorado’s architecture is the chimney. Chimneys are typically viewed as functional structures but can also be breathtaking, distinctive works of art. Along the Front Range, numerous homes and buildings showcase chimneys that are just as captivating as the natural landscape. Here are some of southern Colorado’s most exceptional and ..read more

With the arrival of winter, you will undoubtedly be using your fireplace more, which means you will also be using your chimney more. So, what does that mean? It means your chimney is at greater risk for a fire, but don’t worry, we have the answer. Here is a guide- Avoiding Winter Chimney Fires: Crucial Prevention Tips. Tips for Avoiding a Chimney Fire Soot and Creosote Buildup Soot and creosote are generated every time you burn logs. When soot and creosote coat your walls, your chimney has a greater risk of a fire being sparked by a floating ember. Stainless Steel Chimney Liner  It’s simp ..read more

Every time you burn logs in your fireplace, a hidden danger grows more imminent and threatens your family and your home. What is this jeopardous substance? It’s known as creosote, and you should know how it gathers in your chimney and the dangers of creosote. Let’s take a closer look. What is Creosote? Creosote is a dark, tar-like substance that forms due to incomplete combustion of wood and other organic materials. It consists of unburned hydrocarbons, smoke, vapors, gases, and other particles released during the burning process. Depending on the composition and burning conditions, Creosote ..read more

Summer is here, and you may be staring at your fireplace, wondering how to hide it until fall, but that need not be the case. Face it; your fireplace is the focal point of your room, so instead of trying to hide it, why not accentuate it for Summer? You may also want to consider having your fireplace and chimney inspected and cleaned by a qualified chimney sweep service during their slow season. So, here are some summer ideas for your fireplace. Beach or Nautical Themes Embrace the summer by creating a beach or nautical-themed display. Fill glass containers with sand, shells, and beach glass ..read more

If you live in Colorado or another state with extremely cold winters, you may have your share of chilly summer temperatures as well. From Fort Collins to Trinidad, Coloradans know that just because they move into the summer months doesn’t mean that the cold goes away completely. Summer fireplace use is wonderful to take the chill off an evening or as a backdrop for parties and get-togethers. But keep in mind that increased fireplace use calls for increased cleaning, inspections and maintenance. FlameMaster of Crystola, CO, would like to share a few tips and reminders with homeowners who enjoy ..read more

The damper is an essential part of the chimney. A good, working damper is needed year-round. Anyone who operates your fireplace should know about the chimney damper to avoid danger and unnecessary expenses. A CSIA-certified chimney sweep will check the operation and closure of the damper assembly during chimney inspections, which should be scheduled annually. Find out the basics about chimney dampers…. When to Open the Damper The chimney damper should be fully opened before lighting a fire. Otherwise, toxic combustion gases will go into the home. Carbon monoxide is among those fumes, and signi ..read more

Cleaning and maintaining your chimney is not a do-it-yourself job. If you look closely, you can see signs your chimney needs a professional to take care of it. You could also damage your chimney and fireplace while trying to save money, which could cost you more in the long run. Here are some signs your chimney needs a professional chimney sweep service to maintain it. How Can You Tell If Your Chimney Has Issues? Smoke If you’re noticing that your fires are consistently smoky or the smoke doesn’t seem to draw well up the chimney, it might be time to call a professional chimney sweep service. T ..read more

Have you taken a walk around the yard this spring? Once the snow melts and the weather starts to get warmer, the first thing you will want to do is to get outside. See how the house and yard weathered the long hibernation of winter. Now is the time to find out if you need repairs. Repairs to your yard, fences, shingles of the house and of course the chimney. Winter weather, with its snow and freezing rain can do a number on the masonry of your chimney. Let’s dig in and find out what exactly you should be looking for. Common Chimney Damage The chimney crown and cap: This is the most exposed ar ..read more

From time to time, a homeowner will see or be told that their chimney is starting to lean. While not the most common of chimney problems, it’s something we wanted to address today. So, if you’re wondering why your chimney is starting to lean, sit back and join us on our journey today as we unpack why this occasionally happens. First, is a chimney that is starting to lean a problem? Your chimney is just as important of a part of your home as your gutters, your HVAC system, and your electrical wiring. It helps to divert smoke and dangerous gasses out of your home while burning a fire in your fir ..read more