Help For The Fireplace Shopper

Hearth Country Premium Ash Vacuum – Product Review

2009-10-27T14:15:00.001-04:00

The Hearth Country Premium Ash Vacuum is one of the premier fireplace ash vacuums currently on the market. It’s a fast, quiet, and easy way to cleanup any ash debris from your fireplace, wood stove, or pellet stove.

This ash vacuum has multiple design features that help to minimize any damage to the unit from hot embers. The hose used is made of a light-weight metal allow, and the pre-filter is a small screen metal mesh that is used to protect the hepa inner filter.

This is how it works – the debris enters the vacuum through the hose and goes straight down – minimizing the chances of hot embers damaging the machine. However, this unit is NOT designed to pick up hot embers. The embers go straight into the bottom of the canister. The canister has a dual-wall sub floor that keeps the outer sides of the canister cool. DO NOT attempt to pickup large piles of ash from a fireplace or woodstove with the ash vac. Instead, remove bulk of ash with a shovel and ash can and then use the ash vac for final cleanup. if large chunks of ash are picked up, turn off machine to dislodge.

Also featured is a built-in vibrating filter that clears any buildup around the filter without having to remove the dust-proof lid. Make sure to activate the vibration feature after about 1 cup of ash has been removed. The spring loaded activator vibrates the hepa filter while the vacuum is turned off, and cleans away much of the build-up helping to increase suction power and efficiency.

The Hearth Country Premium Ash Vacuum’s canister is comprised of steel and has a four gallon capacity. The outer finish of the canister is powder coated, and it is currently only available in black. This vacuum also features a comfortable hand grip and weighs in at only eight pounds. It has a specially insulated 80db quiet motor. Also – you don’t need to worry about ever replacing and bag filters because this ash vacuum does not require one! So enjoy your fireplace this winter and keep your cleaning easy by getting a Hearth Country Premium Ash Vacuum today!

Wood Burning Fireplace Heater – Product Review

2009-10-26T15:33:00.001-04:00

Make your fireplace more efficient with the Wood Burning Fireplace Heater. This fireplace heater has one of the largest burning areas of any fireplace blower system on the market. It has a full-sized grate with the capability to hold a large display of wood.

The Wood Burning Fireplace Heater - which is designed for masonry fireplaces - features both a front and rear log guard along with a heat shielded blower unit. This grate sits lower to the ground, allowing you to have a better display of your burning logs. Your fireplace door sits on top of the heater bar.

Once your fire is lit, the heater system is automatically activated by a heat sensor. The heater system switches off once it reaches a temperature of about 90 degrees. This is how it works - the fireplace blower pulls in the cold air from your home and forces it through the grate. The cold air then heats up as it goes through the grate and passes through the fire, and exits on the opposite end pumping warm air into your home.

The unique feature about this particular heater system is that its blower motor has the capability to switch sides to accommodate both a left and right hand electrical power source. It also features 4 adjustable legs – this allows you to adjust the height you would like your grate at. This is also perfect if your fireplace happens to be uneven.

The Wood Burning Fireplace Heater is easy install – all you need to do is place it in your fireplace, plug it in, and build a fire! It is available in three different sizes – small, medium, and large. Increase the efficiency of your fireplace this winter with the Wood Burning Fireplace Heater!

Bear Wood Stove Steamer – Product Review

2009-08-11T16:05:00.002-04:00

Wood stove steamers can be an essential part of your home during the winter months. The Bear Wood Stove Steamer is the perfect fit for anyone who has an affinity for the outdoors and nature. Made of cast iron, this steamers high-quality design features a durable porcelain finish inside and out that resists rusting and chipping. Used for humidifying, it will bring a pleasant fragrance to a room if you decide to fill it with potpourri.

The Bear Wood Stove Steamer is available in both black matte cast iron and brown majolica and has the capacity to hold about three quarts of water. Keep your home cozy and comfortable this winter with the Bear Wood Stove Steamer!

Log Cabin Wood Stove Steamer – Product Review

2009-08-03T16:15:00.002-04:00

The Log Cabin Wood Stove Steamer will bring a classic, woodsy feel to any home. It is perfect for anyone that loves nature and the outdoors. This steamer has gorgeous intricate details that no picture can begin to show.

This Log Cabin Wood Stove Steamer is made out of cast iron and has aan inner porcelain finish both inside and out that helps to resist any rust or corrosion. Woodstove heat is very, very dry and a steamer will add moisture to the air.

The neat aspect of this wood stove steamer is that the steam actually escapes from the cabins chimney! It makes a great addition to any home – especially one with a woodsy feel. The Log Cabin Steamer helps to keep the moisture in the air a great deal more during the winter months and will help to keep your home from becoming too dry!

Weathershield Chimney Cap – Product Review

2009-08-03T15:13:00.002-04:00

The Weathershield chimney cap is not your average chimney cap – it’s specially constructed for two different types of chimneys. The Weathershield cap for air insulated chimneys makes sure that there is proper internal venting for both double-wall and triple-wall air-insulated chimneys. The other available style is for single walled chimneys or for solid pack pipes. These cap styles both help to maintain your chimneys performance by keeping out everything – snow, rain, leaves, debris, and pests.

The Weathershield chimney cap comes standard with a removable mesh screen that helps to contain any sparks and/or hot ash. It also has a secure wind-resistant fit that won’t interfere with the convection cooling features of the chimney. There is a spring-tension connector that helps to assure a tight, friction fit.

