CHECK FOR ALERTS BEFORE YOU BURN

HeatShield Chimney Coating: The USA-Made Solution Your Fireplace Needs

When it comes to keeping your fireplace safe, efficient, and ready for the colder months, the condition of your chimney matters more than you think. Cracked flue tiles, deteriorating mortar joints, and hidden gaps can put your home at risk, but tearing down or fully relining a chimney is often messy and expensive. That’s where the HeatShield chimney coating system comes in.

HeatShield is the USA-made, cerfractory “chimney resurfacing” solution that restores your flue to like-new condition by sealing gaps, smoothing interior walls, and improving draft performance. Unlike traditional liners that can involve heavy construction, the HeatShield process is applied inside your existing chimney, making it faster, cleaner, and more cost-effective. And because it’s manufactured here in the United States, you get high quality with no added tariffs or international supply delays which is a big advantage for homeowners looking for reliable value.

For a limited time, we’re offering 10% off HeatShield ceramic chimney coating through October (call us here). If you’ve been considering chimney repairs, this is the perfect opportunity to protect your home, improve fireplace efficiency, and save money before winter arrives.

What Is HeatShield Chimney Coating?

The HeatShield chimney coating system is a proven solution for repairing and restoring damaged flue liners. Instead of tearing down masonry or installing a full stainless-steel liner, HeatShield uses a cerfractory sealant, a hybrid of ceramic and refractory materials, to resurface your chimney from the inside out.

This innovative chimney liner alternative works by:

Sealing cracks and gaps in clay flue tiles.
Filling missing mortar joints that can allow smoke or gases to escape.
Creating a smooth, durable ceramic chimney sealant that improves draft and protects against heat, moisture, and acidic byproducts.

Because HeatShield is applied as a coating directly to your existing chimney liner, it preserves the original flue size, which means better airflow for your fireplace or heating appliance.

The Technology Behind HeatShield

Originally developed in Europe and now manufactured in the USA, HeatShield has been tested to meet rigorous safety and performance standards. Certified installers use specialized tools to apply the sealant evenly throughout the flue, ensuring a gas-tight barrier that meets UL 1777 chimney liner standards.

Homeowners choose HeatShield not just for its safety and performance, but also because it’s:

Eco-friendly – made from naturally occurring and recycled materials.
Certified and tested – meeting ASTM C199 “super-duty” refractory mortar standards.
Long-lasting – backed by a 20-year material warranty.

With HeatShield, you get a modern chimney resurfacing solution that’s less invasive, more affordable, and safer than many traditional alternatives.

Why USA-Made Matters for Your Chimney Coating

When it comes to protecting your home, quality and reliability aren’t negotiable. That’s why choosing a USA-made chimney coating like HeatShield is such a smart decision. Unlike some imported chimney products, HeatShield is manufactured here in the United States, under strict quality controls and performance testing.

1) No Tariffs, No Surprises

One of the biggest advantages of HeatShield being produced domestically is cost stability. Because there are no tariffs involved, you won’t face unexpected price hikes caused by international shipping or trade fees. That means more predictable pricing, better value, and peace of mind knowing your investment is protected.

2) Supporting Local Manufacturing

Many homeowners prefer USA-made building products because they know they’re getting:

Higher quality assurance backed by American standards.
Safer materials tested for long-term durability.
Reliable availability without overseas delays.

3) Trusted by Professionals Across the Country

Certified chimney professionals rely on HeatShield because they know it performs. From sealing flue tile cracks to resurfacing entire liners, this HeatShield chimney liner solution has been trusted in thousands of homes across the U.S.

When you combine its USA-made craftsmanship with the current 10% off promotion (through October), HeatShield stands out as one of the best values in chimney repair today.

Benefits of Choosing HeatShield for Chimney Repair

Homeowners who need chimney repairs often face a tough choice: patch and hope for the best, or invest in an expensive full relining or rebuild. With the HeatShield chimney resurfacing system, you don’t have to compromise. HeatShield offers a middle ground that’s safe, reliable, and cost-effective.

