Best fireplace pros near Edgerton, MN

Moving a chimney is possible, but it is a very complex process that requires professional expertise, knowledge of building codes, and safety protocols. Most homeowners find it easier to remove the fireplace and build a new fireplace and chimney in the new location of your home. Talk to your chimney pro about all your options, their costs, and pros and cons. 

Depending on who’s doing the estimating, about 22,000 to 25,000 chimney fires happen each year in the United States. Given the fact that millions of Americans have fireplaces (and chimneys), that means chimney fires aren’t exactly common—but they’re not rare, either. Since they’re so dangerous, it’s important to take precautions to prevent them.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) says that chimneys and their associated elements like fireplaces, vents, or stoves should be cleaned at least once a year before the start of seasonal use. According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America, a chimney should be cleaned when there is 1/8 inch of soot buildup. If there’s more than that, creosote—a flammable byproduct of burning wood—can form and increase the risk of a chimney fire.

While hardwoods are the best woods to burn, a few types of woods should be avoided when burning. Wood that has not had time to season, or “green wood,” should be avoided. The extra water in the wood makes it smoke horribly, which is not a quality you want. Additionally, it’s best to avoid any wood that is manufactured or has been treated, including coated or sealed wood, painted wood, or pressure-treated wood. These woods have chemicals that will be released into your air when burned and can cause health problems.