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A well-maintained fireplace is a safer fireplace. Regular upkeep is essential.
iStockphoto/Gordon BallRoutine care and cleaning are vital for a safe and efficient fireplace. Creosote, a highly flammable tar-like substance that builds up in the chimney and flue, should be professionally removed to eliminate one major fire hazard.
Ensure your fireplace and its components receive regular cleaning throughout the wood-burning season to prevent the buildup of soot, ashes, and creosote tars.
Here are some helpful cleaning tips:
- Regularly vacuum or dust the hearth area to avoid dust and soot buildup. Ensure that all embers have been fully extinguished for at least 12 hours before sweeping or vacuuming.
- Only burn seasoned, well-dried wood to reduce harmful creosote accumulation.
- Inspect the firebox, chimney, and flue annually for any creosote buildup.
- Never use water to put out a fire unless it’s an emergency. Doing so will turn the ashes into a paste that is difficult to clean.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners in the fireplace, as many leave behind a flammable residue.
- To reduce dust when cleaning your fireplace, sprinkle damp coffee grounds over the cooled ashes.
Now that you have some basic tips, let’s explore the detailed cleaning of various fireplace components:
- Firebox
- What exactly are fireplace inserts?
- Fire Screen
- Glass Enclosures
- Grates and Fireplace Tools
The Firebox
- The firebox is the section that houses the flames, typically made of either firebrick or metal sheeting. The fire's heat naturally helps keep the firebox clean, so it requires minimal maintenance.
- Use a stiff-bristle brush (avoid wire brushes) to gently clean the walls of the firebox opening up to the height of the lintel, which is the steel support for the masonry above the fireplace.
- Be cautious with firebrick as it can easily crumble. Also, avoid bending the edges of a metal firebox where it connects to the flue, as this can create gaps where fire could potentially spread.
- If your fireplace lacks an ash pit or box, scoop the majority of the ashes into a bag and use a vacuum to clean up the lighter ashes.
The Fire Screen
- Most fire screens are made of black-painted metal, but if yours is made of brass, clean it as you would any other brass items.
- For painted fire screens, mix 1/2 cup of vinegar with 1 gallon of warm water, and add 1 teaspoon of ammonia. Use a cloth to wipe both sides of the screen, then rinse with a cloth dipped in warm water.
Glass Enclosures
- Fireplace glass enclosures are made from tempered glass. Be sure to clean the glass facing the fire after every other use to remove soot buildup.
- For stubborn soot, gently scrape the glass with a glass scraper to avoid scratches.
- To remove smoke stains, combine 1/2 cup of vinegar with 1 gallon of warm water, and add 1 tablespoon of ammonia. Apply this solution using a cloth or spray bottle. Rinse with warm water and dry with a clean cloth.
The Grate and Fireplace Tools
- The grate is typically made of cast iron and can collect creosote or sap from burning unseasoned wood. Cast-iron tools can be cleaned the same way as the grate. To clean, take the grate or tool outside, hose it off, sprinkle with an abrasive cleaner, and scrub with a stiff-bristled brush or steel wool soap pad.
- For andirons and brass or brass-plated tools, there are various products available that can help restore their original appearance with some time and effort.
- You can also create your own cleaning solution for fireplace tools. To clean grime and soot, dip fine-grade (000) steel wool in vegetable oil and gently rub. Then, apply a polish to restore their shine.