This chimney cap will not rust or corrode because of the high quality stainless steel that it is comprised of. There is also copper available for those who prefer that look over the traditional stainless steel. Regardless, both materials stand strong against forceful weather and irregular temperatures. The Weathershield chimney cap is a top of the line cap that will last you and your home for many years to come.

Woodstove Steamers

2009-07-30T16:02:00.002-04:00

Woodstove steamers are becoming increasingly popular amongst homeowners with woodstoves. Steamers are an excellent way to add a decorative touch to your stove without spending a lot of money. They also do double duty by adding moisture and humidity into the air.

You might be wondering - why do I need to add moisture and humidity into the air? If you currently have a woodstove, than you probably already know the answer. The truth is - when it comes to burning wood in your woodstove - the heat output can be very intense and dry. Dry air becomes increasingly uncomfortable during the winter months. The dryness is quite noticeable and can result in scratchy throats, chapped lips, and dry skin. Nobody wants to deal with that!

This is how it works – the bottom of the steamer is bowl shaped and is where you place the water. The top of the steamer will have holes in it that allow the steam to escape and enter your home. All you have to do is heat up the water - it’s that simple! Wood stove steamers come in a variety of styles, shapes, and colors. From whale to cabin shaped steamers - you will be able to find something that fits your liking and décor of your home.

Quick tip – you can add orange peels, potpourri, and even cloves to your steamer and it will give off a pleasant aroma in your home.

If you are planning on purchasing a steamer for your woodstove (or even if you already have one) you should consider getting a trivet. A trivet is generally made from cast iron and sits on top of the woodstove as sort of a heat pad between the steamer and the stove. It helps to prevent rusting on the stove, and it keeps the steamer from becoming too hot. They are great for saving your table and countertops from heat damage too! Just like steamers – trivets come in an array of styles and colors.

Stay comfortable this winter with the help of a woodstove steamer. Whether you are looking for something stylish – or something that will do the job – you will easily be able to find one that will suit your liking!

Chimney Safety

2009-07-30T10:42:00.002-04:00

Taking care of your chimney is a big responsibility not only for the efficiency of your fireplace, but for the safety of your chimney and home. The interior of your chimney can break down from the creosote, toxic gases, and extreme temperatures. This can become very dangerous for your family. Chimney safety can be promoted by making sure your chimney is operating correctly. It’s important that you take proper care and maintenance of your chimney to reduce risk of a possible chimney fire.

Creosote buildup in your chimney is what will cause a chimney fire. Creosote is very flammable and can ignite easily. Many house fires are caused by unsafe creosote filled chimneys. The main cause of creosote buildup is the burning of unseasoned wood. Creosote can also be from slow smoldering fires that do not allow the flue gases to burn off before cooling down and bonding to the inside of the chimney. Truly, to keep your creosote buildup down to a minimum you will want to burn clean, seasoned wood and nothing else.

For more information on how to keep you chimney safe, please check out “Cleaning Instructions for a Metal or Pre-Fabricated Chimney” or “How to Clean a Masonry Chimney.”

Chimney Cleaning Tools

2009-07-27T11:31:00.002-04:00

It’s important to know what you are doing if you plan on cleaning your chimney on your own. But it’s even more imperative that you have the proper tools and brushes. I will break down the basic brushes and necessities that you will need to help you through the chimney cleaning process.

The Flue Brush
The Flue brush is used to remove the most creosote from the walls of your chimney. Flue brushes come in many different shapes and sizes. They are available in round, square, oval, and rectangular shapes. They range in widths from 5” to 14”. You will be able to find a brush regardless of the size or shape of your chimney. Not only do brushes come in different sizes and shapes, but they also come in a variety of materials. The most common materials are wire brushes and polypropylene plastic.

Wire brushes are made from oil tempered steel. Wire brushes come in two types – flat and round. Flat brushes are stiff and work well because they will put more pressure against the walls of your chimney. Round brushes give average scraping on the interior of chimney walls.

Polypropylene brushes are softer than wires brushes and can be used for most chimney liners and metal chimneys. These brushes bristles are so soft that they will not scratch the inside of a metal chimney. The only negative aspect of poly brushes is that they do not scrape as well as wire brushes because their bristles are so soft.

Hand Brushes
Hand brushes are probably the most commonly used chimney tool. They are used to clean connectors, fireboxes, smoke chambers, chimney caps, and smoke shelves. They come in a number of different shapes and sizes. Wire brushes are usually available with attached scrapers for extra convenience. There are even hand brushes available that have softer bristles that are used for cleaning up soot and ash.

Chimney Rods
Chimney rods are used to push the chimney brush through the flue. You can attach multiple chimney rods together so that you can achieve the desired length for your chimney. They are available in a number of different materia ls such as fiberglass and polypropylene.

Polypropylene rods are the most commonly used rods because they are the most flexible of the bunch. The downfall of this is that they will not withstand heavy duty use over and over again.

Fiberglass rods are the most commonly used because they are available in large variety of rigid and flexible styles.

How to Clean a Masonry Chimney

2009-07-23T11:04:00.002-04:00

If you have a masonry chimney the cleaning procedure for it will differ from that of a metal or pre-fabricated chimney. However – you will still need the same type of chimney cleaning materials.

Cleaning your masonry chimney will be a bit easier than cleaning a metal or pre-fabricated chimney – you won’t have to go onto the roof! However – the downfall from cleaning inside your house is that it is much messier – so make sure to cover up furniture and flooring.

1. First you will need to make sure that you are outfitted in the appropriate attire. It is important that you are also wearing some sort of eye protection, gloves, and a dust mask.

