Get matched with top fire pit installation pros in Saint George, UT

Yes, you need to leave your chimney damper open when burning a creosote log so that smoke and other debris doesn’t waft into your house as it’s burning. You’ll need to make sure your damper is fully open, even when the log continues to smoke, until it’s completely out and cold.

A fireplace hearth is necessary in most areas per building codes, especially for gas and wood-burning fireplaces. Electric fireplaces may not require a hearth, so check local building codes or ask a pro for guidance if you’re leaning toward electric. A fireplace hearth can decrease the risk of flying embers creating a fire and burning your home down. That’s why fireproof material, like tile, is used for the hearth.

You should only use water to put out a fire in your fireplace in an emergency situation. Even then, it is better to use a fire extinguisher to put out a fire quickly. Make sure every room in your house that has a fireplace also has a fire extinguisher—and that everyone in your household knows how to use one.

Whether or not your attic ladder needs to be fire-rated depends on your local building codes, so it’s best to check with your municipal office. However, if your ceiling meets a fire requirement, your attic ladder should as well. There are benefits of opting for a fire-rated ladder. For one, thanks to their fire-resistant material, they'll help protect your home from fire spreading from your attic, if one should break out.