Fireplaces keep you warm during cold winter months. It is imperative to maintain them regularly so they last for many years. Here are some simple practices you can follow so your fireplace will stay in mint condition. Â
1. Consider Regular Inspection
Regular inspection of your fireplace is the best way to keep it working properly and looking its best. Check for any loose or missing parts, as well as any cracks or leaks in the glass or ceramic surround. If necessary, replace any parts that are worn or damaged by using a repair kit that is designed for the kind of fireplace you have.
2. Maintain Fireplace Exterior
Your fireplace should be cleaned regularly to remove soot, ash and dirt from its exterior. Use a special cleaning product that is specifically designed for this purpose, such as an acid blend cleaner or non-acid blend cleaner. Make sure to clean all crevices and joints where dust, soot and other debris can accumulate.
3. Keep Combustible Materials Away From The Fireplace
Never place combustible materials near your fireplace, like food, cigarettes or paper products that could catch fire easily due to their flammable nature. This includes wood logs that catch on fire once they get too warm and start to smolder (usually after an hour or two). It also includes combustible materials such as paper towels and toilet paper rolls that could burst into flames if they are left sitting too close to a heated surface.
Whatever type of fireplaces you have in your home, regular cleaning and maintenance ensure you will continue to enjoy using them for decades. If you notice signs of wear and tear or changes in how your fireplace functions, be sure to have them inspected. As they say, prevention is always better than cure.Â
