2nd Generation Chimneys, Inc. Blog: Archive for the ‘Fireplace’ Category

A Short History of the Fireplace

Monday, March 11th, 2024
cat-fireplace-hearth

The fireplace seems like something that has always been a part of homes. Even if not every home today has a fireplace, we know there was a time when the hearth was the main source of heat for homes. 

Fireplaces have a long history, some of which might surprise you. Today, we want to share some of the milestones in the history of what is still one of the most effective and energy efficient ways to heat a home.

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Why Stick With a Wood-Burning Fireplace?

Monday, February 26th, 2024
fireplace-fire-burning

In our previous blog post, we talked about the benefits of switching to a gas fireplace the next time you need a fireplace installation in Plymouth, MN. Today, we’re going to do the opposite, because although there are many advantages to gas-burning fireplaces, the traditional wood-burning fireplace has plenty to offer as well. If you have an old wood-burning fireplace and you’re looking to have it replaced, you may want to consider having a new wood-burning fireplace put in its place. It’s not always a bad idea to embrace the traditional.

We can help you weigh your different options, and we can handle the installation of whatever type you choose. We’ll make sure that your new fireplace is a true upgrade, no matter if it’s gas, wood-burning, or electric.

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The Power of Spark Arrestors for Fireplaces

Monday, November 20th, 2023
gas-fireplace-insert

Imagine a family gathered around the fireplace on a chilly evening. A stray spark flies out from the fireplace. Potentially, it can start a fire in the house. Or imagine sparks going up the chimney, flying out and landing on the roof, possibly starting the house on fire.

What can stop these scenarios from happening? They’re called spark arrestors, and when it comes to the safety of your home and the enjoyment of a warm fireplace, they play a crucial role. 

There are two different types of spark arrestors: exterior and interior. The combination of these two kinds of spark arrestors creates a dynamic duo that helps to provide the best protection for your home and loved ones, stopping sparks from getting inside your house and stopping them from escaping the house.

Let’s look closer at both types of spark arrestors and their role in fireplace safety. We’ll examine their different features and how they work. If you’re looking for better fireplace safety and need spark arrestor installation in Minneapolis, MN, we’re the experienced contractor to trust with the job.

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What Is the Firebox in a Fireplace?

Monday, October 9th, 2023
fireplace-brick-fire

How much do you know about your fireplace? It’s okay if you don’t know or if you’ve never heard of a firebox before. But knowing more about it will help you better understand the importance of fireplace maintenance and repair. 

The firebox is truly the “heart” of a fireplace, and it’s essential both for a fireplace to work and to stay safe. Below we’ll explain the firebox in more detail, offer some safety tips, and list some signs that you may need to call us for a fireplace inspection in Bloomington, MN and possible fireplace repairs.

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When To Get Fireplace Repairs

Monday, February 13th, 2023
gas-fireplace-insert

Have you been using your fireplace more frequently these days? The cold weather certainly makes that fire a welcome addition to the house, not to mention the ambiance that it adds to your evenings. However, you may have started to notice that your fireplace is looking a bit rougher than usual.

Don’t write off what you notice. There is a reason you’re picking up on these details. The visual indicators presented by a fireplace that needs fireplace repair in Edina, MN are just some of the warning signs to watch for. We’ll describe the others below. With these warning signs in mind, it’ll be that much easier to know when to reach out to us for service.

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You’ll Thank Yourself For Installing a Gas Fireplace

Monday, November 7th, 2022

When it comes to having a fireplace in your home, it is good to know you have options. And no, we aren’t just talking about choosing the size of the fireplace or selecting the bricks or tiles that will decorate the facade (although you will get to choose those too).

These days you have a new option for your fireplace fuel source. You no longer have to buy or chop up wood for your fireplace if you don’t want to. This is because you can opt for a gas fireplace instead.

If you are curious to learn more about getting a gas fireplace in your home, then read on!

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3 Parts of Your Fireplace and Chimney That You Should Know

Monday, May 23rd, 2022
gas-fireplace-insert

Your fireplace and chimney do more than just serve as a focal point in whatever room they’re in. They also provide warmth during the winter season when you get a nice blaze going. Winter isn’t the only time of year when you need to take care of this system–and yes your fireplace and chimney really are considered a system.

It may not have moving parts but it has plenty of different parts to consider and keep track of. That is why we’ve provided a quick list of some of the bigger parts you should know a bit more about so that you know better how to care for your fireplace and chimney. The better your know this system, the easier it will be to determine if and when it needs chimney or fireplace repair in St. Paul, MN.

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4 Signs It Is Time to Clean Out Your Fireplace

Monday, May 9th, 2022

Spring cleaning doesn’t just apply to the visible parts of your home. You also need to keep your home’s systems clean too. There is a reason why HVAC experts encourage people to change their system filters to keep their air conditioner and heater clean. Your fireplace and chimney need to be kept clean too.

A dirty fireplace is one that can create trouble for your home, even when you aren’t using it. Don’t let your fireplace get too murky! Schedule your fireplace cleaning in Edina, MN services today to help your home all year long.

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Choosing a Fireplace: What You Should Know

Monday, November 22nd, 2021

If you were about the choose a new paint color for your home or a new refrigerator for your kitchen, would you make this decision without discussing it in depth? Probably not! The same should apply to a fireplace selection.

We get the idea that a fireplace is a fireplace. But, much like a refrigerator or, more appropriately, a heater, there is more than one of these systems to choose from. And you deserve a fireplace that suits your needs in every way possible.

We provide fireplace installation in Bloomington, MN to guarantee that you are able to enjoy your new fireplace for as long as possible. Let’s discuss how you can make sure that the fireplace you select is the exact one you want.

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5 Reasons to Add a Fireplace To Your Home

Monday, October 25th, 2021
couple-fireplace-warm

A fireplace can take any room in your home and add the extra something to it–not to mention how much warmer it can make your indoor space. As we start heading into the cooler months of the year, you may find yourself wondering if it is worthwhile to add a fireplace to your home.

If you ask us, we’d say it might be. Sadly, not every home is built to accommodate a fireplace and chimney. However, if yours is, and you want a fireplace, we are more than happy to help. There are plenty of reasons why getting a fireplace installation in St. Paul, MN is a great idea.

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