You’ve heard of spring cleaning, but we’re here to tell you about the importance of Autumn cleaning too. Before the temperature drops and the temptation to light your first fire arrives, it’s imperative to clean and inspect your chimney; for both your safety and maintenance of your investment.
STEP 1 - REMOVE ASHES AND DEBRIS
Clean out old ash and other debris that may be present in the firebox. Earnestly, the fireplace should always be kept free of excessive ash (i.e., enough accumulation that it reaches the bottom of the grate).
STEP 2 - CHECK THE FIREBRICK
Look for any loose or cracked firebrick and make repairs as needed, following the steps below
- Scrape out loose mortar with a scoring tool clean the area with a brush or vacuum.
- Brush water into the joints and onto the surrounding brick faces (mortar doesn’t adhere well to dry brick).
- Mix a small batch of high-temp mortar according to the package directions, then push the mortar into the joint with a tuckpointing trowel until it’s about half-way full.
- Push down firmly as you pull the trowel (handle first) along the joint a few times. Repeat this process until the joint is filled.
- Finally, scrape the excess mortar off the brick faces with the trowel edge and wipe (brick faces only) with a damp sponge.
High-temp mortar typically takes 24 - 48 hours to fully cure and dry, but always read the package for recommended wait time.
STEP 3 - INSPECT THE FLUE
Check your flue and chimney and remove any obstructions – fallen sticks, leaves, etc. Then call your certified chimney sweep for your annual evaluation. It’s vital to have your chimney professionally assessed each year to ensure the build up of flammable residue hasn’t reached more than an 1/8th of an inch.
For gas fireplaces, check that the gas valve, pilot assembly and other parts are working properly and are clear of any debris and dust.
STEP 4 - REMOVE EXCESS MOISTURE
Start small for your first fire of the season. A small fire will help dry out the unit without excessive overheating,which could lead to cracking, and can also help indicate any trouble spots in the flue should smoking result.
If you fear your fireplace has a high level of moisture or if you are burning a fire in a brand-new fireplace, follow these steps to dry it out more thoroughly:
WOOD BURNING
1. Purchase 2 Duraflame logs
2. Cut off 1/3 of one log and burn
3. Wait 2 days and burn remaining 2/3 of first log
4. Wait another 2 days and burn the entire 2nd log
5. Wait another 2 days, and you are good to go
GAS LOGS
1. Turn flame to half volume and let burn for 2 hours
2. Repeat process 3 times, allowing a 24 hour cool time between burns
3. Wait another 24 hours after the final burn and you are good to go.
STEP 5 - ENJOY YOUR FIREPLACE
