Comments for How To Build a Fireplace

Comment on My gas insert fireplace does not heat well, any ideas? by Larry B

Larry B — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 14:55:59 +0000

the key to a better heat from a gas or wood in house fireplace is the placement of the heatalaterers (heatvents)
keep in mine that heat travels up and therefore a vent 3 foot from the floor instead of 2=3 feet off the ceiling will give you much better heat, 2 to 3 feet above the cold air vents on the floor is best.
References :
i did it and it works

Comment on How can I build a recessed shelf above my fireplace below my LCD TV to hide my DVD/Cable Box, etc… Thanks!? by bbt91945

bbt91945 — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 17:00:59 +0000

I do not recommend installing a tv on top of a fireplace if you are going to be using the fireplace. Heat is the worst enemy of all tvs and electronics. TVs should be mounted close to eye level to avoid strain on the neck when watching tvs.
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Comment on what kind of design features make a house grand? by Frank

Frank — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 18:20:59 +0000

Check out this site. I think you will find the classy style that best fits you: http://www.houseplanscollection.com
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Comment on what kind of design features make a house grand? by pissy_old_lady

pissy_old_lady — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 18:12:59 +0000

In a grand house I would imagine a large library with floor to ceiling bookshelves/sliding ladder/deep dark brown leather chairs/dark heavy wooden desk…that sort of thing.
You think of dark rooms and lots of wood, but I think of large high ceiling rooms but well lit with large windows, not dark at all (I do not like dark, dreary houses)…of course a large winding staircase with two kitchens and a back stairway leading to separate quarters for the employees.
I think of a mix of old and new design for a grand house..no formal gardens, no victorian furnishings.
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Comment on what kind of design features make a house grand? by Duct Tape Fixes All

Duct Tape Fixes All — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 18:05:59 +0000

I think of grand houses as having big windows, pillars supporting the second floor porch, which is closed in by French fencing. No stucco or exposed brick, it has to be painted wooden slats on the exterior. Chandeliers, expansive rooms filled with almost nothing, and a well manicured aura. Mind you, I would hate to live in a house like this. Give me the log cabin out in the woods any day.
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Comment on what kind of design features make a house grand? by ChanceEncounter

ChanceEncounter — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 17:52:59 +0000

Wrap-around porch.
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Comment on How can I build cabin fireplace from rock and cement? by William B

William B — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 02:50:59 +0000

the weight may be too much for the support,
i bought a wood stove, w/ lined flue, and a roof pass. and used fake rock to make a fire place look
less weight, stove weighs 300 lb
in my cabin
References :
old timer

Comment on How can I build cabin fireplace from rock and cement? by Roy

Roy — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 02:38:59 +0000

I don’t have a clue but here’s an important reminder: make sure whatever you do is compliant with local building codes!
Maybe the sources I’ve provided will help.
I don’t think it could hurt to contact the local fire dept. for info
Bookmark the last source for more help here & with all other questions.
References :
http://www.rumford.com/inste.html
http://www.askthebuilder.com/Fireplaces.shtml
http://www.ehow.com/how-does_4882274_building-fireplaces.html
http://www.cln.org/searching_faqs.html

Comment on We are looking to reface our brick fireplace and hearth. Any ideas? by Dan the brick man

Dan the brick man — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 13:58:59 +0000

not sure why you think you need cement board to run tile on brickwork…they tile blockwork all the time in bathroomsand locker rooms in schools…
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Comment on We are looking to reface our brick fireplace and hearth. Any ideas? by crossstitchkelly

crossstitchkelly — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 13:36:59 +0000