Long-Lasting Protection

HeatShield uses a ceramic flue sealant that bonds tightly to your existing liner, creating a durable, gas-tight barrier. This barrier resists high heat, acidic byproducts, and moisture — the three biggest threats to chimney longevity. Backed by a 20-year material warranty, HeatShield is a solution you can count on season after season.

Safer Fireplace Performance

Cracks and gaps inside your flue can let dangerous gases like carbon monoxide (more on health hazards of CO here) seep into your home. By restoring the liner’s integrity, HeatShield chimney repair improves safety and ensures your fireplace or heating appliance vents properly.

Less Invasive, More Affordable

Unlike stainless steel relining or full chimney rebuilds, HeatShield is applied from within your existing chimney. That means:

No tearing down masonry.
No major structural changes.
Faster installation (often just a day).
Lower overall cost without sacrificing quality.

Certified, Tested, and Trusted

HeatShield has been rigorously tested and is UL 1777 listed when used with the CeCure Sleeve. It’s also rated Super-Duty by ASTM C199 standards, making it one of the most trusted repair options available.

Eco-Friendly Solution

Made with recycled and naturally occurring materials, HeatShield isn’t just good for your home, it’s good for the environment too. Choosing HeatShield means you’re reducing waste while extending the life of your existing chimney.

Schedule Your HeatShield Chimney Service Today

Fall is the perfect season to schedule chimney repairs. Before the cold weather sets in and fireplaces start working overtime, ensuring your chimney is safe and efficient is essential. By booking now, you’ll:

Save money with our 10% off HeatShield promotion.
Prepare your fireplace for winter before demand spikes and appointments fill up.
Protect your home and family by fixing flue cracks, gaps, and deterioration.

This fall, give your fireplace the care it deserves. With our limited-time 10% off promotion there’s never been a better time to invest in the safety and efficiency of your home.

Contact us today to schedule your HeatShield chimney coating service and secure your discount before October 31st. Protect your home, save money, and enjoy peace of mind all winter long.

What to Know Before Scheduling Your Wood Insert Installation

As Bay Area homeowners look for cleaner, more reliable ways to heat their homes, wood-burning fireplace inserts are seeing a major comeback. In fact, during the last winter season alone, we installed more inserts than we had in the previous five to seven years combined. With growing concerns over the long-term cost and reliability of gas appliances, more people are recognizing wood as a renewable, dependable, and highly efficient heat source.

But before you run out to purchase a wood insert, it’s important to understand what’s involved in the installation process. As well as, how it differs from other heating options like free-standing wood stoves. At The Irish Sweep, we specialize in wood insert installation, (not to be confused with wood stove installation) and we want to make sure you’re fully informed before you make your next move. Let’s talk about everything you need to know to prepare for a successful, code-compliant, and clean-burning wood insert installation.

What Is a Wood-Burning Fireplace Insert?

A wood-burning fireplace insert is a specially engineered appliance designed to fit inside an existing masonry fireplace. Unlike open fireplaces, which lose a large portion of heat up the chimney, wood inserts are enclosed systems that burn wood more efficiently, produce significantly more heat, and reduce emissions. Many modern models are EPA-certified and designed to meet today’s clean-air standards, making them a smarter and more environmentally conscious choice.

It’s important to note that a wood insert is not the same as a free-standing wood stove, both of which are gaining in popularity. While both burn wood for heat, inserts are built to slide into an existing firebox and vent through the existing chimney with a stainless steel liner. Free-standing stoves, on the other hand, are separate structures that sit on hearth pads and typically vent through a new or dedicated flue system. If your goal is to transform your inefficient open fireplace into a powerful heat source, a wood-burning insert is a great solution.

What to Do Before You Buy Your Insert

Before you visit a hearth store or make any purchase decisions, there are a few important steps to take to ensure your wood insert installation goes smoothly. While The Irish Sweep does not sell wood-burning inserts or installation materials, we play a key role in helping you select the right product for your home.

1. Schedule a Firebox Measurement with The Irish Sweep

The first step is to have us visit your home and measure your existing firebox. During this appointment, we’ll gather the dimensions needed for proper insert sizing and assess the condition of the firebox and chimney to identify any masonry modifications that may be required later. We will also sweep the chimney if needed.

