When winter settles in, nothing beats the warmth and comfort of a glowing fire. At 2nd Generation Chimneys, we know how much our neighbors rely on their hearths during the coldest months, and we want you to enjoy yours safely. If you own a fireplace in Minneapolis–St. Paul, peak heating season also means peak responsibility for protecting your home and family. With a few smart habits and regular maintenance, you can keep your fires cozy—not risky—throughout the winter.
Start With the Right Wood
Safe fires start with the right fuel. Always burn seasoned hardwoods such as oak, maple, or birch that have been dried for at least six to twelve months. Properly seasoned wood burns hotter and cleaner, producing less creosote buildup in your chimney. Avoid green or wet wood, which smolders, produces excess smoke, and accelerates creosote formation—a leading cause of chimney fires.
Never burn painted, stained, or treated wood, cardboard, or household trash. These materials release toxic fumes and can damage your fireplace and flue. When in doubt, stick to clean, dry firewood from a reputable supplier.
Use Glass Doors and Screens Correctly
Glass doors and fireplace screens are essential safety tools, but only when used properly. Screens should always be in place while a fire is burning to prevent sparks or embers from entering your living space. Glass doors, on the other hand, should typically remain open during active burning unless your manufacturer specifies otherwise. Closing them too soon can trap heat, damage the glass, or restrict airflow. Never leave a fire unattended, and always make sure it is completely extinguished before going to bed or leaving your home.
Once the fire has burned down to embers, glass doors can be closed to help contain heat and improve efficiency. If your doors or screens are damaged, loose, or don’t fit properly, it’s time for a professional evaluation.
Practice Smart Ember Management
Embers may look harmless, but they can stay hot for days. Always use a metal shovel and store ashes in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid. Keep the container outside, away from your home and combustible materials. Never place ashes in cardboard boxes, plastic bins, or paper bags.
Before starting a new fire, make sure old embers are completely cold and that excess ash has been removed to ensure proper airflow. Proper ember management reduces the risk of accidental fires and keeps your fireplace operating efficiently.
Don’t Skip Chimney Inspections and Cleanings
Heavy winter use makes annual chimney inspections and cleanings more important than ever. Creosote buildup, blockages, and hidden damage can turn a relaxing fire into a serious hazard. Regular professional cleanings remove flammable deposits and help us spot issues before they become costly or dangerous. Installing working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors near your fireplace and throughout your home adds an extra layer of protection during heavy winter use.
At 2nd Generation Chimneys, we recommend scheduling inspections before and during peak heating season if your fireplace sees frequent use. It’s one of the simplest ways to protect your home and enjoy peace of mind all winter long.
2nd Generation Chimneys, Inc. serves Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the Surrounding Communities.
