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Did you recently purchase and install a new fireplace? Then you're on your way to enjoying warm, cozy evenings next to the fire with your family.
You can make your fireplace experiences even more enjoyable with the following tips.
How To Make Kindling
If you have a gas log fireplace, there's no need to worry about lighting the fire. Just flip the switch! But if your new fireplace burns wood, you will need some kindling to get things going.
Making kindling is a breeze with a straight-claw hammer. Just turn the log on one side with one of the cut ends up. Hit the top of the log with the edge of the hammer.
The kindling will come off the side in no time and you'll have everything you need to start your fire.
Preheat The Flue
The chimney of the wood-burning fireplace is, obviously, a key part of the process. But you can make the fire last longer by preheating your flue.
The flue is the part of the chimney where cold air may be trapped when the fireplace isn't used. The cold air makes it harder to get the fire going because it can flow down the chimney to the fire. Waste air can't rise and fresh air can't get to your fire.
So, you can preheat the flue with these steps:
● Open the damper.
● Roll up a piece of newspaper and light an end of it.
● Hold the newspaper in your chimney to warm the air so it rises.
● Or, use a blow dryer on the hot setting and blow it up the chimney.
● Start the fire as you normally do.
Only Use Dry Wood
It's important to only burn dry wood in your fireplace. If it contains any moisture, it will produce more smoke, which may enter the home. Plus, smoky fires will deposit more creosote in the chimney, which is a fire hazard if it builds up over the years.
When you purchase firewood, make sure that it has been properly seasoned so it's completely dry before you burn it. Seasoned firewood has been dried for several months so it contains less than 20% moisture.
Firewood is typically dried for at least six months before it can be cleanly burned in a fireplace. If you cut your own wood, split the logs into small pieces so it dries faster.
Also, it's best to use hardwoods such as maple, oak, and birch. Avoid softer woods such as pine or cedar.
Where To Put Firewood
A firewood rack is a fine way to store wood. But if you want to save money for the time being, just use a couple of ceramic flowerpots to hold wood and kindling. They're inexpensive, and many designs and colors are available to match your decor.
How To Put Out A Fire
If you want to hit the sack but the fire is still burning, you can put it out with water, but it will make a mess.
A simple way to put out the fire fast is to throw a handful of salt over whatever is still burning. The salt will make the fire go out and there will be less soot than if you let it burn out on its own.
Hire A Chimney Sweep
Burning firewood is wonderful, but you should have a chimney sweep inspect the chimney every year, at least. Have them check the chimney more often if you see creosote building up.
It is recommended to have your chimney cleaned and swept out every year to avoid safety and health hazards.
Having a wood-burning fireplace adds to the appeal and ambiance of the home. If you try some of these fireplace tips, you'll get years of enjoyment out of this valuable home addition.
