Stoves, venting, and home systems explained
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.
By Gus Halloran · Sep 11, 2026Latest
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.
More articles
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.
Chimney Liner Kit: How to Choose the Right System
Match appliance and fuel requirements to diameter, material, insulation and finished dimensions, then compare kit contents and total project cost.
Cracked Chimney: Causes, Warning Signs and Repairs
Crack location, leaning, loose masonry, water and venting symptoms help determine urgency—and whether patching, repointing or rebuilding fits.
How to Close a Chimney Flue: Safe Steps
Wait until flames, embers, and hot coals are gone, identify the damper control, move it without force, then verify the plate is closed.
Do I Need a Condensing Furnace Before the 2028 Ban?
The 2028 furnace phase-out is back in court. Learn when an 80% replacement remains viable and how to compare it with a 95% condensing quote.
Heat Pump vs Gas Furnace Without a Tax Credit
Compare heat-pump and gas-furnace costs after the federal credit, including installation scope, local utility rates, cold-weather output, and backup heat.
How to Update a Brick Fireplace by Surface Type
Preserve and clean sound brick, or choose a recoloring finish that matches the substrate and location, then test it before committing.
Is My Vornado Heater Recalled? Check the TYPE Label
Use the bottom rating label to identify an SRTH, understand the June 2026 fire recall, and follow Vornado’s direct refund process without guessing.