2. Take Measurements and a Fireplace Photo to a Hearth Dealer

Once you have the firebox measurements, take them, along with a clear photo of your fireplace (not the chimney), to a local hearth retailer. These stores specialize in selling wood-burning inserts and will help match you with an appliance that meets both your heating needs and the physical dimensions of your fireplace.

3. Purchase the Insert and Materials from the Dealer

You’ll purchase the wood insert and any required venting or installation materials directly from the hearth dealer. Most retailers will bundle the appliance with the appropriate stainless steel liner and components needed for a safe installation.

By taking these steps before scheduling your installation, you’ll avoid common sizing issues and ensure a smoother, more efficient process when installation day arrives.

What to Expect During Installation

Once you’ve selected and purchased your wood-burning insert and all necessary materials from a hearth dealer, The Irish Sweep will handle the rest, making the installation process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Scheduling and Delivery

We’ll book a dedicated installation day on our calendar and coordinate the pickup and delivery of your new insert and installation materials. Everything will be brought directly to your home, so you don’t need to worry about transportation or logistics.

Chimney Preparation and Modifications

Before the insert can be installed, we may perform a chimney cleaning if needed to ensure a safe and proper fit. If masonry adjustments are required, such as resizing the firebox opening or creating space for the liner, we’ll complete those modifications during the visit.

Assembly and Installation

Our team will assemble the appliance on-site and install all the venting components, including the stainless steel liner that’s required for wood insert operation. Because this liner runs through your existing chimney, it ensures proper draft and safe venting for the high-efficiency burn of your new appliance.

Clean-Up and Handoff

Once installation is complete, we remove all debris from the job site and leave your home as clean as we found it. We’ll also provide the homeowner’s section of the installation manual and make sure you understand the next steps for operating your new insert safely.

From start to finish, we aim to provide expert-level craftsmanship, clear communication, and a safe, code-compliant installation you can rely on for years to come.

Understanding the Role of the Metal Flue

One of the most important components of a proper wood insert installation is the metal flue liner. Unlike open fireplaces that vent smoke and gases through a clay-lined masonry chimney, wood-burning inserts must be connected to a stainless steel flue liner that runs from the appliance up through the chimney to the top. This liner is essential for safety, performance, and compliance with modern building codes.

Why the Metal Liner Matters

Wood inserts are sealed systems that rely on precise drafting to operate efficiently. The stainless steel liner ensures that combustion gases are vented properly and that creosote buildup is minimized. It also protects the interior of your chimney from heat damage and corrosive byproducts.

What About Ceramic Coating?

Ceramic coatings are sometimes used to repair damaged clay flue liners and mortar joints. However, when installing a wood insert, ceramic coating is not needed. That’s because the new stainless steel liner bypasses the existing clay liner entirely. The only scenario where ceramic coating might be considered is if the chimney structure is severely deteriorated, something we’ll evaluate during your inspection.

With the metal liner included as part of the insert system, you can feel confident that your installation will meet safety standards and perform reliably for years to come.

Ready to Install Your Wood Insert? Let’s Get Started

Wood-burning fireplace inserts offer an energy-efficient, environmentally friendly way to heat your home. Especially as more homeowners move away from gas. While the appliances themselves are highly engineered and may carry a higher price tag, their performance, heat output, and clean-burning design make them a worthwhile investment.

At The Irish Sweep, we bring decades of hands-on experience to every installation, ensuring your insert is installed safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with modern codes. From initial measurements to final clean-up, our team handles the details so you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of your new heating system without the hassle.

Ready to schedule your firebox measurement or ask questions about the process?
Call us at 510‑521‑4088 or email [email protected] to get started. Don’t wait until the cold weather hits, book your wood insert installation today and be ready for winter!

What Is the Best Wood to Burn in a Fireplace?