Are you sure that’s cement? It may be limestone, which is often used as an accent for brick. A common design element is to have a "keystone" of limestone in the center of the brick or stone above the hearth. If you’re looking for tile, check out types of ceramic tile, which holds up well to heat. It’s not very expensive, and it comes in several different shades.
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Comment on What is the small metal drawer inside of the fireplace for? by big dog

big dog — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 01:37:59 +0000

ok this is my guess, Old-timer is right if its below the bottom but as you state it its not its off to one side, i remember hearing stories of folks using stones to keep their feet warm in bed in the old days, this drawer might have been to put the rocks in to warm them up but still in a place that you can get a hold of them without burns. don’t know but that sounds right. and as for no brick wood burning fireplaces, their made out of all kinds of things.
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Comment on What is the small metal drawer inside of the fireplace for? by meanolmaw

meanolmaw — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 01:12:59 +0000

it’s a hideyhole for gold…..where it is says that when a fire was going, no one would see it due to the stack of logs and ash…. your house’s builder put it there for his ‘bank’…..
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Comment on What is the small metal drawer inside of the fireplace for? by boy boy

boy boy — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:36:59 +0000

its not an ash drawer …im a builder ..never seen a drawer in that position …and its size is too small for ashes …all so never seen a brick built wood burning fireplace …im sure you can burn coal in it …as for the drawer use your imagination
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Comment on What is the small metal drawer inside of the fireplace for? by Oldmansea

Oldmansea — Sun, 17 Jan 2010 23:53:59 +0000

In the back of your fireplace is a trap door for the ashes to be swept into. the drawer is for clean out of the ashes. unless someone covered over the trap door.
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Comment on What’s the best way to build a fire in a metal fireplace, when you have to use mostly wet wood (it rained…? by ericscribener

ericscribener — Sat, 26 Dec 2009 00:02:59 +0000

I left a link to a video - it’s awesome - changed the way we start our fires, for sure! The key is the starter he uses, but he also has some super tips for kindling. His chosen fire starter, which only costs about $6 and is at hardware stores everywhere, should start wet wood just fine. I hope this helps you get your fire started!
References :
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVJc0sCsyJs

Comment on What’s the best way to build a fire in a metal fireplace, when you have to use mostly wet wood (it rained…? by HalfHandy2

HalfHandy2 — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 23:37:59 +0000

It is obvious that it is best to dry the wood out if possible both for the sake of the burn and the sake of your chimney. Wet wood stinks and can gum up the flue with residue and moisture/steam. If you absolutly have to use wet wood and you have a burning grate in the fireplace you can use a road flare to get damp wood to start. It is very effective but dont let the flare set on your firebrick or metal box surround while it burns or it can damage it. It is a good high power match in a pinch.
References :
many years in the hearth business.

Comment on What’s the best way to build a fire in a metal fireplace, when you have to use mostly wet wood (it rained…? by larry o

larry o — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 22:53:59 +0000

use a firestarter and split your wood. it’s only wet on the outside.
References :
heating with wood 25 yrs and an ex boyscout

Comment on I’m looking for a fake stovetop fireplace pipe, any ideas? by Tom S

Tom S — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 22:35:59 +0000

Black, single wall stove pipe is cheap.
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Comment on What’s the best way to build a fire in a metal fireplace, when you have to use mostly wet wood (it rained…? by Luke

Luke — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 22:19:59 +0000

Prop up your wet wood a little higher than you usually would in your fire place (with a block of wood running in the opposite direction). Start a small fire under the wet wood with a little dry wood and cardboard/paper. If you do not have any dry wood, pick up a small fire log from the grocery store and use that. The small fire will dry the wet wood then it will eventually light…then when it is all aflame you can one by one put more wet logs on the fire without putting in out…
hope this helps
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Comment on I’m looking for a fake stovetop fireplace pipe, any ideas? by J M

J M — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 21:57:59 +0000

Check the trash behind a place that sells Carpet they should have some large Cardboard rolls. Just be careful that the card board will not be in contact with any source of heat. Have fun.
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Comment on What’s the best way to build a fire in a metal fireplace, when you have to use mostly wet wood (it rained…? by Mr. Worm Doodle

Mr. Worm Doodle — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 21:43:59 +0000