2. You will need to measure the inner flue liner dimensions in both directions. It’s important that you obtain the correct size brushes – if they are too small they will not apply enough pressure to your chimney walls and if they are too large they can get stuck.

3. Connect your rods and brush, and place them into the opening of your fireplace and into the chimney. Brush on all sides in short up-and-down motions to break up the creosote buildup. Make sure to do this multiple times.

4. Next, you can take a vacuum and try to suck up any excess or loose creosote from the inside walls of your chimney and fireplace. Also make sure to vacuum any gunk that had fallen during the cleaning process.

If you use your chimney regularly during the winter seasons, you should clean it around twice a month to get maximum usage from it. Also, use chimney cleaning products that can help reduce your need to clean the chimney with brushes. Regular chimney cleanings and maintenance will help to increase the longevity of your fireplace.

Cleaning Instructions for a Metal or Pre-Fabricated Chimney

2009-07-16T15:36:00.002-04:00

Cleaning your chimney is a very important task that needs to be done periodically. It is important that it is examined and thoroughly cleaned to maintain efficiency and to reduce the chance of chimney fire. Build up of creosote and soot on the chimney walls can cause smoke to coat the walls of your chimney and can even cause a fire.

You will first need to buy a set of chimney rods and brushes that are the proper size for the interior of your chimney. For a metal or pre-fabricated chimney, you will need to go onto your roof and remove the chimney cap. You will then need to measure the distance across the inner diameter of the chimney. You want to make sure that your chimney brush is the correct size – if it is too large it will get stuck – if it is too small it will not apply enough pressure to the walls of the chimney.

1. Before you begin cleaning your chimney, you will want to make sure to change into old clothes and wear safety goggles along with a mask. You will also want to cover your fireplace opening with a tarp or sheet to keep any dust and gunk from escaping into your home. You may also want to cover furniture or anything else in the room so that nothing gets ruined.

2. For your metal or pre-fabricated chimney you will need to start the cleaning process from the top of your roof. Make sure to use caution every time you are on your roof. You will need to remove the chimney cap and use either a round wire or poly brush in the correct size. Poly brushes are recommended for metal chimneys because they will not wear down or scratch the steel lining. You will want to use a rod that will reach the entire length of your chimney – so you will most likely need to attach multiple rods together.

3. Attach your brush to your chimney rod and place your brush into the chimney and run it up and down the interior of the chimney. You will want to use a short up-and-down motion.

4. Once your brush reaches the bottom of your chimney, go through the motions again beginning at the top. You will want to repeat these actions a few times to make sure that everything is cleared out of your chimney.

Regular cleanings of your chimney will not only maximize your chimney’s efficiency, but will also increase the longevity of it as well. You also may want to consider using alternative chimney cleaning products in between chimney cleanings, such as chimney cleaning logs that will help reduce creosote buildup.

Hearth Rugs – What They Are & Why You Need One

2009-05-22T15:29:00.002-04:00

Burning a fire during the cold winter months has been a family favorite throughout the generations. A fire is always a great excuse to stay in and relax. We have fireplace doors and screens that help to keep our family safe, but shouldn’t we have something to keep our floors safe?

It’s easy to keep your carpet or wood floor safe from hot embers or ashes that spark up by having a fire-resistant hearth rug. A hearth rug is a small throw rug that is usually shaped like a half circle. You can easily save and protect your floor by placing one of these fire resistant rugs in front of your hearth. They will also save your flooring from rolling logs and firewood bark while giving adding elegance to your home.

Purchasing a hearth rug is definitely a smart investment. One hearth rug will last you for many years, where as if you don’t have a hearth rug – there is a chance that you may have to replace any carpet or flooring if there are any hot sparks that fly out of your fire. It’s important that you purchase a hearth rug over a regular rug – hearth rugs are flame-retardant whereas if you purchase a regular rug you’re not exactly sure what you will get.

There are many different styles, sizes, and co lors of hearth rugs available. You will be able to find one to fit into almost any décor. They are also available in a variety of materials; however, nylon, wool, and fiberglass are the most common.

Nylon hearth rugs are generally lower priced and are often used more for decoration. If a burning ember comes into contact with a nylon rug then there is a good chance that you will have a small black melted spot on your rug that cannot be removed. Nylon has a higher melting point than other synthetic hearth rugs. The best thing about nylon hearth rugs is that they are simple and inexpensive, yet they will still protect your flooring or carpet.

Wool is one of the best natural fiber materials that can be used in hearth rugs. Wool hearth rugs can be singed by flying sparks, however, any marks can be easily brushed out. Wool is very durable and does not melt. Another nice trait about wool hearth rugs is that they will extinguish themselves naturally if they do catch fire.

The best protection you can get with any type of hearth rugs are those made from fiberglass. Fiberglass is a man made material that is actually used in many industries such as electric and thermal insulation. This material makes these fiberglass hearth rugs a bit more costly, but they will never melt or burn, and last you for a very long time.

So add some more style and elegance to your home while keeping your floors safe with a hearth rug today!

Gel Fuel – Product Review

2009-05-14T10:14:00.001-04:00

If you love the look of a roaring fire but don’t like to deal with the aftermath, like the smoke and the mess to clean up, then you might want to consider using gel fuel. Gel fuel is an odor free, alcohol based product that doesn’t leave smoke, soot, or ash behind. This means you won’t need a chimney or ventilation system to have a nice, cozy fire in your home. Plus, you’ll have the benefit of not needing a chimney or any additional ventilation.

