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We're often asked about installing or renovating fireplaces in bedrooms. Here in Richmond, Virginia it is a controversial issue as building inspectors sometimes don't like the idea due to safety concerns.

Please be assured that we, too, feel that safety is the utmost concern with any fire. However, we also appreciate a homeowner's desire to install or restore a bedroom fireplace for the warmth, charm and romance a fire offers. A fireplace can be as safe in a bedroom as in any other room...

Smoke stains above this fireplace are proof of a smoking problem. Some detective work is sometimes needed to determine the cause of the problem before it can be fixed. Soot stains are CARBON particles. If you have soot stains inside your home, you have also had CARBON MONOXIDE fumes in your home. Soot stains are not only unsightly they indicate air in your home has been exposed to dangerous fumes. Take care of this problem (which may not be caused by your fireplace) before using it again. Soo...

Picture how your fireplace will be used. You've probably already got a location in mind, but the practicality of the location may be affected by venting needs, installation clearance requirements and fuel choices.

Part 1: GREAT EXPECTATIONS

First, why are you installing a fireplace? Is is for recreational use and entertaining? Is it serving as a backup emergency heating system? Supplemental heat for a chilly room? Is it simply a decorative element to enhance your decor? Fireplaces...

Suggested Uses for Gas Logs

Vented gas logs are designed to mimic a wood burning fire in an open fireplace, offering the same realism in both looks and performance they're best chosen simply for decoration and ambience.

Vented Gas Logs are not meant to heat your home - they are designed as a substitute for an open burning wood fire. Vent-free appliances of any kind - including vent-free logs - are designed to be used for short periods of time as a supplemental source of heat. Sinc...

The internet is a vast source of information for purchasing fireplaces, stoves and related hearth products. Some shoppers use the internet simply for research, while others move to the next step and make a purchase online from a local or national company. The internet gives you the ability to educate yourself about the products available for your needs, narrowing your search and focusing your choices.

Manufacturers of fireplaces and products can be a great source of information, and mos...

Chimneys are swept to remove residues in the chimney which can block the flue and prevent proper drafting, and to remove flammable deposits which can cause a chimney fire. All types of appliances which burn fuel and vent to the outdoors should be inspected annually and swept when needed such as:

Chimneys that need annual inspection

Fireplaces that burn wood or gas

Chimneys serving wood stoves

Water heater flues & furnace flues

Vented gas hearth products: gas fir...

Soot on your walls indicates a problem somewhere in your house, and you often don't notice soot until it's become a huge problem.

Most often, you move a picture on the wall and notice the telltale signs of soot. Upon closer inspection, you'll probably find stains on carpets, drapes and other home furnishings as well. Ductwork can pickup soot particles and quickly spread soot throughout your home, evidenced by soot stains around registers and embedded into your air intake or filter.

Long Used in Europe...

Electric fires are growing dramatically in popularity in the United States. All sizes, styles, colors and types of electric hearth products are now available including stoves that mimic a wood or coal burner, electric fireplaces complete with mantels, inserts to retrofit into an existing fireplaces and wall-mounted electric fires that require no floor space and offer a fun, contemporary style.

FLICKERING FLAMES

Technology continues to develop electric ...