When it comes to interior decorating, the fireplace mantel represents one of the most central parts of any home. The mantel is the perfect spot to showcase a stylish sensibility as well as the unique personality of a particular home. Mantel decorations work best when they are balanced, synchronized, and simple. For more elaborately designed mantels, extra decoration may not even be necessary. … [Read more...]
Fresh Natural Kindling
If you have a fireplace or have been camping, you know how to use kindling to start a fire. You may also know of several different things besides fire starters and store-bought kindling that you can use as kindling, such as newspaper and dried leaves. But did you know that orange peels can be used as kindling? According to bobvila.com they can be used as such, and you can learn how it's done by … [Read more...]
Budget Fireplace Upgrades
Does your fireplace need a makeover? Maybe your style or decor has changed since the fireplace was added or remodeled. Upgrading your fireplace doesn't have to cost a fortune; hgtv.com proves it with an article they've posted called "15 Ways to Refresh Your Fireplace on Any Budget" which has some great ideas to help you switch up your fireplace's look without breaking the bank. If you're thinking … [Read more...]
The Best-Burning Firewood
Did you know that the type of wood you use affects how well your fire burns? If you've got a wood-burning fireplace or are planning a bonfire, you'll want to check out "Firewood Primer: Which Wood Burns Best?", a helpful article at bobvila.com. You'll learn the ins and outs of different types of wood, like: Hard maple Douglas fir Birch Oak Pine Whatever type of wood you choose, be sure … [Read more...]
Fire in the Hole! – Why Your Chimney Needs Sweeping
Chimney sweepers may seem reminiscent of an older time, but as it comes time for you to light up your fireplace,you should consider hiring one for your home's safety. Why do we need chimney sweeping? When you burn wood, the smoke leaves behind something called creosote, a highly flammable substance. With this building up along with soot, a dirty chimney can ignite from an incidental … [Read more...]
Find the Fireplace that's Right for You
Are you feeling nostalgic, dreaming of having a fireplace in your home? That dream might not be as out of reach as you think, especially with the increasing popularity of gas fireplaces. But how do you find a fireplace that fits well in your home and your lifestyle? thisoldhouse.com has an article called "All About Gas Fireplaces" which gives a myriad of helpful tips for finding the fireplace … [Read more...]
Warm Your Living Room Decor With a Fireplace
Fireplaces belong in the living room - there are no surprises there. But if you're struggling to redesign your living room, it might be worth some reminding. Opting for the fireplace as a focal point can produce an effect of communal living, of family gathering, as well as a sense of peacefulness that cannot be attained when the focal point is a television. Contemporary Living Room by Boulder … [Read more...]
How to Put Tile On a Brick Fireplace
Now that the cold has broken and you can move from your warm spot by the fireplace, doubts may be creeping into your mind: do we really want a brick fireplace? In case you're thinking of making the transition from brick to tile on your fireplace, we have some guidance on how to go about it right. First, cover the hearth. Remove the mantel and whatever else is connected to the brick. … [Read more...]