Did you know that every winter, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire and Alleghany County fire departments respond to dozens of house fires that start in the chimney? In each case, the same preventable cause is Read more

If you are one of the many Pennsylvanians who appreciate the fresh scent and romantic ambiance of a sparkling, crackling natural fire, upgrading to a wood-burning insert will enhance that experience while also improving your Read more

Pennsylvanians love their fireplaces. The snapping and crackling flames and the sweet aroma of maple give your home that warm and cozy feeling. Unfortunately, most of the heat from a traditional fireplace escapes through the Read more

Just when you thought your chimney was out of the woods after a long, snowy winter, here comes summer. Here in Pittsburgh, we’re no strangers to summer storms. The hot, humid weather can lead to Read more

From ancient civilizations to modern construction, brick and mortar are among the most durable materials used in the building of various structures, including chimneys, homes, places of worship, and commercial buildings that have been standing Read more

The weather in western Pennsylvania, known for its wild temperature swings and changing seasons, can be harsh on homeowners, pets, and chimneys. These masonry structures are porous, and the softer mortar that bonds the bricks, Read more

From the moment a chimney is built, it battles the elements. The numbing sub-zero temperatures, heavy snow, and ice define our winters. The often-humid summers and the abundant rainfall we experience year-round are also a Read more

Wood-burning stoves are experiencing a renaissance, with Pennsylvania leading the charge. Pittsburgh homeowners, who were at the forefront of the American Industrial Revolution, have long embraced wood-burning fireplaces and stoves for home heating. Although modern Read more

As summer arrives in western Pennsylvania, many homeowners plan family vacations, weekend barbecues, and tidying the house for Aunt Martha’s annual surprise visit. However, waterproofing the chimney is typically not on many Pittsburgh homeowners’ to-do Read more

Do you know how to use your damper properly? This misunderstood device is vital to your fireplace’s safety and efficiency. While most Pittsburgh homeowners understand the necessity of opening the damper before lighting a fire, Read more