Stoves, venting, and home systems explained
Chimney Cleaning Tools: Build the Right Kit for the Flue
Choose chimney cleaning tools by flue material, dimensions, deposits and access—and know when damage, glaze or roof risk makes DIY unsafe.
By Gus Halloran · Sep 23, 2026Latest
What Does a Blocked Vent Look Like?
See what blocked combustion, HVAC and dryer vents look like, which operating clues matter, and when to stop checking and call for urgent help.
Chimney Chase Cover: How to Measure and Specify One
Identify chase-cover damage and specify the metal, drainage, skirt and penetrations without violating the chimney system’s listing.
Chimney Damper: Types, Safe Operation and Common Problems
Learn how throat, top-sealing and stove dampers differ, when a damper must stay open, and what to check when it sticks, leaks or causes smoke.
Chimney Mortar Repair: Repoint or Call a Professional?
Identify exterior, firebox, flue or crown damage; choose compatible mortar; and know when chimney repointing is unsafe or insufficient.
High-Wind Chimney Cap: When It May Stop Downdraft
Gust-specific smoke makes outlet turbulence plausible, not certain. Compare cap designs, then verify the appliance, flue and chimney-system listing.
Skytech Fireplace Remote Not Working? Troubleshooting Steps
If your Skytech fireplace remote is not working and no gas odor is present, replace the batteries in both the handheld transmitter and receiver, record the…
More articles
Firebrick Fireplace: Choosing Brick, Size & Mortar
Identify the fireplace assembly first; then measure the existing brick, verify the required refractory standard and lining thickness, and use compatible mortar.
Planning an Outdoor Brick Fireplace
Compare site-built masonry with modular systems, verify codes and materials, and budget the foundation, freight, permits, labor and finishes.
Chimney Insert: How to Check Fireplace Compatibility
Use the worksheet to measure the opening, hearth and clearances, then verify chimney condition, model-specific venting and local approval.
How to Choose Firebrick for a Wood-Burning Stove
Use the stove label, current manual, and parts diagram to match the approved part number, material, dimensions, shape, quantity, and firebox position.
Fixing Fireplace Mortar: Repointing Steps
Covers when a small joint is DIY-safe, how to verify location-approved mortar, prepare and fill the joint, and complete product-specific curing.
Stacked Stone Veneer Fireplace: Plan & Install
Verify fireplace clearances and compatibility, estimate stone, prepare the approved substrate, dry-lay panels, and support stone above the opening.
Refractory Mortar: How to Choose the Right Product
Match the assembly, substrate, exposure and repair type using manufacturer technical data, safety information and application instructions.
Clay Chimney Flue Liner: How to Choose a Size
Compare nominal, inside and outside dimensions with verified effective flue area, appliance requirements, chimney geometry and locally adopted code.
Abandoned Masonry Chimney: Seal, Repair, or Remove?
Use a five-option comparison based on verified use, masonry condition, water exposure, structure, energy goals, space needs and reversibility.
Brick Hearth Planning: Design, Materials & Safety
Before choosing color or pattern, identify the exact appliance, verify its requirements, assess structural support and confirm each product’s intended use.
Installing a Wood-Burning Fireplace Insert Safely
Use decision gates to verify fireplace compatibility, chimney condition, liner design, permits, commissioning, and inspection before use.
Tankless Water Heater Troubleshooting Steps
Check hazards first, isolate one outlet versus the whole home, record codes, test external causes, and learn which warning signs mean stop.