Ever wondered why some fires burn hotter and longer than others? A crackling fire is one of the simplest pleasures of winter, but not all firewood burns the same. Choosing the best wood to burn in your fireplace can make all the difference in heat output, efficiency, and safety. The right firewood burns cleaner, produces more heat, and reduces creosote buildup in your chimney.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting, seasoning, and burning the best firewood for a cozy and safe home.

Why Choosing the Right Firewood Matters

Selecting the right firewood isn’t just about warmth—it also affects indoor air quality, maintenance, and safety. Poor firewood choices can lead to excess smoke, inefficient burning, and increased creosote buildup, which can become a fire hazard.

Key Benefits of Using the Right Firewood:

Higher heat output – Quality wood burns hotter, keeping your home warmer.
Less creosote buildup – Dry, seasoned wood minimizes the risk of chimney fires.
Cleaner burning – The right wood produces less smoke and fewer emissions.
Longer burn times – Hardwood logs burn longer, reducing the need for frequent refueling.

Hardwood vs. Softwood: What’s the Difference?

Firewood falls into two main categories: hardwood and softwood. Understanding their differences will help you make the best choice for your fireplace.

Hardwood:

Comes from deciduous trees (oak, maple, ash, hickory, birch).
Denser wood that burns longer and hotter.
Produces less smoke and creosote.
Ideal for indoor fireplaces and wood stoves.

Softwood:

Comes from coniferous trees (pine, fir, spruce, cedar).
Burns faster and produces more smoke.
Higher resin content, leading to more creosote buildup.
Best used for kindling or outdoor fires.

Best Choice for Fireplaces: Hardwoods are the superior option due to their efficiency, long burn time, and minimal creosote production.

Best Wood to Burn in a Fireplace

Not all hardwoods are equal when it comes to burning. Here are the top firewood choices based on heat output and burn quality:

Wood Type	Burn Time	Heat Output	Pros	Cons
Oak	Long-lasting	High	Burns slowly with steady heat, minimal smoke	Requires up to two years of seasoning
Hickory	Long-lasting	Very High	One of the hottest-burning woods, great for cold winters	Hard to split and needs extended drying time
Maple	Moderate to long	Medium to High	Readily available and burns cleanly	Harder to split than some other hardwoods
Ash	Long	High	Dries faster than oak, burns cleanly	Slightly less heat than hickory or oak
Cherry	Moderate	Medium	Pleasant aroma, minimal smoke	Not as hot-burning as oak or hickory

How to Properly Season and Store Firewood

Firewood needs to be seasoned (dried) to reduce moisture content before burning. Burning wet or “green” wood produces excess smoke, low heat, and increased creosote buildup.

Signs of Properly Seasoned Firewood:

Cracks on the ends.
Lighter weight compared to green wood.
Produces a hollow sound when knocked together.
Moisture content below 20% (use a moisture meter to check).

Proper Storage Tips:

Stack off the ground – Use pallets or a firewood rack.
Allow airflow – Stack wood loosely in a crisscross pattern.
Cover the top – Protect from rain and snow but leave sides open for ventilation.
Store for at least 6-12 months – Oak and hickory may require longer.

Tips for a Safe and Efficient Fireplace Fire

Start with dry kindling – Use small softwood pieces or fire starters.
Build a top-down fire – Place large logs at the bottom, medium logs above, and kindling at the top.
Ensure proper airflow – Keep the damper open to maintain a strong flame.
Clean your chimney regularly – Hire professionals like The Irish Sweep to remove creosote buildup.
Never burn painted or treated wood – These release harmful toxins.

FAQ: Common Questions About Firewood and Fireplaces

Q: What is the longest-burning firewood?

A: Oak, hickory, and ash are among the longest-burning woods.

Q: What is the best wood to burn in a fireplace?

A: The best firewood includes oak, hickory, and ash, which burn efficiently and produce long-lasting heat. Hickory is great for high heat, but oak may be more cost-effective per cord.

Q: What is the hottest burning wood?

A: Hickory and oak are among the hottest-burning woods, producing high heat output and long-lasting embers.

Q: Is it safe to burn softwood in a fireplace?

A: Softwoods can be used for kindling but should not be the primary fuel due to higher creosote production.

