The easiest way to clean the inside of a fireplace is to use a vacuum cleaner with a long hose attachment and a specialized crevice tool. Start by vacuum cleaning the flat areas of the firebox, using the crevice tool to reach between the bricks.
Make sure you move the vacuum cleaner around, so that you don’t leave any ash behind. After you are finished vacuuming, use a stiff bristle brush to sweep away any stubborn debris or ash. You may also want to use a dustpan or old dust cloth to contain dust and ash.
Additionally, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the firebox walls. Once completed, you can use a fireplace shovel to discard the ashes in a bucket. Make sure to keep the ashes in a fireproof bucket in a safe place, away from flammable materials.
How do professionals clean fireplace?
Cleaning a fireplace is an important task that should be completed regularly in order to keep it in proper working condition. Professionals often use a few different methods when cleaning a fireplace.
The first step is often to remove any ashes and soot that may have accumulated in the firebox. This can usually be done with an ash vacuum or a handheld vacuum. Be sure to wear a dust mask and protective gloves while doing this.
Any loose pieces of soot should also be carefully removed with a small brush.
The next step is to clean the interior walls and floor of the firebox. Depending on the type of fireplace, you can use either a wire brush or a longer-handled brush to reach along the walls and at any hard-to-reach places.
You can then use a damp cloth to wipe down any excess dirt or residue that has inevitably been left behind.
The exterior bricks should be cleaned with a solution of warm water, white vinegar, and baking soda. Scrub with a soft-bristle brush, and use an old toothbrush for smaller cracks and crevices. Once done, rinse off the vinegar solution with clean water and allow to dry completely before lighting a fire.
Finally, inspect the chimney for any potential blockages – bird or animal nests, creosote buildup, debris, etc. If there are any obstructions, a chimney sweep should be hired to clean the chimney properly.
Also, it’s important to regularly use a mesh screen to keep they flue free of any larger pieces of debris so they don’t lead to blockages.
Fireplace cleaning should be done at least once a year in order to maintain the safety and performance of your fireplace. Having it professionally cleaned can ensure that nothing is missed and that your fireplace is as clean and efficient as possible.
How do you clean an old unused fireplace?
Cleaning an old and unused fireplace is an important part of maintaining your home and creating a safe environment. The first step is to give the fireplace a visual inspection to make sure there are no cracked bricks, loose mortar, fallen tiles, or other structural damage.
If any of these are present, you should contact a professional to make the necessary repairs before proceeding.
Once you can confirm that the fireplace is in good condition, you will need to remove any soot, ash, and debris. Be sure to wear a protective face mask and work in a well-ventilated area; you can use a vacuum to remove the soot and ash to avoid stirring up dust and debris.
If possible, you should remove the grate and clean it if needed. If it is badly rusted, it might be time to purchase a new one. If the metal is just slightly discolored, you can scrub it with steel wool and metal cleaner.
You will also need to clean the inside of the fireplace using a stiff brush and mild detergent. Make sure to give the walls and floor of the fireplace a good scrubbing to remove the soot and ash. Once you’ve scrubbed the inside of the fireplace, you can rinse it with a water hose or bucket.
Be sure to let the inside of the fireplace dry completely before lighting a fire.
Finally, check the flue and chimney to make sure they’re free of debris or nests from animals. If animals have managed to get inside, you should contact a professional to have them removed. You should also have your chimney sweep come to inspect the entire system for any areas that need to be repaired or cleaned.
Can I clean fireplace myself?
Yes, you can clean your fireplace yourself. It is important to note that it is best to use caution when cleaning your own fireplace, as the process can potentially be hazardous if not done by a professional.
When cleaning your own fireplace, it is a good idea to be aware of the type of fireplace you have, as different types of fireplaces have different instructions and safety considerations. To clean your fireplace, first make sure that the fireplace is completely cold and the fire and ashes have been completely removed.
Begin by taking a brush and sweeping away any loose and obstructing debris. After this, you can scrub the walls, hearth and the interior of the fireplace with a damp cloth, making sure to use specific cleaners on glass and metal fireplaces.
Once you have finished, let the fireplace thoroughly dry before using a vacuum to remove ash and soot. An alternative method, which is often employed by professionals, is to cover the inside of the fireplace with a fireproof sheet and then vacuum away the debris.
Lastly, use a dry, soft cloth to wipe down any remaining residue to finish the cleaning process.
How often should a fireplace be professionally cleaned?
Fireplaces should be professionally cleaned by a chimney sweep each year or after the burning of 75-85 lbs. of smoking material. This helps prevent the build-up of creosote within the flue, which is a combustible by-product of burning wood.
Fireplaces that have not been properly cleaned can pose a significant risk for house fires.
It is also important to have the chimney sweep inspect the condition of your firebox and flue when servicing your chimney. This helps identify any potential problems or damage which could lead to structural damage or possible carbon monoxide risks.
The frequency that you should have your fireplace professionally cleaned may also depend on how often you use the fireplace. If the fireplace is used often, more frequent cleanings may be advised. If the fireplace is only used occasionally, it may be acceptable to have it professionally cleaned every other year.