I make a fire with my dry wood and stack enough wood for my next fire by the fireplace. It actually drys back out pretty quickly
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Comment on Where can I get a cheap outdoor fireplace? by Cheese

Cheese — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 10:34:59 +0000

Try craigslist.org in your area.Just type outdoor fireplace in the homepage search bar and any that are for sale, will come up.Keep checking as new ads come up every day(actually every hour)
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Comment on Any suggestions about building sunroom? by This Old House

This Old House — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 06:43:59 +0000

Various companies make prepackaged sunrooms, but you would probably save money by having your husband do the work. Here’s one idea for a three season porch using stock wooden storm doors with interchangeable screen and window inserts as stationary porch panels:

http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/0,,1541906,00.html?xid=yahoo-answers&partner=yes

Here’s another idea, this one a screened porch, but you could adapt the ideas for a three season room.

http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/photos/0,,20053984,00.html?xid=yahoo-answers&partner=yes
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Comment on Any suggestions about building sunroom? by relax new yorker

relax new yorker — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 06:36:59 +0000

i would inclose it of course
put solar panals to save energy (but i know toronto (i am across lake ontario from you) and you guys don’t get alot of sun (when i been there))
that is why i would get all glass (like the eco houses is california)

but if your not green and ecofriendly person make like a cottage where you can have your privacy or an office

hope it helps
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Comment on I would like simple picture plans for building an outdoor upright fireplace with chimney? by LadyMacbeth

LadyMacbeth — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 18:03:59 +0000

This may help you
http://www.ehow.com/how_2148609_build-outdoor-fireplace.html
I have a new DIY site and I refer folks a lot to E-How.
References :
http://www.howdoyoudoit.com

Comment on Fireplace designs pictures!!!!!? by Drewfuss

Drewfuss — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 02:22:59 +0000

here is one that I did. it was quite easy to do with common materials, and yet looks pretty good. http://s1.webstarts.com/AndrewDHeathResidentialBuilder/photo_gallery.html
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Comment on Fireplace designs pictures!!!!!? by The ReDesign Diva

The ReDesign Diva — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 01:59:59 +0000

Here you go… this should help
http://images.google.ca/images?sourceid=navclient&hl=fr&rlz=1T4ADFA_frCA345CA346&q=fireplace%20designs&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&tab=wi
References :
I am my source: Diva Decors ReDesign – on a mission to help you ReDesign your space… whatever it is!

Comment on Is there a safe way to build an outdoor fireplace against wood siding? by Irv S

Irv S — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 21:26:59 +0000

A ventilated, temperature limiting, air space
between the fireplace and the wood.
In other words, for an amateur, no.
References :
Retired Construction Consultant

Comment on Is there a safe way to build an outdoor fireplace against wood siding? by Ralph T

Ralph T — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:53:59 +0000

You will need a heat resistant barrier between the siding and the fireplace. It will also depend on what material you plan to use to construct the fireplace.
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Comment on Is there a safe way to build an outdoor fireplace against wood siding? by Coco's

Coco's — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:38:59 +0000

you may need to use kind of a barrer…meaybe a sheet of metal as a firewall in between

good luck
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Comment on where do i find weber outdoor gas fire pit? or anyone saling weber outdoor gas fireplace? by aaronwilliams123456

aaronwilliams123456 — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 05:06:59 +0000

check out
http://ewins.com/item/WEB+27000/Weber_Flame_LP_Gas_Fire_Pit
web page. You should find it there.
References :
http://www.outdoorfirepitsonline.com/index.php

Comment on where do i find weber outdoor gas fire pit? or anyone saling weber outdoor gas fireplace? by tiredofbeingscrewed

tiredofbeingscrewed — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 04:46:59 +0000

yellow pages under gas grills/ fireplaces
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Comment on How to make a blue fireplace look good.? by Roxanne

