How do I use an old fireplace?

How do I use an old fireplace?

Stack a few split logs on your grate and place kindling around and below them. Make sure the damper is open before you light the kindling with newspaper. Don’t use too much paper, as flaming scraps can be carried up the flue and onto your roof. Never use gasoline, lighter fluid or a butane torch to start a fire.

How do cast iron fireplaces work?

Because of the properties of cast iron, these inserts can retain heat for a long period of time. This means that even a long while after a fire has been extinguished, a cast iron insert will continue to radiate heat into a room. Longevity – compared to other materials, cast iron is incredibly long lasting.

Can I use my Victorian fireplace?

Can I use my Victorian fireplace? There is no reason why you can’t use your Victorian fireplace as long as some checks are made and potentially some work is done if required as decribed below to make sure it is safe to use.

Where is the damper on a Victorian fireplace?

A traditional fireplace damper will usually be positioned just inside the base of the chimney (called the ‘throat’ of the chimney), at the top of the fireplace.

Can I use a fireplace that hasn’t been used in years?

If you just moved into a new house or decide to try the fireplace that hasn’t been touched in years, it’s a good idea to have it inspected and cleaned. You may wonder, why? It’s because fireplaces and chimneys serve as a ventilation system for your home. Even furnaces rely on chimneys to circulate fresh air.

How do you use a non functional fireplace?

16 Ingenious Ways to Style a Non-Working Fireplace

1. of 16. Re-Tile It. Old meets new in this living room by Kingston Lafferty Design.
2. of 16. Paint It Black.
3. of 16. Incorporate Logs.
4. of 16. Fake It.
5. of 16. Use a Statement Screen.
6. of 16. Display Artwork.
7. of 16. Arrange Flowers.
8. of 16. Fill It With Vintage Books.

What are the 2 levers on my fireplace?

in your home are turned off when burning your fire. Also, some wood burning fireplaces have a lever to open or close the outside air vent to the fireplace. If your fireplace has this lever (usually located on the left inside panel) make sure the outside air vent is in the open (or up) position.

How do I know if my damper is open or closed?

Lean in under your chimney just outside of your wood burning stove. You should find a metal device just within the chimney or flue opening. The damper is open if you can see through the damper up to your chimney. If you only see a metal plate, the damper is in a closed position.

Are unused fireplaces safe?

Under no circumstances should you try to build a fire and smoke the animal out. Even if you no longer fire-up your fireplace, you still need to have your chimney cleaned and inspected annually. Think of it like an annual physical for your house.

What do you put in an unused fireplace?

1. A fresh coat of paint. Whether you go for crisp and clean white or something more vibrant, paint is a great way to rejuvenate an unused fireplace.
2. Flea market finds.
3. A textile lining.
4. Stacked magazines.
5. Wood, painted or raw.
6. Artwork.
7. Plants.
8. An oversize letter.

How do you close a fireplace opening?

If you want to seal your fireplace off for good, the easiest way to do so in a hurry is to cut out a foam insulation plug, place it at the bottom of your chimney, and caulk or weatherstrip it in place.

How do I turn my fireplace on?

Turn the knob from the “Off” to the “Pilot” position. Push in the pilot knob, which manually sends gas into the system. Push the igniter button once every second until it lights. Depending on how long it’s been since the gas fireplace was last used, ignition may take multiple attempts.

How do you start a fire in a fireplace?

Start by placing two pieces of firewood on the grate in your fireplace. Now crumple newspaper, which is your tinder, and place it between the firewood. Place the kindling on top. Add one or two more pieces of firewood on top of the other logs, and be sure to leave enough room for air to circulate around the logs.

How do I know if my fireplace flue is open or closed?

A visual check is one of the surest ways of checking whether the damper is open or not. Simply stick your head in the fireplace and look up. If you have a throat damper, the closed damper immediately above your head will block your vision. You should be able to reach up and touch the closed damper.