Watch For Smoke

What is the Best Wood to Burn in a Fireplace? To Burn or Not to Burn

What is the best wood to burn in a fireplace?

Burning wood in a fireplace is an enjoyable and cozy experience, especially during the holidays. However, some wood is better to burn than others, and for a good reason. To ensure safety, as well as the safety of family and neighbors, it’s important to familiarize oneself with what types of wood are best for burning in the Bay Area.

The density and moisture of wood all play a role in how hot and how long it will burn. The best woods will burn efficiently, leaving the fireplace or stove clean. On the other hand, some types of wood barely burn at all and just fill the home with smoke instead.

Hardwood V.S. Softwood: What’s the Difference?

Some people think hardwood is stronger than softwood because of its name, but this isn’t always the case. In fact, some types of softwoods are actually harder than hardwoods. So what’s the difference between these two kinds of wood, and which is the best for burning?

What is Hardwood?

The easiest way to identify hardwood trees is to look at their leaves. Hardwood trees typically have deciduous (broad) leaves and are usually found in temperate climates. Examples of hardwoods that are good for burning in the fireplace include oak, hickory, maple, poplar, and ash.

Hardwood burns hotter and longer than softwood because it has a higher density. It also produces less smoke, making it a good choice for those living in urban areas.

What is Softwood?

Softwoods typically have evergreen (needle-like) leaves and are often found in colder climates. Examples of softwoods suitable for burning in the fireplace include pine, cedar, spruce, and fir. Softwoods have a lower density than hardwoods, so they burn faster and produce more smoke. Additionally, they tend to have higher sap levels and more air within their cell structure, which results in a hot, fast burn with a lot of sparks. It is generally not recommended to burn softwood for cooking because the sap can affect the flavor of food.

The Verdict: Hardwood is Better For Burning

Overall, hardwood is the best type of wood for burning in the fireplace and should be used whenever possible. It has a longer burn time than softwood and produces significantly less smoke.

Seasoned Wood is Best

Wood should be seasoned before burning it in the fireplace. Seasoning wood means that it has been allowed to dry out, usually over a period of six months to a year.

Wood that has been recently cut, or unseasoned wood, contains a lot of water – around half its weight. Burning this type of wood can be tricky as it produces more smoke than dry wood and doesn’t burn as well. Seasoned wood has been split, stacked, and stored in a dry area to allow it to dry completely.

Unseasoned or “wet” wood will not burn as efficiently or cleanly and can cause creosote buildup in a chimney, creating a fire hazard. Therefore, when choosing wood to burn, go for seasoned hardwood!

Where to Find Good Burning Wood in the Bay Area

When buying wood to burn, there are several factors to keep in mind: what type of wood, what size, and what quality. The best wood for burning in the Bay Area is dry, seasoned hardwood. It should have been cut and split for at least six months to a year and should have an average moisture content of 15-20%. Seasoned wood is dry to the touch, may have loose bark and splits or cracks in ends, and should feel lightweight for its size.

Firewood can be purchased from local vendors, hardware stores, or online. It is essential to check the quality and ensure it will burn properly.

Firewood is most commonly sold in units of a pallet, cord, face-cord, or bundle.

A full cord of firewood is a stack of wood that is 8 feet long, 4 feet deep, and 4 feet high. Most standard fireplaces, wood stoves, or fire pits will require further cutting, so the logs fit them.

A face cord is a wood pile that measures 8 feet long and 4 feet high, and typically uses 16-inch logs–amounting to 64 cubic feet of wood. It is 1/3rd the size of a full cord.

Firewood bundles are one of the most convenient ways to purchase and use firewood. Most bundles are .75 cubic feet, making them easy to carry and handle. Some campgrounds even sell bundles to visitors. Because of its convenience, bundled firewood is often at the higher end of the price range.

If purchasing wood wrapped in plastic, check whether it is dry before bringing it home. If the wood still feels wet, place it on a firewood rack in a sheltered area so it can continue to dry. It’s best to avoid leaning or stacking firewood against a home – this provides a very cozy place for critters to hide.

Safe Burning Rules

1. Check for Alerts Before Burning

Most of the time, it is perfectly safe to burn seasoned wood throughout the seasons. However, when there are high levels of fine particulate pollution in the air, the county may call for a Spare the Air alert. On these days, the no-burn rule applies to both homes and businesses like hotels and restaurants.

Signing up for text alerts about Spare the Air is easy. Alerts are also posted to the Spare the Air and Air District websites and social media pages (Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram). Local radio and TV news media also broadcast the alerts.

2. Only Burn Dry, Seasoned Wood

Burning wet or unseasoned wood is not only inefficient, but it also increases the amount of smoke that is released into the air. Burning moist wood produces more soot, which can lead to chimney and air pollution problems.

Furthermore, burning wet wood can cause wood fires to produce more creosote as a result of incomplete combustion. Creosote smells like tar and builds up over time, eventually lining the chimney or flue. This substance poses a significant chimney fire risk as it is highly flammable. Some studies have even indicated that creosote is a probable carcinogen.

