Burlington Fireplace & Solar Blog

You may enjoy cozy fireside warmth all winter, but have you ever thought about how cold outdoor conditions affect your chimney? Even as heated combustion gases from blazing fires are exiting the home through the chimney, the exterior of the chimney masonry could be damaged by icy temperatures. Chimneys are exposed to the harshest outdoor elements, and porous masonry materials are vulnerable to moisture. If water […]

It’s a misconception that because gas is a clean-burning fuel that the chimneys connected to a gas-burning insert or fireplace need little if any routine maintenance.  The fact is, all chimneys need annual inspection and some degree of cleaning. If you have a gas insert or fireplace The biggest concern with chimneys that serve gas-driven appliances is structural damage. Even the sturdiest chimney can begin showing signs of wear as […]

The words “chimney” and “flue” are often used interchangeably but there is an important distinction between them. If you have a fireplace and a furnace, you should schedule an annual chimney sweeping and flue cleaning. How is a chimney different from a flue? A flue is an exhaust pipe or channel that smoke or gas […]

A fireplace in your home is an asset that can be capitalized on in many appealing ways. If your fireplace hasn’t provided the level of enjoyment you had hoped for, it’s possible to turn things around. Whether you have had difficulty getting hearty fires going, lack essential accessories, or need some inspiration, the following tips can help. 1- Schedule Chimney Cleaning If […]

During a Wisconsin winter, there is no better way to end the day than besides a roaring fire in your fireplace at home. Making use of your fireplace during the winter is also a great way to cut down on your energy costs by using it to zone heat your living area. The down side […]

If you’re thinking of going solar, you’re thinking right.  A main consideration in this decision is the size of installation that’s appropriate for your home, in other words, how many solar panels would be required. A starting point Powering the average American home takes around 9,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity per year.  Twenty-one 320-watt solar panels would supply that, making the total installation size just […]

Linear fireplaces have become darlings of many designers and architects. While homeowners love the convenience and other benefits of gas fireplaces, the fact that linear fireplaces are gorgeous, sleek, and incredibly versatile has won over residential and commercial designers. These heating appliances fit right in with stunning modern décor.  Extra-long gas fireplaces are ideal for lengthy walls matched with clean decorative and architectural lines. Learn more about linear fireplaces and why […]

A new solar PV system for your home is an investment. Depending on the size of the system, the investment may be moderate or substantial. When homeowners look into having solar panels installed, they sometimes are over-focused on the initial cost. If you’ve been thinking about going solar and are concerned about the upfront costs, […]

A fireplace is a natural focal point in a room. Take advantage of this show-stopping feature by designing a fireplace worthy of all the attention. There are many ways to make a fireplace pop. Here are some of our top tips to help you design a fireplace that makes a statement and complements your décor. […]

Fireplace safety is extremely important during the holiday season. House fires that occur from Thanksgiving through early January are almost 70% more deadly than at any other time, according to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA). On Christmas Day, two times the number of house fires caused by open-flame fires occur, compared to average days. In addition, […]