Q: Can I use a log burner stove fan to improve efficiency?

A: Yes, a log burner stove fan helps circulate warm air more effectively throughout the room.

Q: How can I tell if firewood is properly seasoned?

A: Check for cracks, a hollow sound when knocked, and use a moisture meter to ensure levels are below 20%.

Q: What is the best wood-burning stove for small homes?

A: Compact wood stoves with high-efficiency ratings are best for small spaces, such as the top-rated wood stoves available today.

Q: Why does my firewood smoke so much?

A: Likely due to high moisture content. Ensure the wood is properly seasoned.

Q: Can I burn wood that has been painted or treated?

A: No! Burning treated wood releases harmful chemicals and toxins.

Choosing the Best Firewood for Your Home

The best wood to burn in your fireplace is dry, well-seasoned hardwood like oak, hickory, or ash. These woods offer high heat output, longer burn times, and minimal smoke. Proper storage and maintenance will ensure your fireplace burns efficiently and safely all winter long.

For expert fireplace and chimney care, give The Irish Sweep a call at 510.521.4088 or fill out our contact form to schedule a cleaning or inspection today!

How and Why To Install a New Wood Burning Fireplace Insert

In this article, we’ll discuss how to install a fireplace insert in your home and the many benefits of doing so.

If you’re like most people, you probably enjoy the warm glow of a fire during the winter. While there’s nothing wrong with enjoying an open fire, did you know that installing a fireplace insert could improve your home’s heating efficiency by 70 percent or more? It’s true – a new fireplace insert is one of the best ways to improve the comfort and value of your home.

What is a Fireplace Insert?

A fireplace insert is a type of wood (or gas) appliance without legs, and they are designed to be placed inside an existing wood fireplace. Fireplace inserts consist of a metal box that is inserted seamlessly into the fireplace opening. Because of their design, fireplace inserts are much more efficient than traditional wood-burning fireplaces. They dramatically increase heating capacity and wood-burning efficiency while still enjoying the unmatched warmth, ambiance, and nostalgia that only wood fireplaces can provide.

Choosing a New Insert

The first step to install a fireplace insert is to choose the right model. There are many different types of inserts available on the market, so it’s important to select one that fits your needs and lifestyle.

When choosing an insert, you’ll need to consider the following factors:

The size of your fireplace opening
The type of fuel you want to use (wood or gas)
Your desired heating capacity
The efficiency rating of the insert
The style of the insert

Once you’ve considered these factors, it’s time to start shopping!

How to Install a Fireplace Insert

Now that you’ve chosen the perfect fireplace insert, it’s time to install it in your home. This job is best done by a professional because it requires special tools and expertise. Our local technicians with The Irish Sweep take a unique approach to installing wood-burning fireplace inserts, incorporating the style and design of each individual fireplace.

If you’re interested in having a wood-burning fireplace insert installed in your home, be sure to contact The Irish Sweep. We’ll install it safely and efficiently. And don’t forget annual maintenance, which will keep your insert running smoothly for decades to come.

If you’re thinking about learning how to install a fireplace insert yourself, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and take the proper safety precautions. This is not a quick and easy DIY!

The Benefits of a New Insert

There are many benefits to installing a new fireplace insert in your home. Some of the most notable benefits include:

Increased heating capacity with less smoke
A dramatic increase in wood-burning efficiency
Increased home value
The ability to zone heat your home
Reduced energy costs

If you’re looking for a way to improve the comfort and value of your home, installing a new fireplace insert is a great option.

Talk to Us

Our services at The Irish Sweep can help maintain and enjoy a wood-burning chimney and fireplace all winter and for years to come. We take great pride in offering our fireplace installation services to the resident community and the local Bay Area. To schedule an appointment with our team, call us at (510)521-4088, or visit our contact page.

Is There Flammable Debris Inside Your Chimney?

Flammable debris inside your chimney can be a serious fire hazard. If you notice any of these signs, contact a professional chimney sweep immediately.