3. Use an EPA-Certified Wood Burning Device

Fireplaces or stoves must meet EPA standards for certified wood-burning devices. These appliances are more efficient and produce less smoke than uncertified devices, so they are much better for the environment and general health.

New EPA-certified stoves produce no more than 4.5 grams per hour – older and uncertified stoves release 15 to 30 grams of smoke per hour.

4. Never Burn Garbage, Plastics, or Other Harmful Materials

Unfortunately, there’s a lot of misinformation out there about what is safe to burn. Burning garbage, plastics, or other materials not meant for burning can release hazardous chemicals into the air and pose a health risk. Here are some more examples of materials that are NOT safe to burn:

Gift wrapping paper
Cardboard
Painted or treated lumber
Paper with colored print, including newspapers
Fire accelerants or firestarters
Dryer lint
Driftwood

The best fuel for a fireplace is the fuel it was built for. Other fuels may release toxic fumes, burn too hot for the chimney, cause resin buildup, and cause a risk of chimney fires.

5. Avoid Burning Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus wood is readily available in the Bay Area; these trees are invasive and are constantly being cut down. Although they are hard as stone and take years to dry even when cut and split, they are a pyrophyte, just like pine and cedar. When they catch fire, the sap in them gets hot, boils, and then explodes. Eucalyptus trees were the fuel for the 1991 Oakland Hills fire that destroyed 3,000 homes.

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.

How to Tell When You Need Fireplace Crack Repair

The fireplace is the centerpiece of your home. It should be a comforting and familiar focal point. But if you’ve skipped maintenance on your fireplace for a few years, then you might have begun to wonder if it’s really necessary.

Many homeowners just aren’t familiar with the signs of fireplace damage, so it’s all too easy to let it deteriorate. Investing in fireplace masonry repair early, however, can keep your fireplace looking and working its best for years to come. So if you’re wondering how to spot whether fireplace repairs are needed, here are the three most obvious signs that you need to repair your fireplace.

1. Cracks in the Mortar Joints

A definite sign that you need a fireplace masonry repair is that the mortar joints are beginning to crack. The stones or bricks used in the masonry will absorb moisture over time. This can eventually lead to crumbling and cracking if it’s not repaired. Once you start to see these cracks appearing, it’s time to think about calling a professional. A simple fireplace masonry repair doesn’t take long, and your home will look a lot nicer once the cracks are dealt with.

2. A Damaged Chimney

The moisture that damages the brick around your fireplace may come from rain. Your chimney exists to protect your fireplace masonry from this rainfall, but if it becomes damaged, then it won’t do its job. In particular, take a look at the chimney crown. This is a piece of concrete that shields the fireplace below. If this is cracked, then rain can easily get through. In this instance, a masonry fireplace repair is almost certainly required.

3. Chimney Fires

Has your chimney caught fire recently? Obviously, this shouldn’t happen. The flames are supposed to be contained within the fireplace, with only smoke going up the chimney. If combustion happens within the chimney itself, then it’s likely that there’s a buildup of flammable creosote, or that the fireplace isn’t working correctly. Something may be damaged, so you should have it looked into as soon as possible.

Fireplace Crack Repair

Don’t let your fireplace become damaged beyond repair. Schedule yearly maintenance with us at The Irish Sweep, and learn to spot minor issues before they become expensive repairs. This will keep your fireplace looking and performing at its best. Contact us at (510) 521-4088.

Fireplace Inserts and Maintenance Tips During the Shelter-in-Place

There’s nothing cozier than a wood-burning fireplace for warmth. But fireplace maintenance is vital to the health and safety of your home. In fact, improper upkeep is a common reason for house fires. Fireplace inserts are one solution to help safeguard your home, but here’s a look at some other steps you can take.

Sweep the Interior

Sweeping out your fireplace on a regular basis will make it look tidier, as well as cause it to work more efficiently. We suggest wearing a dust mask to avoid inhaling particles from ash and creosote. Sweeping out this buildup also helps to prevent it from catching on fire.

A well-maintained fireplace shouldn’t fill your home with smoke. This is an important warning sign to pay attention to. It’s possible you could simply be burning the wrong wood. But it’s also very likely there’s a layer of soot or flammable creosote in your chimney that isn’t allowing it to properly vent smoke.

Burning the Right Wood

There are as many different kinds of wood as there are trees, but maybe you’ve never considered what you’re putting in your fireplace before. Hardwoods, such as ash and oak, are the best options because they’re denser and give off more heat. Avoid burning unseasoned “green” wood. Ideally, wood needs to be split and dried for 6-12 months in a covered area before use. Green wood just won’t burn as well, and it creates more creosote on your chimney walls.

