Installing a lock-top chimney damper is a common project among do-it-yourself homeowners. As fireplaces and chimneys age they tend to deteriorate from use, foundation shifting, and weather. This ...

Jeff Somers is a freelancer who has been writing about writing, books, personal finance, and home maintenance since 2012. When not writing, Jeff spends his free time fixing up his old house. He has ...

Lexie is a former Staff Writer at Forbes Home and has over 6 years of professional experience as a writer and editor in the home improvement space. She's previously worked at sites such as HomeAdvisor ...

Where to start with chimneys? Probably here: A chimney is not just an elongated window, not just a portal from inside to outside with deep, brick sills. A chimney, in fact, is a machine for generating ...

As the temperatures drop, many people’s thoughts turn to wood crackling in a fireplace. But homeowners who haven’t maintained their chimneys may find that they must change the fuel for their winter ...

Fireplaces may smoke due to issues with the damper, flue blockages, drafts, or air pressure fluctuations. Have your fireplace serviced once a year by a professional chimney sweep to avoid smoke ...