Roxanne — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 10:50:59 +0000

That’s not bad. It stands out because it’s so WHITE in the room. If you do a taupe or a gray on the walls, it won’t show up as much. If you can’t paint, put curtains up and pictures and accessories. The room is too stark. Check out hgtv.com for ideas. Also before your paint check out paint swatches and bring them home to look at them in the light of that room. Roxanne
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Comment on How to make a blue fireplace look good.? by Mitch

Mitch — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 10:22:59 +0000

sorry hun, you can’t make that "flow in" or incorporate or anything… in my opinion blue isn’t a very flowey incorporatable color… but then again, i don’t really like blue much at all in houses… the best thing to do is to cover that nastiness with something better but not permanent. (and non flammable)
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Comment on cost to build fireplace in home? by beautifulmaria

beautifulmaria — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 10:09:59 +0000

Maybe you can check these different types of fireplaces at this link and maybe your opinion in having a wood burning will change and give you more lesser expense too: http://bestchoicefurniture.wordpress.com/2009/09/19/extraordinary-fireplaces/
References :
http://bestchoicefurniture.wordpress.com

Comment on cost to build fireplace in home? by HalfHandy2

HalfHandy2 — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 09:50:59 +0000

Dan the Brick man knows what he is talking about since this is the business he is in.
A masonry fireplace from scratch is a big ticket item, you are looking at $7K at least for a single story. If Dan says $10K then odds are it will be $10K. Brick laying is not cheap.
References :
I have been working in the hearth industry for years.

Comment on cost to build fireplace in home? by Dan the brick man

Dan the brick man — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 09:45:59 +0000

i can guarantee you wont get a masonry fireplace for 1500.00. figure 10,000 and up depending on whether its 2 stories or one...
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Comment on How to make a blue fireplace look good.? by Why So Serious?

Why So Serious? — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 09:39:59 +0000

I think it actually looks alright. If its just not your style i would try contact paper. Comes in many colors, and designs. Im almost positive ive seen a stone pattern one. Get a roll of it from walmart for around 6 dollars. Cover that sucker up!
contact paper is a renters best friend.

Also look for a cute fireplace screen/cover. A black cast iron would hide it with style.
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Comment on cost to build fireplace in home? by suellenh

suellenh — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 09:30:59 +0000

If you buy a new house, you can add a fireplace to most floor plans. I highly recommend that you pay the additional cost of building a fireplace that sticks outside the house rather than one that juts into the room. Seems like 8 years ago we paid about 1500 for a fireplace in our new home.

If it’s a house that’s already built, would you consider adding a wood stove rather than a fireplace; that would be much less expensive. I don’t see how you can use your desire for a fireplace to get the price lower on a house but you can use the poor market and the need of the seller to get the deal done.

Also, if you really need to know the cost of building a fireplace, contact a local contractor and get rough estimates. In this case it would be easier to add the fireplace to the outside of the house.

Sounds like an important step in your life - enjoy and have fun.
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Comment on new home with woodburning fireplace, ideas, tips, suggestions, for heat and looks? by curtisports2

curtisports2 — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 14:17:59 +0000

If you want to use it for heating the house, you need a fireplace insert. It’s essentially a wood stove that fits into the fireplace. There are very attractive models on the market that will not take much away from the appearance of the fireplace. You will lose the ‘open hearth’ effect, but it is the least wasteful use of your wood, which is not cheap. A good one should come with a thermostat-controlled blower to circulate warm air into the room. Be sure to use only wood that is seasoned and not fresh-cut (green). Green wood burns with difficulty, less heat output, and creates far more creosote (the black gunk that lines the inside of the flue and causes chimney fires).

Talk to local home and garden, or if they have them, fireplace specialty shops, about the proper way to select good firewood.

