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Types of Fireplace Screens

If you own a fireplace, you may be questioning whether or not a fireplace screen is a good investment for your home. If you have small children or curious pets, a fireplace screen would be a well worthwhile purchase. It greatly decreases the risk of injury by adding a cover over the fireplace, which minimizes the likelihood of a person or object falling in. Keeping one’s home and family safe should be the number one priority for any homeowner and adding a screen is one way to do that.

A fireplace screen is a great addition to any home, not just for safety reasons, but for décor purposes, as well. Many homeowners appreciate having the opportunity to enhance their fireplace with one of the many design options now available. Increasing safety, while being given the option to personalize your fireplace to your tastes is a win-win in any household.

fireplace screens - Gloucester VA-Olde Town SweepWhen it comes to fireplace screens, there are a variety of options allowing any homeowner to choose what works best for them. The first thing to consider is what type you want. There are two major options to pick from on this front, so educating yourself on both is important in making the right decision. Read more about them below.

  • Flat Guard Screens: These are mesh screens that fit around the outside of your fireplace, completely covering the opening. If you have younger children in the home, this may be the best option for you as they greatly reduce the risk of fireplace injuries. It will need to be moved to tend to the fire, but this is a minor inconvenience in comparison to keeping your loved ones safe.
  • Screens with Openings: The other main type of screen also fits against and completely covers the opening of the fireplace, making it a safe option. The difference between it and a flat guard screen is that it has a door, making access to the fire much more convenient. If you don’t have pets or small children to worry about, this may be a better option for you.

Once you decide what type you want, consider the many style choices. Between traditional designs, antique designs, or something designed to function specifically for your home, there are countless options out there, allowing every homeowner to be satisfied with their purchase. You can personalize the color and shape of your screen, as well. Curved styles are available, as well as the class straight across types. Any screen style will add a personalized touch to your home, so check out your options right away.

Olde Town Chimney Sweeps has a variety of fireplace screens for any homeowner. Our experts can work with you to find the right fit for your home and ensure that proper installation techniques are followed. Don’t hesitate and give us a call today!

Is Your Chimney Up To Code?

As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to ensure that all parts of your house are protected and well-maintained for regular use. Owning a chimney is a desire held by many, but it does not come without a commitment to safety. There are multiple codes set into place by various organizations, all of which are instilled to keep people and homes free from the many hazards that will accompany a neglected fireplace. If you are not sure where your chimney stands in terms of safety codes and regulations, then today is the day to find out. By not meeting these, you put your home and family at risk.

Consult A Professional

Is Your Chimney Up To Code - Gloucester VA - Olde Town SweepBy contacting a CSIA (Chimney Safety Institute of America) professional today, you will take the first step in ensuring your home is safe. These experts are trained and educated on all chimney procedures and work hard to make sure that they have the knowledge to keep any home safe. To maintain certification, experts must attend training on a regular basis to stay up to date on consistently changing policies.

People who partake in this certification process take pride in knowing that they are capable of advising homeowners on maintaining safe and properly cared for chimneys. When business owners require this certification for their employees, they show that they are committed to providing the best service possible.

Chimney Cleaning & Inspection

One of the most important responsibilities involved in upholding an up-to-code fireplace is maintaining regular cleanings and inspections one to two times per year. Often, people will set these up right before and right after periods of more frequent burning. It is important to get this in before the holidays begin, especially if you are hosting any events. With more people in the house and fires being lit more frequently, ensuring that all safety measures are met is essential.

By getting your chimney professionally cleaned and inspected, you greatly reduce the risk of house fires and smoke backing up into your home. Creosote is highly flammable and, if too much accumulates, your home and chimney could suffer immensely. A professional will effectively remove this substance, using the correct techniques and chemicals, as well as dispose of any other objects that may be affecting your chimney, such as leaves or animal nests.

These inspections are also important because nothing can replace the insight and advice offered by an expert. A certified professional will know what to look out for and can advise on any potential hazards that should be fixed or replaced before any fires are started. Any small crack or seemingly minor flaw could be a cause for costly future repairs if not addressed right away.

Olde Town Chimney Sweeps can offer professional insight and ensure that your family is taken care of throughout the fast-approaching winter months. Our experts are CSIA certified and will work hard to make your chimney as safe and efficient as possible. Put your mind at ease and give a call today, 804-693-2859!

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