With summer coming to an end and fall just around the corner, many homeowners find themselves looking for ways to update their home fireplace and chimney. There’s no denying that warming up by a cozy fire is an ideal way to spend a crisp fall evening, but your system needs to be in tip-top shape in order for your household to get the most from the experience.
So, as you start thinking about cozy sweaters, hot cocoa, and warm fires, start also thinking of fireplace update options to make your home more comfortable when the weather turns cold. Then, turn to us! Owens Chimney Systems is here to help you every step of the way.
But First… Schedule Your Inspection & Sweeping
Annual inspections enable sweeps to assess the condition of your fireplace and chimney and determine whether or not it needs to be repaired. There could be hidden dangers or hazards present that would make your system unsuitable for use, and if excess creosote is present, you’ll need to get a sweeping scheduled too. Neglecting this care could up your risk of experiencing a chimney fire or gas leak.
Don’t wait – follow Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommendations and book an inspection before every burn season. Our professionals have the knowledge, training, and experience to ensure nothing gets missed.
Upgrades & Updates to Improve Your Fireplace
Once your inspection is done, it’s time for the fun part. Ready to improve your space? We’ve got ideas.
✓ Invest in a New Appliance
There are various ways to upgrade your fireplace, but if you’re looking to make a big change, then investing in a new appliance may be your best option.
We make fuel conversations and updates easier than ever, and a new system can help you save money on monthly energy payments over time too. By using a high-efficiency gas or wood-burning fireplace, you can burn fuel economically and efficiently. Plus, modern fireplaces are environmentally-friendly and have optimal heat performance.
Stoves, fireplaces, and gas logs are available in a variety of styles and sizes, so you can find one that fits well with your home aesthetics, no problem. Reach out today to figure out which appliance and fuel type would be best suited to your needs.
✓ Upgrade Your Damper or Chimney Cap
A damper is the metal plate that controls airflow through a wood-burning fireplace’s chimney. Over the years, a traditional throat damper tend to warp or lose its tight seal. If you feel like there is unwanted air coming in from your fireplace (or conditioned or heated air escaping out) you should replace the old damper with a top-sealing option. They are known for sealing tightly at the top of the flue, offering heightened efficiency and optimal protection.
You can also have a new chimney cap installed. There are many different types of chimney caps on the market, in a range of sizes, styles, and colors. Our pros can help you find the right fit for your space.
✓ Add Some Chimney Extras
There are several chimney extras you can add to your fireplace to make it work more efficiently and look extra appealing. One good example is a fireback – a cast iron or stainless steel piece mounted in the back of the firebox. This helps protect the wall in the back of the firebox, while also redirecting heat back into your room (instead of sending it all up the chimney).
Besides a fireback, you can also install a smoke guard or hood. Smoke in your space isn’t good for your fireplace, your living space, or the health of those living it. Smoke guards create a smaller fireplace opening, which then helps prevent harmful smoke from making its way into your home.
✓ Have a New Liner Installed
Chimney liners are one of the most crucial elements for a safe and functional fireplace or stove. Liners are essential for efficiently guiding smoke and flue gases out of the firebox and through the chimney, and they protect your home and masonry from heat, flames, and hazardous gases.
You’ll need a new liner if your chimney interior is defective or if your liner is missing altogether – this is the case for older homes sometimes.
✓ Install Fireplace Glass Doors
If you are currently using an open fireplace and don’t want to upgrade to a new stove or insert, adding glass doors is a good option. They are appropriate for masonry fireplaces, zero-clearance gas fireplaces, wood fireplaces, and more. Glass doors can help contain the ash and logs inside the firebox – while adding style to your space. They also aid in reducing heat loss when the fireplace is not in use.
In addition to glass doors, you may opt to add a metal mesh screen in front of the firebox opening. These can be pulled closed when the fire is burning to keep sparks and embers from shooting out of the fireplace. This practical fireplace update protects your furniture, carpet, and curtains, while still allowing heat to get through the room.
Upgrade Your Fireplace With the Help of Owens Chimney Systems
There’s nothing better than cozying up near a fireplace on a cold day. Gain peace of mind and guarantee a better and safer fireplace experience this winter by counting on us for your fireplace and chimney needs. Call or start an appointment online today.