Get matched with top fireplace cleaning pros in Phillips, ME

Cracks in the chimney can be very serious, depending on their location and size. Even small cracks can become serious over time if left unrepaired. Cracks allow heat and moisture to deteriorate your chimney and harmful carbon monoxide gas to seep into your home. Small cracks can often be caulked, while large cracked sections may require full replacement.

If you’re deciding between limewash versus whitewash, know that both have a chalky matte appearance. Limewash is made from lime, water, and sometimes pigment, while whitewash consists of lime, water, white chalk, and binders (though you can get a similar look with watered-down white paint). Whitewash has fewer options for color customization, and it sits on surfaces instead of being absorbed into them, which can trap moisture. Whitewashing costs less—about $1.40 to $4.20 per square foot.

Limewash and whitewash often appear together in a quick search when looking for ways to paint brick—so, what’s the difference? Limewash paint is one of the most natural and environmentally friendly ways to paint brick. It’s made from limestone and water, giving it an off-white appearance that looks similar to whitewash. However, limewash is semi-permanent, whereas whitewash is a more permanent, watered-down version of existing paint. 

Both brick paint options are economical and light in color, but if you want to change the appearance of your home’s brick in the future, then limewash might be a better option.

With a little ingenuity, an old fireplace insert can be transformed into a decorative centerpiece that infuses new life into any room. Consider placing LED lights or candles inside to create a captivating display that simulates the warm glow of a fire. Another option is to repurpose the insert as a charming bookshelf by adding rustic shelves within the firebox. For plant lovers, converting the fireplace insert into an indoor garden is a perfect way to bring nature indoors. You can also transform it into a stylish wine rack.