A Fireside Chat with Seabreeze West…
Posted by Laura Nelson on November 20, 2009
Keith Druek, Owner, Seabreeze West Construction
By Keith Druek, Owner, Seabreeze West Construction
Fireplaces: What is your preference? Wood fireplaces require chopped wood; however, if you are looking for a flip-to-switch fireplace, then a gas fireplace would be more conducive. Wood fireplaces are generally more efficient than gas.
Two-Sided, see-through fireplaces are aesthetically pleasing; however, having glass doors on both sides (so smoke spillage may not be a big problem) will require cleaning after every fire.
Direct Vent Fireplaces are high efficiency, sealed gas fireplace systems that can be installed in virtually any room (bedroom, bathroom, etc.). These fireplaces can be vented horizontally (to an outside wall) or vertically (at the roof) and will minimize heat loss through the
chimney.
Be sure the door is open for proper venting and keep the screen closed to keep hot embers from jumping onto the carpet. It is ideal to keep the firebox cleaned out once a week during the time you use the fireplace. During this time, keep one inch of ash in the bottom, which works as an insulator to help coals heat faster and retain heat longer. During the months that the fireplace is not in use, remove all the ash.
Hire a professional to clean out your entire fireplace once a year to prevent the possibility of a chimney fire.
To learn more about remodeling projects for your home, contact Keith Druek, Seabreeze owner, at (630) 585-0123 or visit www.seabreezewest.com.
Tags:Home & Garden