Safety is one of the first things people ask about with any type of fireplace unit, whether electric, gas, wood burning, or gel. No need to worry, gel fuel fireplaces are perfectly safe to use inside or outside the home. These ventless fireplaces do not emit any smoke or toxic fumes.

Gel fuel isn’t intended to create significant warmth, although it is comparable to an electric fireplace so you will get some. However, it will create the flickering flames and ambiance you’re probably looking for. Most gel fuel fireplaces produce a heat output of about 3,000 BTU’s per hour, but you’ll have to check with the specific type that you choose.

Fireplaces, or small containers, that use gel rather than wood, gas, or electricity are super easy to install and maintain. They run on inexpensive gel fuel, so you could save on electricity costs and a few cans of gel fuel with be much less expensive than maintaining a traditional wood burning fireplace. Most cans can last from 2.5 to 3 hours each and can be reused over and over again until they are empty. Also relatively inexpensive, gel fuel usually costs less than $5 a can and can be even cheaper if purchased in bulk.

If your plan is to use gel fuel to burn outside, some units even have citronella drops available so you can have an attractive bug buster. There are even more options for outside use than inside use. All of the options are very modern, stylish, and attractive. Many of the options are even portable so you can move it to any gathering in the yard. Using a gel fuel fireplace outside is also convenient because you don’t have to worry about constantly tending your fire to keep it going. Just keep a supply of gel fuel handy and if your fire starts to dwindle, replace a can. Easy as that!

Whatever reason for choosing a gel fuel fireplace, you’re going to love the convenience and portability it allows.

Fireplace Heater Systems – Product Reviews

2009-04-30T16:25:00.001-04:00

At this point, you’ve gone through all of your options and decided that a fireplace heater system is going to benefit your home but you’re probably not sure of which one to go with. The truth is, there are many options and quite a few of them will probably work for you, so you have to take some time to do some research and decide which one would be best for you. Lucky for you, we’ve put together a quick review of each of the most popular heater systems so that you can get all the information you need in one place.

Cozy Grate Fireplace Heater
Specifically designed for easy installation inside the firebox, this high quality fireplace heater system is a great choice for wood burning fireplaces, and has a blower that fits inside the firebox so that you can still close your fireplace doors when you’ve finished burning. This heater system can replace your current standard steel grate and comes in three different depths, 17” deep, 20” deep, or 22” deep, at no additional charge. For convenient installation, you can also choose which side you want the blower on, making it easy to plug in to the nearest outlet. Continually controlled by a thermostat, this intuitive heater system collects air and heats it until 110° so it won’t blow out cool air. A dialable rheostat controls how much air is blowing through the tubes at any given time. Although the blower box is housed inside the firebox, there is no concern for it to combust because it is contained in an insulated, protected box and the unit is completely self cooling.

Fireplace Gas Log Heater
Another remarkable, high quality grate, the Fireplace Gas Log Heater is made to work with gas or wood burning fireplaces. Specifically designed to fit completely into the firebox including the blower, this heater system will replace your grate and comes in four size/electrical outlet location options. The variable speed blower is equipped with a thermostat control that turns on automatically at 110F and off at 90F.
Emberaire Wood and Gas Log Fireplace Heater
The Emberaire heater system is designed to work with both gas and wood burning fireplace units. The flexible tube can go underneath or on top of your existing grate, or you can use it as a grate if you’d prefer. It can be used it while burning wood by simply laying the titanium alloy exchanger tube on your fireplace grate, in the fire or when using with a gas fireplace, simply use the tube as a replacement for your back gas log. The titanium alloy tube is incredibly durable and is designed to withstand intense temperatures.

Spitfire Fireplace Heater
Unique in the possibility of customization, the Spitfire fireplace heater can be modified to fit just about any firebox or fuel type. Constructed of aluminized steel, the metal framing height can be adjusted to accommodate special heights and though designed to be wood burning, it can be modified to be used with gas burning fireplaces. You’d obviously want to talk to a professional about anything like this, as it can be complicated. The blower sits outside the firebox so you won’t be able to close your fireplace glass doors if you have them.

Zero-Clearance Fireplace Heater
Designed specifically for pre-fab and zero-clearance fireplaces, the Zero-Clearance Fireplace Heaters are usually smaller than traditional masonry fireplaces and require a special size. The heavy duty steel tubes serve as a fireplace grate so you can simply build your fire directly on the tubes.

Masonry Fireplace Heaters
These tube systems are one of the best performers available and can be purchased with or without a blower, the amount of heat pushed into the room is better than any other heater system. The framing can be adjusted a no charge or extensions added at an additional cost so the heater system can sit deeper inside the firebox. Additional light duty flex tubes are also available for extending the blower further out if you have a deep firebox.

Fireplace Radiator
Constructed of heavy duty cast iron, the Fireplace Radiator is built to last. It has a built in cast iron fireback to assist at radiating heat and takes the place of a grate. The blower motor, left or right handed, sits outside the firebox and draws cool air from the room into the heat chamber. The heat chamber, which is constructed with heavy duty cast iron, superheats the air which is then pushed back into the home with the assistance of the blower. This blower moves the hot air back into the home at up to 180 cubic feet per minute, but because it pushes so much air it can get a bit noisy.

