While it’s true that well-built masonry work can last well beyond your lifetime, it’s important to note that, unless it’s properly cared for, brick and mortar will break down and need repairs. Damaged masonry isn’t a good look and it can lead to...
The joy that comes from the soft glow of the fire and the gentle crackling of burning wood is a welcome gift to any homeowner with a fireplace. That is, if the smoke from it goes one direction, as expected – up and out. If it doesn’t, the joy of a fireplace...
Safety is a priority nearly all people share, as is creating and enjoying a comfortable home. It’s totally possible to hold these values together and embrace the comfort of a fireplace, all while respecting the nature of fire by exercising proper precautions. Read on...
Masonry chimneys have reputations for standing the test of time, but as the years go by the mortar between the bricks can deteriorate and invite in water. Chimney tuckpointing is the process of repairing this mortar and providing a long-term solution to keep your...
A chimney fire is not always a loud and fast-paced event. In fact, it’s typically a slow and gradual fire that moves slowly and quietly up your flue. In most cases, it can be hard to know that you’ve even experienced one! …which means, you could be using...
Summer isn’t usually the time we use our fireplace, but that doesn’t mean it can’t bring in unpleasant odors. For those unfamiliar with the inner workings of a chimney, these odors can be quite puzzling. Luckily, the crew here at Madewell knows where...
Your chimneys see a lot of use during those cold nights of winter, but now that it’s summer, it’s time for you to invest in your inspection, sweeping, and any necessary repairs. Don’t wait for fall to come – schedule an early chimney inspection with a...
Many of us have used a fireplace for years, but how is it constructed? Let’s demystify it by providing a visual of the components of the fireplace with an explanation of each vital part contributes. Chimney Cap – A chimney cap is a covering for the top of...
Water is an essential to life, but it can be extremely detrimental to the life span of your fireplace wreaking havoc on unprotected chimneys. All masonry chimney construction materials, except stone, will suffer accelerated deterioration as a result of prolonged...
The chimney sweep is a person sweeps and cleans chimneys, smoke ducts, flue pipes and fireplaces in order to prevent chimney soot fires and gas emissions. The chimney utilizes the pressure difference caused by a hot column of gas to create a draft and draw air over...
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