Fireplace Inserts and Maintenance

Fireplace inserts can be installed with heat-proof glass to contain any burning materials, like stray embers. Most of them have a blower that circulates heat into the room. Fireplace inserts protect your home, while making your fireplace more efficient.

Scheduling With Us

Aside from DIY sweepings, it’s a good idea to have your fireplace and chimney professionally cleaned and inspected at least once a year. It’s less work to maintain your home than to let creosote buildup. Plus, it’s nice to know your fireplace is ready on cold nights. To schedule a chimney cleaning with us, or learn more about fireplace inserts, call (510) 521-4088.

What Does a Dirty Chimney Look Like?

When wood burns in a fireplace, there are natural byproducts that result. The chimney is the place where it all accumulates. Some of these byproducts are flammable and can ignite to cause a chimney fire if left unswept. So, it’s important to have a dirty chimney cleaned for safety reasons. Here’s what you need to know…

Creosote

Creosote is the most common buildup inside a dirty chimney. It’s a combination of tar and soot that accumulates in layers. Over time, the layers of creosote thicken and need to be removed.

It’s visible to both chimney technicians and the average homeowner. Using a flashlight, peek inside your chimney. If you see an accumulation of black material, it’s likely creosote. A service professional can remove this buildup to restore your chimney to a state of cleanliness and improved function.

Dirty Chimney?

How dirty the inside of your chimney is will depend on when it was last cleaned. According to industry standards, a fireplace and chimney are required to be cleaned at least once a year to remove the buildup of creosote and other debris. However, fireplaces and chimneys that are used more frequently require additional maintenance. Your technician will evaluate the inside of your chimney to determine the best method of cleaning.

A Dirty Chimney Is Dangerous

Having a large accumulation of creosote inside your chimney might also mean the spark arrestor mesh in the flue cap is clogged, creating a downdraft of smoke into your home and cause fires to burn less efficiently and effectively, creating less warmth and greater particulate matter into the environment. These are all inconveniences of a dirty chimney.

But it’s not just an inconvenience. It’s unsafe. The creosote that accumulates on the inner walls of the chimney is a flammable substance and, if not removed periodically, can ignite to cause a chimney fire that could spread to other areas of your home.

Service Appointment For Your Chimney or Dryer Exhaust Vent

For safety, efficiency, and convenience, make sure your chimney isn’t dirty. Call us at (510) 521-4088 or email our Office Manager, Sarah, at [email protected] to schedule an appointment today. Once we are deemed to be an essential business, our expertly trained crew will be so happy to be back at work and address all of your service concerns.

DIY FIREPLACE UPDATES

Any home can achieve a warm and cozy feel throughout winter, while also setting the mood with a subtle romantic effect. A well-maintained fireplace can be a great focal point in the room, but an uncared-for one might be an eyesore. You wouldn’t want to hide this classic feature, would you? Fortunately, breathing new life into your fireplace doesn’t have to be a overpriced affair. There are many budget-friendly options.

Whether you’re just looking to make some minor changes, or you’re desperate to give that outdated fireplace a new look and feel that’s personalized to you, we’ve got some ideas for you.

ADDING OR MODIFYING A MANTEL

A mantel is the brick or wood surrounding the chimney opening. If there’s no mantel on your fireplace, consider building or installing one. It can tie together the aesthetic of the room. Adding a mantel can be easy to install yourself and doesn’t cost a large sum. If you have a mantel and it’s severely chipped, warped, or has irreparable damage, you might think about replacing it. However, some paint will do the trick if your only concern with your existing mantel is its unattractive appearance.

MAKEOVER THE SCREEN AND DOORS

As homes become more modernized, you may be wanting to update old styles. A good place to begin is with the screen and doors of the fireplace. If you adore the current design but want to easily change the look, paint it! You can repaint fireplace doors with high-heat resistant paint, available online or at your local hardware store. A less permanent way to change the look is by getting a new screen.

INSTALL A FLOATING BEAM

In lieu of a mantel, floating beams provide shelf space while keeping the area clear that surrounds the chimney opening. These are an excellent choice if there’s nothing surrounding your fireplace but the hearth.

You can find a new beam in most wood shops or online retailers, as well as salvage shops or even eBay. If you’re handy, you can even cut your own beam from a larger piece of wood and treat it.

ACCESSORIZE, ACCESSORIZE, ACCESSORIZE

The hearth is the area in front of a fireplace, usually a stone, brick, cement, or marble slab. It adds a layer of protection and can be used to store fireplace tools. You can include accessories around the hearth that give it a unique look. A large mirror, piece of artwork, or family portraits may be hung above the mantel to instantly change the aesthetic.

DECORATE WITH AN ARTISTIC TOUCH

Bring out your inner artist by placing a fabric runner on the mantel to complement the wall behind it. Adding small items like picture frames, vases, flowers, or candles are all accessories that can be easily changed out depending on the seasons or holidays. Whatever you decide to do to your fireplace, we’d love to hear about it. Show us your newly designed fireplace here!

Tag: Fireplace