Fireplace Heater Systems – General Overview

2009-04-23T12:32:00.001-04:00

Chances are if you have a fireplace you have considered finding some way to get more of that hot air into your room. Fireplace heater systems are designed to do just that. When combined with a fireplace glass door, it can keep that valuable hot air from escaping up your chimney. Doing so can save a significant amount of money on heating costs and keep the family a bit cozier throughout the colder seasons. Not to mention you’ll have a great peace of mind knowing your fireplace is working for you, not against you. Fireplace heater systems are made for fireplaces with or without doors, for gas or wood burning fireplaces, and there are pros and cons to each one. You’ll want to take each of them into consideration to find one that’s best for you.

The first thing to consider is the type of fireplace you have. Not all fireplace heater systems will work with every fuel type or with or without doors. If your fireplace burns wood then you will need to narrow your choices down to the Cozy Grate Fireplace Heater, Emberaire Wood and Gas Log Fireplace Heater, Spitfire Fireplace Heater, any Tube Heater System, or Fireplace Radiator. Fireplaces that use gas can use the Fireplace Gas Log Heater, Emberaire Wood and Gas Log Fireplace Heater, or if you like the Spitfire Fireplace Heater it can be modified to be used with gas, although it is built to be a wood burner. Some fireplace heater systems are designed to be used with fireplace glass doors, basically they can be hidden inside the fireplace and the doors closed when not in use. You can always have doors and use a fireplace heater system but you may have to leave the doors permanently open to accommodate tubes or a blower. The Fireplace Radiator, Cozy Grate Fireplace Heater, Fireplace Gas Log Heater, and Emberaire can all be used with doors - just be sure to have them open when you have a fire going.

There are a few options you may also want to consider when purchasing a heater system for your fireplace. Many heater systems are available with or without a blower and some come standard with a blower. A blower is intended to force heater air into the room. Essentially, you will get the same volume of heat but it will come out with a greater force than a heater system alone. If the heater system you choose has a motor it will need to be plugged in, so you’ll want to choose a left or right sided motor based on the side closest to an outlet so it can be conveniently plugged in. Many of the heater systems also act as a grate allowing you to eliminate a standard iron grate in your fireplace.

If there isn’t a stock model to fit your needs, custom options are often available. Some fireplaces require a custom size because they have a wider opening than a standard fireplace would.

If you are weighing your options and can’t decide between a fireplace insert and a heater system and maybe a new fireplace glass door, it might help to know that on average it’s much cheaper to buy a brand new door and heater system than to put in a fireplace insert. You’ll encounter significant savings on a heater system because it’s a do it yourself project as opposed to needing to hire someone to install an insert. While a fireplace insert could cost around $4,000 just for the product, not including installation; you could easily get a fireplace heater system and door for around $1,000 depending on your specifications.

Whatever your reason for choosing a fireplace heater system, it will likely save a significant amount of money while ultimately providing you with additional heat output.

Woodhaven Firewood Rack - Product Review

2009-04-22T13:46:00.003-04:00

Are you sick and tired of having your outdoor firewood rack rusting whenever the temperature drops or rains? Look no further! The Woodhaven Firewood Rack is a top of the line rack that is made right here in the U.S.A. The Woodhaven is a very sturdy, heavy duty rack. The structure is made from 16 gauge steel and all of the nuts and bolts are made of stainless steel – which means that not one aspect of the rack will rust.

The Woodhaven Firewood Rack has a powder coat finish that is available in a black, baked on powder coat finish. Not only is this one of the best finishes available, but it is also environmentally friendly as well. Another perk of the Woodhaven Firewood Rack is its easy assembly.

There are a number of different sizes available in the Woodhaven Firewood Rack and two different color covers: black and brown. The covers are made from a top quality, coated canvas that has velcro located on the front and side of the rack for quick access to your firewood. The standard cover that arrives with the rack covers the top 12 inches of the wood – which keeps the top of the wood dry and ready to burn, and allows for cross ventilation. However, there is a full cover available at an additional cost. This is often recommended for people that live in areas with extreme weather.

It is also important that you properly “cure” your firewood by using a wood rack. Drying it out will help prevent any mildew growth and decrease harmful creosote buildup in your chimney. Overtime, creosote buildup can ignite and cause a major fire.

The Woodhaven Firewood Rack is built to provide a lifetime of service, and comes with a lifetime warranty. When you purchase a Woodhaven Firewood Rack, you are buying the last firewood rack you will ever need!

4 Tips for Fireplace Efficiency

2008-12-16T13:13:00.001-05:00

The fireplace has long been a favorite place for families to gather around in their homes. A place for warmth, the fireplace adds ambiance, sparking memories that are to be treasured. With all the benefits that a fireplace can bring, there are some major downsides that if not addressed can cause a love for the fireplace to wane.

With soaring energy costs, the biggest issue with having a fireplace is its inefficiency. When there's a fire burning, the fireplace does indeed radiate warmth in its general vicinity, but it also creates a convection current that can actually pull conditioned air out of the room and up the chimney. This causes your furnace to work in overtime. When the fire is not burning, the fireplace has a damper which is supposed to block inside air from escaping and outside air from invading. The problem is that the damper is usually made of metal and has no seal, which means that the damper is incredibly inefficient.

Your home has a dirty little secret – the fireplace that is designed to warm your house is actually doing the opposite and costing you hundreds of dollars in energy costs. Don’t fret – with a little investment of time and money, you can turn that inefficient fireplace into a powerhouse heater that will reduce your energy bills and add even more charm to your existing fireplace.

