From the Floors Up

Choosing the Right Firewood for the Job

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Whatever your reason for building a fire, the quality relies heavily on having the right fuel to burn. If you are bringing some winter warmth into your home with a fire beneath your mantle, you will want to use a different wood than you would for a bonfire with your friends. Choosing the right type of wood will have a considerable impact on the heat and length of a burn. When it comes to burning wood in your home, using the wrong type of wood could actually be dangerous! Therefore, it is essential to learn what kind of fuel is right for your needs.

Hardwood vs. Softwoods

When it comes to purchasing firewood, there are two categories: hardwood and softwood. Hardwoods are denser, so they typically create more heat and burn for a longer time than softwoods do. This makes them the better choice for heating your house, whether with a fireplace or wood-burning stove. There are numerous types of both hardwoods and softwoods to choose, but Ash, Oak, and Birch are a few common hardwoods you may recognize when you are looking to purchase your own firewood.

Indoor Woods

Softwoods are not as dense as hardwoods, so they dry out quicker than hardwoods would. They also ignite better and burn faster than hardwoods, making them ideal as starter wood. Cedar is an excellent example of a good softwood to use indoors as a starter wood. If you plan to build your fire indoors, avoid using pine. It burns very easily, but the high sap and resin content can cause buildup in the chimney flue, which could lead to a chimney fire.

Outdoor Woods

If you are planning a bonfire with your friends, the type of wood you are burning is not going to make much of a difference, but when it comes to burning wood in your home, it is important that you make the right choice. The correct wood is essential in order to accomplish a long, slow burn and produce the most considerable amount of heat. Furthermore, the wrong type of wood could be potentially dangerous, so it is extremely important to know the basics before starting a fire indoors.

While the comfort of fire is always enjoyable, knowing your woods is vital. Remember to stay safe whenever creating a fire. Any questions can be left below in the comment section. We love to hear from you, and remember to subscribe!

Replacing Your Fireplace

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Every room deserves one element which can help contribute to the room’s overall feel. Fireplaces can easily be one of the most influential focal points in any room. A fireplace creates an elegant aesthetic to a room while creating an ambiance with the soothing comfort of crackling embers. However, some fireplaces are outdated and are in significant need of an update. These powerful architectural influences, if outdated, can really be a killjoy to your room’s interior design. If you are thinking about tackling this project, here are a couple of elements to consider:

Fireplace Remodels

Remodels can have a large assortment of tasks that are involved. Typically, hiring a contractor will be your best plan of attack for more advance remodels. Fireplace remodels will require some mortar work, refacing, and sometimes even ventilation work. You can also decide if you want to create a glass or mesh screen and a mantle if you wish. Before remodeling, discuss with your contractor if you would like to add any equipment for cooking or chimney replacement. Remember, completing this project early can help keep costs down later.

Refacing

Mortar repair is typically inexpensive. There are hundreds of options to consider when refacing the fireplace. You can choose from stucco, brick, tile, wood, and much more. You will want to check with your contractor that your facing will not create a fire hazard! Tile options are excellent, easy to clean, and can really enhance the look of any atmosphere.

Is It Worth It?

Fireplace remodels are great for helping increase resell value. It comes down to what you think is best for your home. Not all fireplaces will need to be remodeled. Some can simply be refaced, while others may be more advanced projects. Fireplaces are attention-grabbers and should be treated as such.

There are several options to consider. You can just repair or repaint your fireplace, or your fireplace may need to be refaced. You may need to consider a total renovation project, as well. Remember, if the project looks more significant than a DIY project, you should get a contractor involved. For more insight on home improvement ideas and tricks, make sure to subscribe!

From the Floors Up

From the Floors Up blog was created with the goal of providing a destination for consumers, designers and those interested in the flooring, design, and kitchen and bath industries. Here you’ll find, current, accurate and informative information that is always just a click away!

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