Homes Extra: Get Fired Up!

Monday, 12 August 2024 08:00

By Sara Whatley

Get ahead of the game and prepare your woodfires, burners and stoves now to ensure a cosy and warm winter, says Sara Whatley

It may feel too early to be thinking about winter fires and heating, but actually this is the perfect time of year to do so. Don’t let the warm weather put you off; if you get your fires and fireplaces prepared now then when the winter draws in you will be all ready to cosy up without a worry.

There is nothing better as autumn storms howl, followed by the biting nip of winter than lighting the fire and letting the glow fill your home with warmth. It creates a focal point in the room, and a cosy and calm atmosphere that everyone enjoys. Pets especially love fires, watch them happily stretch out and warm their bellies, as if it’s just for them.

If you already have an open fire or a wood burner then making sure they are maintained is paramount for enjoying their benefits safely. Regular chimney or flue cleaning is required – a least once a year – to ensure all the smoke and fumes can escape easily without being hindered by any build up of soot or tar, which can also ignite and cause chimney fires.

It is also a good idea to have a thorough clean of the fireplace or burner during the summer when it is not is use. Remove all the old ash; take out the grates of the wood burner for a wire brushing. Check for any damage and replace parts as needed, such as the rope seal or firebrick. Give the hinges of the wood burner a light oiling, and wipe down the outside with a cloth or soft brush. Do not use abrasive cleaning solutions as this could damage the surface.

Getting in a good stock of logs at this time of year will also save you time and possibly money when the weather turns. Whether you have a regular supplier of firewood, or are looking for a reliable source, Sussex is teaming with suppliers, from ready-to-burn logs or logs which you need to season yourself at home.

It’s important to burn wood that as reached the correct moisture level – 20% or less – indeed it is a government regulation to do so. If purchasing ‘ready-to-burn’ logs your provider is obliged to ensure this moisture level is met and you can burn them as and when you need, as long as they are stored appropriately.

Logs can also be obtained which have been recently cut and need to be seasoned at home. It takes about 18 months for hardwood, and 6-12 for softwood to season, so make sure you order well in advance.

If your home currently doesn’t have a fire (open, woodburner, or stove) and you would like to install one, what can you expect? There are many factors to consider, choosing the right fire for your needs and making sure the correct ventilation can be supplied is a must. Consider the hearth and adhere to safety clearance distances between the fire and flammable objects. Choosing a professional firm that understands current regulations is recommended to meet these standards.

It may be a bit of an upheaval initially, but the benefits are multiple, and a log burner can actually increase the value of your property by up to 5%. Of course, the relaxing and calming elements a woodfire can bring are huge, harking back to a simpler time when we were all more connected to nature and each other.

And finally, think how wonderful your Christmas and family gatherings will be with the addition of a fire. It is an investment that will give many years of enjoyment.

Homes Extra: Get Fired Up!

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