The following is a list of 4 things that you can do yourself to drastically reduce the heating costs
associated with the inefficiency of your fireplace:

1. Top Sealing Dampers replace the fireplace throat damper and are installed at the top of the chimney. The top sealing damper has a seal that acts like a storm door keeping the expensive conditioned air inside the house and the outside air – outside. This principle works year round, whether you’re heating or cooling your house. This product can be purchased online and is easily installed by either a homeowner or a handyman.

2. A Fireback is a cast iron plate that is placed at the back of your fireplace. Its purpose is to protect the back wall from fire damage and usually features a design that adds to the homes decor. The fireback improves the fireplaces efficiency by absorbing the heat from the fire and radiating the heat back into the room.

3. A Fireplace Heater pulls fresh air from the room, circulates it through a chamber that is heated by the fire and then blows the heated air back into the room. These heaters are closed systems so no smoke from the fireplace is invading the home. Depending on which kind you purchase, these heaters can make a significant difference in your homes temperature, even heating a full room on its own. Specific fireplace heaters can be installed with fireplace glass doors which will kick your cost savings up another notch.

4. Fireplace Glass Doors will likely carry the largest investment, but you can reduce some of that cost by doing some of the work yourself. There are a number of fireplace doors that can be purchased online and come with easy to install instructions. The fireplace glass door creates a barrier between the living space and the chimney, thus reducing the area that your furnace will have to heat. This alone is a good reason to install these doors, but it’s not the only reason.

Fireplace glass doors offer another level of safety for the home by protecting children and pets from the fire. If you have a wood burning fireplace you will want to purchase the screen mesh that is designed to go with the fireplace glass doors. This will allow you to have the doors open while the fire is burning and still have your home protected from sparks and embers. Fireplace glass doors are now being manufactured with modern designs and really add beauty and charm to the fireplace.

If you’re handy, all of these suggestions are easy to accomplish. In addition, all of the products, while difficult to find locally, can easily be purchased online. If you’re concerned about high energy costs but you want to keep your fireplace, then it’s time to plug up the holes in your monthly energy budget by plugging up the holes in your fireplace.

This blog entry is under construction.

2008-12-14T20:48:00.006-05:00

This blog entry is under construction.

The Powder Coat Finish

2008-12-11T19:03:00.008-05:00

From what you may have seen in the past, many fireplace and chimney products tend to lose their shine after just a few years. The culprit? A bad paint job. Many fireplace and chimney products are made of steel or iron; which left to itself, will eventually rust. The exception to that rule would be stainless steel which is a type of steel used for some chimney caps and radiant firebacks.

Recent innovations in the finish industry have greatly improved the quality and durability of the finish many of these products receive. The latest innovation; the Powder Coat Finish.

A Powder Coat Finish is an extremely high quality finish that uses electricity to solidify the painting process. First, a manufacturer will take the product and apply an electrostatic charge to finely ground particles of pigment and resin. Then, the pigment and resin is sprayed onto the product. The product will be electrically grounded so that the charged particles will adhere to it. The product is then placed within a curing oven where the powder melts and fuses into a solid coating. The result is an attractive, durable, high quality finish.

You can look for the Powder Coat Finish on fireplace products such as, fireplace glass doors, fireplace tools, outdoor log racks and fireplace screens. Even custom chimney caps can receive a Powder Coat Finish.

The Powder Coat Finish has greatly increased the quality of hearth related products which means your investment in these products will survive for years to come, even to the next generation.

Fireplace Screens - Adding Charm to Your Home with a Classic Accessory

2008-12-11T18:51:00.005-05:00

Today's fireplace has evolved from a necessity to a luxury. However, there is one aspect of the fireplace will never change. The fireplace has a powerful visual presence in any room. It is almost always the visual centerpiece of a room.

Tool sets, wood holders, and other fireplace accessories are essential visual components of a fireplace. While some prefer glass doors, others choose a more traditional look with fireplace screens or spark guards. These fireplace opening treatments aren’t just for traditional décor, many styles are being incorporated into modern interiors with stunning results.

There are three basic varieties of screens: operable door screens, single panel screens, and folding screens. As the name suggests, operable door units include a hinged door inside the frame which allows easy, convenient access to the fire box without having to move the entire screen. A single panel unit can be a picture frame like design, or a three dimensional spark guard, sometimes these are referred to as spark arrestors because they sit flush against an opening covering every possible exit for a rogue ember from a crackling fire. The folding screens come in various widths and designs and can be found in 3,4, and even very wide 5 panel varieties.

While there are many standard sized options, some situations require that a screen be custom fabricated. While these cost a bit more, a unique size or architectural feature of a fireplace often requires a specific height, width, or depth that is not available in a standard size.

Updating and Upgrading Your Fireplace

2008-12-11T18:28:00.009-05:00

No matter which of the four seasons you are enjoying, it just so happens that winter is always right around the corner. There is never a bad time for you to update or upgrade your fireplace.

What can you do to update your fireplace? Many older fireplaces were designed with good intentions, but are incredibly energy-inefficient. When many older homes were built, some important safety features that are standard on new fireplaces today were left out. The following is a short list of ‘updates’ that can be made to greatly improve the efficiency and safety of your fireplace.

1. If you have a wood burning fireplace, update it with a screen mesh curtain to protect your home from sparks and embers. A fireplace screen curtain can be purchased online and installed within a few short minutes.

2. If you have children, consider installing fireplace glass doors. These doors are solidly built and will protect your children and pets from the fire. In addition, simply adding fireplace doors will increase your home’s efficiency by creating a barrier between the conditioned air inside the home and the unconditioned air in the chimney. Many areas (especially California) are requiring homeowners to update their fireplaces with fireplace glass doors before a home can be sold.

