Did you know in Glasgow last December, 86 percent of properties with a fireplace sold? Fireplaces remain popular in the UK.
Consider installing a new fireplace in your home. However, to protect the stove’s lifespan, you will need to understand common maintenance tasks.
A well-maintained fireplace can end up saving you money on your utility bill. If you need to learn some fireplace-cleaning tips, keep reading.
This guide will teach you easy ways to keep your fireplace clean and in top shape. Cleaning out the excess ashes and using dry wood will help.
Check out more tips below.
1. Don’t Skip the Annual Inspection
Keeping your fireplace in good working order isn’t cleaning it.
You need to hire a professional inspector to come and clean the fireplace once a year. Find a local and licensed technician. No matter if you own a wood-burning or gas fireplace.
During the inspection, they will look for gas leaks if you own a gas fireplace. Some fireplaces will have a minor odor. But, if you have noticed a rotten smell, you might have a gas leak.
You also might need to replace worn-down parts in your fireplace. With a wood-burning fireplace, ensure the details remain operable. Gas fireplaces will often prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
2. What Firewood Do You Use?
When using a wood-burning fireplace, it’s critical to use suitable wood. Using wet wood will create creosote buildup, increasing the risk of a chimney fire. There are a few ways to prevent these issues.
When you store firewood, aim to keep it five feet from your house. This way, pests aren’t able to enter your home. Keep the wood off the ground to limit the risk of moisture.
The way you stack wood will help you have dryer wood. Lay the firewood bark side up to lessen moisture.
Aim to split the firewood before you stack it. Arrange the wood in alternating directions to improve ventilation across the stack.
3. Choosing the Right Cleaning Supplies
Pick the appropriate cleaning materials for your fireplace. Understand that your method depends on the fireplace. You’re not going to clean a marble fireplace the same way you would a brick fireplace.
Contact a local hardware store if you’re unsure of what kind of cleaning supplies to choose. They’ll tell you what supplies to buy.
If you had a specialty fireplace installed, contact your installer. You don’t want to ruin the aesthetic by using the wrong cleaner on it. For example, find the appropriate tools for an oak beam fireplace.
Keep Your Fireplace Clean
Protect your home by keeping your fireplace clean. Try to get your fireplace inspected annually. Make sure you find a local and licensed inspector.
For wood fireplaces, ensure you’re using dry wood. Teach family members or roommates how to stack the woodpile.
Need more helpful home tips like this guide? Browse the rest of our blog for more information.