If you only plan to burn wood occasionally and more for aesthetics than heat, don’t spend the extra money on an insert. A good quality glassed-in screen will do. Get one that’s insulated around the outside to minimize heat loss while not using the fireplace.
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Comment on new home with woodburning fireplace, ideas, tips, suggestions, for heat and looks? by morris

morris — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 13:34:59 +0000

If you really want to utilize the heat, you should start with a glass door over the fireplace, not just a chain fence or grid. That way you can control the amount of air sucked out of your house. The next thing is to have a ventilater that circulates heated air back into he room. These are heating cost savings ideas, and they look good also.
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Comment on Which of the following is a principle of design? by straycat

straycat — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 12:56:59 +0000

If you didn’t want to find your own answers -you shouldn’t have taken the class!
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Comment on I want to install an LCD above my fireplace but where to put my cable box, DVD, etc? Any good ideas? by Stephen M

Stephen M — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 13:23:59 +0000

Robert,

Is this a fireplace that you use? If so, you need to think long and hard about what you are doing. Any consumer grade electronics like a LCD TV is going to be rated for a maximum ambient temperature of something in the area of 90 F. Any temperature higher than that is inviting rapid and catastrophic failure of your TV. In fact, in general, anything above basic room temp is a problem for any electronics and will cause a much higher failure rate than what would be otherwise anticipated for what ever TV it is that you are buying.

I would suggest that you perform a little experiment. Build a fire in your fireplace just like you might later in the season. Now use a thermometer to measure the temperature at the location you would expect to mount this TV.

I realize from a room organization viewpoint, you may think placing your TV above the wall is needed. We have the same sort of situation here. However, we made two focal points in the room instead and could not be happier with our decision.
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Comment on I want to install an LCD above my fireplace but where to put my cable box, DVD, etc? Any good ideas? by charlie tuna

charlie tuna — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 13:13:59 +0000

If you want it to look "tight" (sorry, not sure about your age but tight is a good thing) you can run all your wires into another room/closet/enclosed entertainment system and use a Harmony remote. (these things are AMAZING) You can set it up to do RF (radio frequency) and there are adapters that stick onto your components so that the signal can be received but the signal can be sent through anything so there does not have to be a direct line of sight. And if you have a DVD player connected, all you have to do it hit watch DVD on the remote and it will change the input, turn on/off the components that are needed/not needed and set everything up with the touch of ONE button (Great if you have children or a wife/girlfriend b/c technology can get really confusing sometimes) this can also do multiple rooms too so you can carry it around the house with you and the thing i love the most is that you dont have 10 different remotes… just one. I have the harmony 890 for the whole house and the Harmony One for the "man room" and if you dont want to do RF, you can stil use many different Harmony remotes, but you will need to run a RF splittler. (that is not the exact term, but it is a RF receiver that splits off like an octopus to connect to multiple components. and the RF receiver is about the size of your fingernail and would connect to a discrete spot on the TV to be able to receive the signal, this is a little easier than the "wireless" RF) I know that this may be confusing but it is hard to get the point across without drawing it out or talking it out but I hope this helps. Logitech.com is a good place to look at the universal remotes and the link below is the connector that you would need to do the wireless/non-line of sight setup.
References :
http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/remotes/universal_remotes/devices/378&cl=us,en

Comment on How do I start a fire?? by cp

cp — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 16:45:59 +0000

Many years ago when I was a cub scout they taught us to build a fire this way first put some paper or shredded bark (something that will light easy) down then some very thin small twigs then some larger sticks use these to make a Tee Pee over the kindling low enough that the flam will go through the Tee Pee when this is burning add larger pieces just make sure that there is space for air to get to the fire.
Good Luck
Please be careful have fun and eat a smore for me
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Comment on How do I start a fire?? by Mark T

Mark T — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 16:39:59 +0000

Charcoal lighter fluid will work.
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Comment on How do I start a fire?? by Vince M

Vince M — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 15:55:59 +0000

Be very careful about cooking food over "junk wood." You don’t, for instance, want to cook over painted wood. Unburned chemical can get into food via smoke.