3. If you’re still depending on your fireplace throat damper to keep the conditioned air inside your home, don’t wait to install a Top Sealing Chimney Cap Damper to the top of your chimney.
The fireplace throat damper is a metal plate located in the flue; it is designed to be opened during a fire and closed after the fire is completely out. Its purpose is to keep the outside air outside—however, this metal plate has no seal and is notoriously leaky. A simple solution is to install a Top Sealing Damper to your chimney. These dampers use updated technology to create an air-tight seal at the top of your chimney. The product can be purchased online and installed in about an hour by either a professional chimney sweep or the homeowner. A Top Sealing Damper in conjunction with fireplace glass doors will significantly increase your home’s efficiency.

What if your fireplace is already sufficiently updated and energy-efficient? How about an upgrade?

Many people incorrectly believe that the fireplace heats the home. In fact, the fireplace is probably making your home colder and making your furnace work harder, since a fire feeds off of the air in your living space. If you want to harness the power of your fireplace, consider upgrading your fireplace by installing a fireplace heater. These heaters use an electric blower to pull air into the unit, where it is heated and blown back into the room. These units can be purchased online and easily installed by the homeowner. They come in a variety of designs for different applications and typically range in price of about $400 to $600. You should consult an online expert to make sure you purchase the right heater for your fireplace.

A quick fireplace update and an upgrade will keep you ahead of surging energy costs this winter. No matter the season, it is always a good time to tackle the project..

Finding the Perfect Address Plaque

2008-12-04T11:36:00.004-05:00

I’ve always wondered what it is that makes a house truly special. The size? The location? The paint colors or the architecture? To be honest, I don’t believe that it’s any of these things. I’ve been in homes large and small, simple and extravagant, and there are those that just possess that certain something. Well, having just finished building a house with my husband, I’ve come to believe that a home is not complete without the little details – small, personal things – that make it truly special.

I experienced this “a ha!” moment when, prior to moving in, I set off to find a way to creatively display our house numbers. A shopping trip to the local hardware store turned up some iridescent address stickers – in hunter orange and industrial stark black and white – along with a few wooden numbers. Shaking my head, I returned home to see if I could find something a little better. Luckily, an internet search revealed exactly what I’d been picturing: customizable address plaques in more colors, designs, and configurations than I’d imagined. At first, the Traditional Plaque Collection caught my attention – I knew that their rich, true colors and distinguished type would complement any house. I hesitated, unable to choose between the marquee-inspired Egg and Dart Marker and the slightly nautical Cape Charles Marker. I found the Decorative Plaques elaborate and intricate and completely charming, too – the Monogram Marker was a definite favorite. After all, how much more personalized can you get? The handsome Vertical Plaques reminded me of something I might see on a European townhouse: the Windsor Vertical Plaque struck me as such a creative way to display a single-digit house number! And before leaving the Oval Plaque category, I bookmarked the simple Date Plaque as a personalized piece I could imagine giving as a treasured housewarming gift (in fact, I was tempted to purchase it for our own home).

A quick search through the Specialty Plaques revealed several more unique gift ideas – I bookmarked the Grill Hawthorne Plaque for my father-in-law, the self-proclaimed “BBQ King”, and the Dove Wedding Plaque for my bride-to-be cousin. Soon, I found myself exploring the other Outdoor Marker categories. The Garden Signs were just delightful, and the Mailbox Signs and Ornaments were a unique idea I’d never thought of before. Could it be that these were the things that could give a home that personal feeling – the atmosphere that I had been looking for?

I hadn’t yet found the perfect personalized address plaque for our new home, though. It couldn’t be too ornate (my husband’s criteria) but it had to fit my theme of classic rustic décor. A quick glance back through revealed the Providence Artisan Metal Plaque – a piece I had missed before amid the dozens of lovely offerings. Rugged, trendy, yet classic, too, this plaque was simple enough to earn my husband’s approval yet personal enough to fit the look of our new home. Once personalized with our house numbers, it would be perfect. And I would be one step closer to creating in our house that particular feeling of home.

Blue Rooster Chimineas

2008-12-03T10:47:00.006-05:00

When shopping for a chiminea, it is possible to become a little overwhelmed. What color, size, material, or manufacturer is the best choice for you? Do you have a spacious backyard or a small patio? Will you use your chiminea frequently or just once in a while? These are issues that should be considered when purchasing any outdoor fireplace unit.

Before a decision can be made, consider the reputation of the company that you will do business with. One great company is the Blue Rooster Company. Based in Minnesota, they are a designer, builder, and manufacturer of high quality outdoor chimineas. They have been in business for over 10 years. With that decade of experience, Blue Rooster takes pride in the solid construction and attention to detail in every chiminea that they manufacture.

Everyone knows that a knock-off is not the same as the real deal. There are products that are made to look similar to those of the Blue Rooster Company. Although their products’ looks may be duplicated by other companies, their manufacturing quality cannot be. If you see a similar design, check to make sure it is a Blue Rooster Company product.

Take for instance the Blue Rooster Grape Chiminea. This is a popular mold and if you are shopping for this design you will see that there are a number of other manufacturers that have a similar chiminea. If you want the Blue Rooster quality, make sure that the Grape Style Chiminea you are considering is indeed made by the Blue Rooster Company.

When you do make that final decision, don’t forget to purchase a fire resistant chiminea pad. They will help protect your deck or patio material from wayward sparks or embers.

