Get matched with top fire pit installation pros in Baxter Estates, NY

You can fireproof an existing door to some extent, but it's better to remove the old door and replace it with a fire-rated model. Anything dealing with extreme heat needs rigorous testing and a door you DIY fireproof will not undergo the same safety measures as a premade one. Consider a door with a rating of at least 30 minutes or more in residential areas.

It’s technically possible in some areas to install your own fire suppression system, but it’s usually not a good idea. Your system must conform to the fire code in your area and will need to pass a rigorous inspection before being activated and deemed safe. Installing a fire suppression system is a complicated job, and making mistakes as a DIYer is likely. Those mistakes can cause you to fail your inspection, which means you’ll have to spend more time fixing the issues or money to have a certified plumber do the work for you. It’s best to hire a professional.

In addition to flashing, a roof cricket can help divert water around your chimney so that it drains properly off your roof. It’s shaped like a double triangle and is installed behind the chimney so that falling water spills evenly down each side. This helps prevent water from accumulating behind your chimney, which can increase water damage and the risk of leaks. 

The International Building Code (IBC) requires cricket installation if a chimney built after 2012 measures over 30 inches in width. Chimneys constructed before that date are typically grandfathered in and aren’t required to have crickets installed.

Fire sprinkler systems give your home’s value a boost. Potential home buyers are looking for a safe place to settle, and a well-maintained sprinkler system can provide peace of mind. Plus, some homeowners insurance policies offer discounted rates for homes with this type of built-in system, thanks to the decreased risk of fire.