Blog
How to Avoid Poisoning by Carbon Monoxide, the “Silent Killer”
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a killer that claims the lives of more 500 people in the United States every year. Known as the “Silent Killer” because it is odorless and invisible, CO is the number... Read more
What is Chimney Relining, and is it Necessary?
All chimneys today are supposed to be lined, either with clay tile, a cast-in-place flue, or a metal liner, by dictate of building codes. Perhaps with the exception of stainless steel liners, all of these... Read more
Ten Top Reasons a Fire Won’t Ignite in a Fireplace – Pt 2
There are many different components to a fireplace and chimney, and many different issues can potentially go wrong. When a fire won’t start or stay lit in your fireplace, it’s an indication that there’s a... Read more
Ten Top Reasons a Fire Won’t Ignite in a Fireplace – Pt 1
It’s still snowy in Connecticut, offering more opportunities to enjoy your fireplace before warm weather sets in. But if you try to light your fireplace and it won’t start, there could be many possible causes. ... Read more
Why NCSG and CSIA Certifications Should Matter to Homeowners
When you are choosing a company to provide chimney or venting services, the best way to discern which company is best is by learning which is a NCSG member and has CSIA certified chimney sweeps.... Read more
Winter Chimney Care: Chimneys vs. Winter Ice and Snow
This Connecticut winter has had no shortage of freezing and thawing cycles, snow on rooftops, and resulting damage to chimneys. Yet many people overlook the need for maintenance of their chimneys. The fact is that... Read more
What Types of Creosote are in Your Chimney?
Some form of creosote is produced anytime you burn wood in your fireplace. Creosote, tar, and soot are byproducts of wood burning and the mix of the three components is typically called creosote. There are... Read more
What’s Different about Factory-Built Fireplaces, as Compared with Masonry Fireplaces?
It’s possible to enjoy virtually all the pleasures and benefits of a fireplace, even if there is no chimney in your home. In the absence of a masonry fireplace, you can install a factory-built fireplace.... Read more
Tips for Choosing the Firewood You Really Want
Determining which firewood is the best for you depends upon your particular needs or your preferences. You may like a fire which produces a pleasant aroma, crackles and pops, is highly efficient, or burns most... Read more
Tips for Greater Fireplace Efficiency
As pleasant as it is to enjoy a warm fire, the percentage of homes which depend upon a fireplace or wood stove to heat their home went from 90% in the early 20th century to... Read more