Keep Your Traditional Fireplace Clean and Safe this Spring with these Tips
As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, you are probably using your fireplace less and less. After a cozy winter, your wood-burning fireplace could probably use a good freshening up! Follow these easy tips to prepare your wood burning fireplace, keep it in tip-top shape this spring, and stays safe and efficient for years to come.
The Importance of Preparing Your Wood Burning Fireplace for Spring
During the winter, your fireplace was working overtime to keep your home cozy and warm. Cleaning out your fireplace of any old soot or flammable debris regularly will prolong the lifespan of your unit and reduce any risk of fire-related accidents. Cleaning your fireplace and chimney will help ensure it is safe to use again next winter, and many more.
How to Prepare the Inside of Your Wood Burning Fireplace for Spring
Before starting to clean the inside of your fireplace, remember it’s a dirty job! Pick-out some old clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty before you start cleaning. Wear proper eye protection and a facemask to avoid getting dust or ash particles in your eyes or lungs.
When it comes to cleaning the inside of your fireplace and chimney, remember to start at the top and work your way down. Protect your floor and nearby furniture by covering it with newspaper or cloth you don’t mind getting covered in dust.
Cleaning the Inside of Your Fireplace and Chimney
- Start high and sweep your chimney to remove excess debris or dangerous objects.
- Cover your fireplace top with a wire or netting cap to ensure that small animals or branches don’t fall in.
- Practice damage control by checking for any leaks, crumbling structure, or holes in your chimney structure to make sure that no unexpected damage occurs.
- Working downward, clean out any remaining wood logs and debris.
- Vacuum any ash or leftover debris for your fireplace.
- Use a coarse wire brush to scrub away as much creosote and build-up on the walls inside your fireplace as you can.
- Make a safe, chemical-free paste out of baking soda and water to scrub the inside walls of your fireplace. Wipe it away and rinse the rest of it away with water.
- You can use the same water to clean out any remaining debris and soot inside the fireplace.
- Let its air dry or use a lint-free cloth to pat dry.
How to Prepare the Outside of Your Wood Burning Fireplace for Spring
Regularly maintaining the outer surface of your fireplace will guarantee that it remains the central focal point of your living room year-round. You will probably notice extra smudges and dust around the outside after you have properly cleaned out the base and chimney. Wait for the dust to settle, and save cleaning the outer portion of your traditional fireplace for after you’ve worked on the inside.
Cleaning The Outside of Your Traditional Fireplace
- Regularly clean the fireplace covering with a DIY cleaning solution or vinegar and water.
- Use a good, sturdy scrub brush to remove soot or hard stains from flames that touched the edges of the outer fireplace.
- Keep and glass coverings free of ash and debris, and take the time to inspect it for cracks or other breaks.
- For extra shine, consider cleaning the exterior with lemon oil or lemon water, which naturally brightens and de-stains.
Contact Creative Energy for More Expert Advice about Your Fireplace
Our team at Creative Energy is committed to providing all our customers with unmatched quality service. If you have any questions about your fireplace contact us online or schedule an appointment to visit one of our showrooms in San Rafael, San Mateo, or Concord!
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