Get matched with top fireplace pros in Starbuck, MN

Your fireplace flue is open when the chimney is unsealed and open to the outside air and sky. That’s why one of the best ways to figure out if your flue is open is to visually check for daylight inside of your chimney—or to feel for a draft, which may be generated by the difference in temperatures inside and outside of your home.

Chimney liners often benefit from insulation, though it is not always required. Insulation helps improve the liner's efficiency by keeping flue gasses hotter, which enhances draft and reduces creosote buildup. It also prevents condensation, which can lead to corrosion. Insulation is important for chimneys on exterior walls or in colder climates. Some building codes may require insulation, so checking local regulations is essential.

Fireplace inserts can increase home value when installed correctly. Since they improve heating efficiency significantly, this will be a bonus to homeowners who are looking for a functional alternative heat source. Plus, inserts are less maintenance and less of a liability than a traditional fireplace. You’re very likely to recover fireplace insert installation costs when you sell your home.

For most brick cleaning jobs, including fireplace bricks, use a masonry sponge and a gentle cleaner. A simple solution of equal parts water and vinegar, or a few drops of dish soap in a bowl of water, can effectively remove grime. For tougher stains, you can use a dedicated masonry or fireplace cleaner. It is crucial to wet the bricks thoroughly with water before applying any cleaning solution to prevent the brick from absorbing it, and to rinse the surface completely afterward. Harsher cleaners containing bleach or ammonia should only be used as a last resort, and they should never be mixed together.