Tips from the Pros
Are Chimney Caps Necessary?
Chimney caps are appliances that cover the top of a chimney, and they are designed to perform multiple functions. While there are definite benefits of a chimney cap, there are some problems that can arise with them. Preventing chimney leaks is the main benefit, and...
How often should you have chimney checked?
Chimneys are an important home feature—find out when to have them checked and why. Before you own or rent a home, you can never truly understand just how much goes into routine home maintenance. All of the little things you take for granted as a kid rush up to meet...
How Does a Chimney Sweep Work?
A clean chimney means a safer home. Using your fireplace causes buildup inside the chimney that if left untreated for too long, can cause fires and lead to more pollution. By scheduling regular cleaning with your chimney sweep in Roanoke, you can ensure a safer home...
What is the Difference Between a Chimney Crown and Chimney Cap?
Chimney crown? Chimney cap? What does it all mean? A significant number of homes have chimneys on them, but that doesn’t mean that most people are chimney experts. In fact, most people never really come into contact with their chimneys at all, which can make it...
Why Do You Need a Chimney Inspection?
Chimneys allow us to enjoy warm fires inside–find out why regular inspections are so important. Regular home inspections help homeowners to keep their homes nice and functional. These minor inspections can help you to get ahead of maintenance, identify problems early...
What Does a Chimney Sweep Do?
Chimney sweeps have been around for hundreds of years—what does the job look like today? Most people are used to hearing the term chimney sweep used in older films and books, which is why so many people are surprised to learn that chimney sweeps are still around...
What is a Stove Pipe
What is a Stove Pipe?IntroductionTrying to figure out what kind of pipe you need to install for your fireplace, stove, or any other venting hearth appliance can be a daunting task. The pipe needs to be a specific size in order to exhaust properly. You can’t mix...
What is a Pellet Vent Pipe
What is a Pellet Vent Pipe?IntroductionTrying to figure out what kind of pipe you need to install for your fireplace, stove, or any other venting hearth appliance can be a daunting task. The pipe needs to be a specific size in order to exhaust properly. You can’t mix...
What is a Direct Vent Pipe
What is a Direct Vent Chimney?IntroductionTrying to figure out what kind of pipe you need to install for your fireplace, stove, or any other venting hearth appliance can be a daunting task. The pipe needs to be a specific size in order to exhaust properly. You can’t...
What is a Class A Chimney
What is a Class A Chimney?IntroductionTrying to figure out what kind of pipe you need to install for your fireplace, stove, or any other venting hearth appliance can be a daunting task. The pipe needs to be a specific size in order to exhaust properly. You can’t mix...
A Simple Guide to British Thermal Units (BTUs)
A Simple Guide to British Thermal Units (BTUs) Introduction If you’ve ever shopped for an air conditioner or a heater, you’ve probably noticed the term BTU in the specifications. But what is a BTU? What does it stand for? How is it relevant? BTU stands for British...
How to Choose the Right Venting for Your Fireplace
How to Choose the Right Venting for Your FireplaceIntroductionChoosing the right venting components is critical for proper performance and safety. This rings true for whether you just bought a new fireplace, or you’re just needing to replace the pipe for an old unit...
Gas Fireplace Buying Guide
Gas Fireplace Buying GuideIntroduction Gas fireplaces and stoves are very popular these days. It makes sense too. It’s easier and usually cleaner to use gas instead of wood. Plus it’s a lot more convenient to call a company to come out to your house to fill the gas...
Five Common Mistakes Made by Fireplace Contractors
Five Common Mistakes Made by Fireplace CompaniesIntroductionInstalling a fireplace can be a daunting task, even when you know what you’re doing. The installation involves many aspects from different trades. If you’ve ever thought about having a new fireplace...
Ventless Gas Fireplace Buying Guide
Ventless Gas Fireplace Buying GuideIntroduction If you don’t want to worry about the hassle of cutting down trees, splitting wood, only to wait two years for it to be fully seasoned enough to use it, then you might want to take a look at ventless gas fireplaces. ...
Pellet Stove Buying Guide
Pellet Stove Buying Guide Introduction Just like any other heating appliance, choosing the right pellet stove to heat your home requires some research. You want to get one that looks right in your home. But you also want to make sure that you buy one that heats the...
Are Vent Free Fireplaces Dangerous?
Are Vent Free Fireplaces Dangerous? IntroductionVent-free heating appliances are one of the most interesting pieces of hearth inventions. Installing them doesn’t require venting to pass through a wall or through your roof. It’s neat because even without a venting...
How to Save Money on Your Heating Bill this Winter
How to Save Money on Your Heating Bill this Winter Introduction Winter is right around the corner. It certainly feels like it’s here though. Even in Southwestern Virginia, it’s time to pull out the heavy coats and sweaters to brave the winter. It’s also time we turn...