Weathervane Care and Maintenance

2008-12-02T11:31:00.008-05:00

Weathervanes are the perfect addition to any outdoor space; not only are they attractive, but they are extremely durable and require little to no maintenance. Caring for a weathervane can be surprisingly easy and virtually maintenance free.

The correct way in which to care for your weathervane greatly depends on its construction materials. Generally, weathervanes are constructed of rust free, weather resistant materials such as copper or cast aluminum.

Polished Copper:
Polished copper weathervanes are not treated and, as a result, within a few months it will begin to naturally tarnish, like a copper penny. Eventually, the surface will begin to change to a beautiful and natural patina. If this is not a look you desire, you can use a clear lacquer or polyurethane to protect and maintain the polished finish.

For basic cleaning simply use a mild soap and water – other cleaners are not necessary. Copper will naturally patina over time and develop a warm medium color. Unless you want to maintain a shiny copper finish, do not use copper cleaners. Do not use abrasive materials or harsh chemicals as these can harm the surface. Decorative items should be kept clean and dusted. Copper is sensitive to air, and oxidizes (tarnishes) faster in moist air. Coating with lacquer, such as StayBrite Copper and Brass Polish, helps preserve the finish.

Blue Verde (Verdigris):

These darker finishes have gone through an “accelerated patina” process and will not change much more relative to the lighter finishes. In this case, an artificial finish is applied to give the weathervane the appearance of an antique. This finish will maintain its color, as it has already oxidized, and requires little maintenance. Should you wish to clean the product, do so using mild soap and water only to prevent removal of the decorative blue-green patina finish.

Cast Aluminum:

Cast aluminum weathervanes are constructed of solid aluminum and coated with paints that have been specially formulated and weather tested to withstand the harshest elements. Minimal cleaning and maintenance are required. Cast aluminum is constructed to last and will stand the test of time. Clean using mild soap and warm water and dry completely.

Arbors and Trellises

2008-12-02T10:15:00.004-05:00

Today you will find a wide variety of outdoor products designed for any outdoor space. Arbors have served many purposes in our gardens by offering a place of shade and rest on a hot sunny day, acting as a strong climbing support for many vines, and serving as a separator between the outside world and our gardens.

Just the act of walking under a well chosen arbor can help relieve the stresses of our busy lives. The arbor serves as a visible boundary between the noise and distractions of the world and the peace and tranquility of our gardens. A fence around your garden may be too restrictive in purpose and too harsh in look. In contrast, an arbor sets a boundary for your garden without breaking up the natural landscape.

Of all the outdoor items available, arbors have one of the most interesting histories. Arbors have long been used to provide shade along a garden path. From the noblemen’s estate in medieval England to the grape vineries of modern day France, arbors were often seen overgrown with vines whose leaves provide shade from the sun and even protection from the rain. Arbors provide protection from nature while still allowing you to enjoy the many facets of its beauty.

The need to find a perfect arbor can be easily satisfied with one of the wide variety of options that are available. Today there are many artistic styles of arbors and numerous materials they can be made of, such as: wood, steel, and vinyl. Wood Arbors provide the most traditional and natural feel. Steel Arbors offer a modern, exquisite man-made element to contrast with the natural beauty of a garden. Vinyl Arbors supply the traditional look of wood without the maintenance.

One vinyl arbor that stands out is the Wellington Arbor. Designed in the tradition of renowned American architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the Wellington Arbor's use of right angles and straight beams speak of the Wright's clean style and his love of cantilevers. If planted with vines this arbor provides a symmetric and orderly contrast to their natural rambling. If not planted, the Wellington Arbors own beauty will be clearly highlighted. Either way, the Wellington Arbor will be a great addition to any garden.

Many arbors come with an assortment of accessories. You may find that a simple arbor doesn’t have the commanding presence you are looking for. If that’s the case then adding wings or a gate to your arbor may strengthen its position in your garden.

San Simeon Outdoor Fire Pit Table Review

2008-12-02T09:49:00.007-05:00

The latest trend in home décor is utilizing the space right outside your back door- specifically with the use of outdoor fireplaces. These can be as simple as common wood burning fire pits or as grand as full scale fireplaces. Outdoor fire pit tables offer a consumer a wide variety of ways to enjoy their time in their very own backyard. Many come with options of grill, ice bucket, and removable center inserts. For those who want something different from the standard log system, fire glass crystals may be available for the look of a glowing jeweled fire.

One such table is the San Simeon Outdoor Fire Pit Table. This table comes standard with a 1.25” thick granite table top and powder coat finish base. The weather resistant, easy to maintain 48” round table top is available in three color choices- pebble, sea green, and sunset gold. The sturdy base keeps the table level with no sagging. The color options of chocolate brown, sage, black, and adobe are in a powder coated finish which ensures a long, tarnish-free life of the base. Individualize the purchase by choosing a color combination that will complement your outdoor home decor.

The San Simeon Outdoor Fire Pit Table can be used with natural gas or liquid propane. It comes standard with gas logs and a stainless steel burner. This table can be customized with the optional features when ordering. Along with a stainless steel grill, stainless steel ice bucket, fire glass crystals, and removable center insert, is the option to purchase a vinyl insulated cover. To further preserve the original beauty of the granite top, a customer care package is included, which provides information on periodic cleaning.

This table is one of the nicest looking outdoor fire pit tables on the market. It comes with simple step-by-step instructions for easy set up and a one year warranty. So sit around a dancing fire as you enjoy a beautiful night of relaxation or a pleasant evening socializing with friends and family.