Get matched with top fireplace pros in Fowler, KS

Yes, burning wood with Dutch elm disease is a safer way to dispose of it than, say, tossing it in with the rest of your yard waste, which could potentially allow it to spread to healthy trees. But it’s always a good idea to check with your local government to make sure you’re complying with any ordinances about removing diseased trees as well as burning brush piles.

A fireplace can increase a home's value by as much as 12%, with some reports indicating that homes with fireplaces list for around 13% more than the median sale price. Fireplaces are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, adding a charm that many homebuyers find desirable. The actual return on investment depends on the fireplace's size, type, and material.

However, a fireplace can detract from a property's value if it is unusable, not up to code, or in need of immediate repairs. The type of fireplace also matters; custom electric fireplaces and inserts can add value, while freestanding units that can be removed have less impact.

You can control the flame on a pellet stove by using a damper, often located on the back of the pellet stove. While the damper function varies by model, you can open the damper slightly to let in more air or close it slightly to provide less oxygen, with the ultimate goal of providing a steady flame.

A fireplace that doesn’t require a chimney is simply called a chimneyless fireplace. Don’t confuse these with ventless fireplaces, however. There are some fireplaces that require ventilation via a system of pipes, not a chimney. More specifically, the fireplace in question will likely be called by its name, such as electric, ethanol, or balanced flue.