How to Use a Wood Burning Stove Safely and with the Best Results

Trends over recent years have seemed to change and go back into the previous generations. Cottage chic is something that has been taking off in home styling and many people are favouring natural materials for both their home interiors and for building, like these oak framed extensions https://www.timberpride.co.uk/oak-framed-extension/

Floral materials and cosy feeling rooms are becoming popular, as we wave goodbye to the minimalism, modern materials and monochrome tones that have been influencing the styles of interiors for the past decade or so.

Something else that has been becoming more popular as we look back to the good old days for our style inspiration, is the wood burning stove. Being able to sit in front of a warm fire on a winter’s night beats sitting next to a radiator! If you have decided that you would like to add a wood burning stove to your home, here are a few things to be aware of before you go for it…

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Be aware of the various types of wood available and what sort of wood is suitable for burning. Not all wood is the same and some will not be good to burn, and others will give of toxic fumes so it is crucial that you familiarise yourself with the types of wood that are suitable. Wood that is burned in a stove should also be seasoned – this means that it has had a year or two to dry out, making it better for burning.

When you are actually burning the wood, remember that when the air supply to the fire is poor, then you will get more smoke, which you don’t want. Nobody wants to sit in a smoky room, and this could also cause breathing problems, especially to people who suffer with breathing related conditions anyway, like asthma or COPD. The door should be left slightly open to the stove whilst you are starting the fire off, to get as much air into it as possible. After this, you can use the vents to control the air supply to the fore and ensure that it is not smoking too much.

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Regular cleaning is essential to make sure that your stove stays in good condition and also for your safety. Around once every three months is the generally recommended times to get your chimney swept if you are using the wood burning stove regularly. Although chimney sweeps aren’t as common as they once were, you can still find them and they will come and do a professional clean on your chimney, making sure that it is clear of soot and debris. If you have a fault or a blockage this is not only a fire hazard, but it can also mean that dangerous and harmful substances are getting into your room and you, and your family are breathing it in. They will also be able to check for faults like cracks and damage.

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