Whether you have a wood burning chimney or a fireplace with a gas log lighter, flammable debris can build up on the inside—where it’s out of sight and out of mind. Let’s take a look at the top offenders when it comes to fireplace safety.

Soot

Soot is a natural byproduct that accumulates from burning wood. If you have a wood burning chimney in your home, you can be sure you’ve got soot too. Not only is soot flammable, but it’s also fine enough to inhale and contains toxic elements. Be sure to have it removed from your chimney at least once a year.

Creosote

Creosote is a tar-like material that you can find inside a wood burning chimney that hasn’t been cleaned in a while. This substance is highly flammable, so it’s essential to have it removed by a professional chimney sweep. Although, there are a couple ways you can cut back on creosote buildup, such as only burning seasoned wood. Not only does green wood not burn as well, but it also produces more smoke and creosote deposits.

You definitely don’t want to allow creosote and soot to build up inside your chimney. It can spark into a chimney fire that puts your home at risk, but you might not even notice until it’s too late. Another important issue to highlight is that if enough creosote builds up, it can even block toxic gases from exiting the chimney, causing them to remain indoors.

Mold In Chimney

Did you know that mold can grow inside your chimney as well? If there’s moisture in your chimney system, it can lead to unchecked mold growth. This can be caused by things like deteriorating mortar, poorly maintained roof gutters or a faulty chimney cap, so be sure to have a professional chimney sweep look for any chimney damage that could result in this health hazard.

Chimney Flue Damage

In order for your fireplace and wood burning chimney to function properly, the flue needs to be in tip-top shape. But without a professional chimney inspection, it’s tough for homeowners to discover this kind of damage on their own. That’s because a special camera is often needed to really see inside your chimney. If the flue isn’t intact, combustible parts of your home can be exposed to extreme heat, making this scenario a hidden fire hazard.

Animal Nests

Unfortunately, animals sometimes climb into a chimney and become trapped and unable to find their way back out. Another common situation we see is birds or rodents looking for a warm, dry place to build their nests. Nesting materials are flammable, not to mention the mess you’ll find the next time you want to build a fire.

If your wood burning chimney doesn’t have a cap to protect it, don’t be surprised if you’ve had some unexpected visitors, such as bats, raccoons, squirrels, or birds. Even snakes have been found in chimneys from time to time.

Schedule an Inspection

Has it been a while since your last chimney inspection? To schedule an appointment with The Irish Sweep, call us at (510) 521-4088, or use this simple contact form by clicking here. Your safety is our number one priority, so we’re always happy to answer any questions you have. We look forward to hearing from you.

WHAT ARE “NO BURN DAYS”?

Spare the Air was formed in 1991 by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District to inform residents when the air quality is forecast to be harmful and to share information on ways to decrease air pollution. No Burn Days are also called “Winter Spare the Air” days.

In 2008, the Air District approved a rule that makes it illegal to burn firewood on days once a Winter Spare the Air alert is in effect. This guideline was adopted to protect public health.

During winter months, wood smoke is the major source of air pollution in the Bay Area, accounting for more than one-third of fine particulate substance pollution. On cool, peaceful days when there is an inversion layer of warm air acting as a cover over a layer of cold air, wood smoke can build up at ground level to harmful concentrations.

There are numerous things residents can do to decrease their impact on air quality over the winter, when these weather conditions endure. The first line of protection is to limit usage of wood-burning stoves, and ideally switch over to a different heating method, such as gas, or EPA-certified wood stoves.

CHECK FOR ALERTS BEFORE YOU BURN

Never fail to spot an alert by signing up for Winter Spare the Air Alerts. Modify your alert for text, email, or phone call. Winter Spare the Air Alerts will as well be posted to the Spare the Air and Air District websites and social media.

KEEP IN COMPLIANCE

Besides avoiding burning wood on Winter Spare the Air Days, there are additional provisions in the wood-burning rule.

Wood-burning devices are forbidden in new buildings constructed in the Bay Area. Gas-fueled fireplace, gas inserts, and electrical fireplaces are acceptable.

We want you to stay warm this winter, but make sure you first check if that day is a “no burn day” by visiting the Spare the Air website.