Regardless of the frequency, it is important to keep your fireplace properly maintained so that you can enjoy its use safely.
How much does it cost to clean out fireplace?
The cost of cleaning out a fireplace can vary depending on the type of fireplace, level of cleaning needed, and type of cleaning service used. Basic chimney sweeping costs typically range from between $100 and $500.
For a deep clean, the cost may range from $200 to $800. If you want lightweight debris removed, then the cost will typically be lower. If the clean requires more heavy duty equipment, like a chimney vacuum, then the cost will be higher.
If you plan to do the job yourself, you will need to factor the cost of the supplies, including a chimney brush and chimney rod, into the cost. Generally, a good quality chimney brush and rod set start around $50.
Depending on the size of the fireplace, you may also need a larger brush and rod which could be anywhere from $75 to $200.
How long does it take for a professional to clean a chimney?
Generally, it takes a professional chimney sweep from one to two hours to clean a chimney. The amount of time needed to clean the chimney depends on the size and condition of the chimney and the amount of debris that needs to be removed.
There are a variety of factors that may affect the length of the job, such as the length of the chimney, the type of material that makes up the flue and the amount of creosote built up inside. For example, if the flue lining and mortar are also in need of repair, it will likely take longer to complete the job than if they were in good condition.
Additionally, if you have had an appliance attached to the chimney – like a wood burning stove or furnace – they will need to be inspected and safety checks need to be performed. This may add additional time to the job.
How do I make my fireplace more modern?
Making your fireplace more modern doesn’t have to be difficult. First, you’ll want to focus on the materials and colors you use. Consider using materials such as glass or stone to create a contemporary feel.
You can also opt for modern colors like whites, grays, and blacks to bring the look up to date. Changing up the mantel can also help give your fireplace a more modern look. Opt for something more simple, such as a floating shelf, instead of a bulky traditional one.
If you want to go even further, think about incorporating modern touches such as a statement piece of art or paintings above the mantel. You can also go for a more minimalist approach, such as installing a linear fire pit.
Ultimately, the possibilities are endless and it’s up to you to decide what type of modern look you’re going for. With a few changes, you can easily modernize your fireplace and make it look like it belongs in the 21st century.
What is the average cost of refacing a fireplace?
On average, refacing a fireplace can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $8,000 depending on the size, type of materials used, and complexity of the project. For example, stone refacing may cost more than brick refacing due to the additional labor required to shape, cut and install.
Also, the more intricate the design, the higher the cost of the project will be. Generally, when refacing a fireplace, the existing interior surfaces such as walls, hearth and mantle are covered by new materials.
This includes stone, brick, tile, stucco, mantel, and many other materials. Depending on the materials chosen, the cost of refacing can range significantly and can vary depending on the contractor or supplier.
In many cases, labor costs can be as much as half of the total project cost, making the cost of refacing highly dependent on the contractor or supplier you choose. The cost of the project can be further increased if certain features such as electrical work, gas lines, and specialized lighting are added.
When completing a project of this nature, it is important to factor in all the cost components including materials, tools, and labor before making your decision.
Does updating a fireplace increase home value?
Yes, updating a fireplace can increase a home’s value. Several factors contribute to the overall increase in value, including the extent of the updates, the appeal of the materials used, and whether or not the fireplace is functional.
The extent of the updates will largely depend on what improvements are made, however adding modern materials like stone, marble, or granite can make a huge difference in the end result. In addition, a functional fireplace is always desirable and can increase the amount of traffic from potential buyers.
Finally, the amount of space that is dedicated to the fireplace is important and can influence the amount of money a home will fetch on the real estate market.
What does refacing a fireplace mean?
Refacing a fireplace means giving the exterior surfaces of the fireplace a face-lift. This can include removing or replacing an existing protective mantle, updating the brickwork or stone, replacing inserts and/or glass doors, and adding decorative trim.
Refacing a fireplace can take away the dated and worn look of an old fireplace, and give it a new and much improved look. It can also involve changing the color of the brick or stone, or adding a mantel or hearth to give a more contemporary flair.
In some cases, the refacing procedure may involve completely replacing the existing structure of the fireplace, as well as any associated components. It’s a great way to update a tired and outdated fireplace and to make a great first impression on guests.
How do you make an old gas fire look good?
Making an old gas fire look good is actually quite easy! Here are some tips that can help you spruce up your gas fire:
1. Start by thoroughly cleaning the fire and the area around it. Use a vacuum, dust roller, or damp cloth to remove any dust, dirt, and cobwebs.
2. Once the area is clean, you can make the fire look more visually appealing with decor. Metal surrounds or stands come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles and can really spruce up the overall look of your fire.
Wall hangings, vases or other ornamental pieces can also be placed around the fire for added detail.
3. If you have a masonry fire, you can also add brick veneer or stone tile to the facing of your fireplace. This will tie in with the existing decor of your home and give the old fire a bit of an upgrade!.
4. Lastly, adding a few blankets or pillows near the fire can add extra coziness in the colder months. Try having a few wicker baskets filled with warm throws and blankets near the fireplace. This will up the ambiance and give the gas fire a nice, homey feel.
By following these tips, you can make your old gas fire look as good (or even better) than it did when it was new!