Also, softer woods, such as pine contains a lot of sap which can also put substances and flavors you don’t want into your food. It also drips black, sticky, cooked sap onto the bottom of the stove and it will be hard to clean off.

The drier the wood, the hotter it burns. Best cooking is done over coals, so don’t cook when the flames are highest. Wait until it burns down a bit, and add only a little bit of wood at a time if you need longer cooking time.

A few wadded up newspaper pages and your kindling should get the wood started. Remember, light from the bottom up. Kindling and smaller pieces on the bottom, bigger chunks on top.
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Comment on How do I start a fire?? by William B

William B — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 15:42:59 +0000

start with a wad of news paper, lay the thinnest slivers on that, a lot them. add small sticks, then light, paper,
let the thin sticks start and add more to build the fire up, wait until you have a good fire base then add thicker things along with thin sticks, don’t over load the fire with heavy wood,
keep adding small stuff.
References :
a camper,

Comment on How do I start a fire?? by Paul in San Diego

Paul in San Diego — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 15:30:59 +0000

You can get fire starter sticks at home improvement or BBQ stores. They’re small sticks of wood that have been soaked in a wax. Put a few in and around the wood pile, and light the sticks.
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Comment on How do I start a fire?? by rin

rin — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 15:07:59 +0000

lighter?
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Comment on Beautiful, Unique fireplace mantle ideas…? by damon rock

damon rock — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 14:38:59 +0000

i once got a gigantic slab of flagstone 5′ x 12” x 2” and set it on some stone i added to the body of the original stone surround.. very rustic, very cool.
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Comment on How do I start a fire?? by ????????

???????? — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 14:22:59 +0000

buy a lighter at the local dollar store.
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Comment on Is it hard to build a Rumford fireplace? by HalfHandy2

HalfHandy2 — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 14:13:59 +0000

Honestly Rumfords are not a DIY project. They jut into the room so they can distribute more heat, but this also makes them prone to smoke if you don’t get a strong draft going for them and that takes a solid chimney plan that will suck air at a fast rate. Then this draft rate causes a heating issue because of the amount of interior air is is vacuuming outside.

I know Rumford styles are marketed as energy efficient fireplaces but there is no such thing. Fireplaces are inefficient at heating compared to furnaces and power vent devices. Rumfords were cutting edge and efficient 200 years ago compared to traditional fireplaces but not compared to wood and gas sealed units of today.
References :
I have worked in the hearth industry for many years.

Comment on Is it hard to build a Rumford fireplace? by johnyeam

johnyeam — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 14:08:59 +0000

Depending on your knowledge of firbrick, fireclay and the various refractory mortars you will use, it could be difficult. If you are interested in hiring and live near NYC, you could call Innovative chimney corp. They do great work. 1-866-899-8989. Good luck!
References :
http://www.innovativechimneycorp.com

Comment on I want to put a firepit on a wood deck - The manual says no. Just a precaution? by DAVE W

DAVE W — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 14:09:59 +0000

Put down a sheet of dura rock
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Comment on I want to put a firepit on a wood deck - The manual says no. Just a precaution? by Christine B

Christine B — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 14:00:59 +0000

We have a chiminea on our wood deck also, but one thing you should consider is putting some terra cotta tiles (the thick patio/walkway type tiles available at Lowes, etc.) under the firepit to save your deck in case it gets hot. You just never know.

We have 4 under our chiminea and sparks do fly out of that thing on occasion. It’s good to know that an ember won’t set our deck on fire.
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Comment on I want to put a firepit on a wood deck - The manual says no. Just a precaution? by milton b

milton b — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 13:31:59 +0000

This isn’t a teriffic idea, a grill mat is better than nothing but is not guranteee that you won’t have a fire.
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Comment on I want to put a firepit on a wood deck - The manual says no. Just a precaution? by thomas50stallings

thomas50stallings — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 12:51:59 +0000

They do put the warning on there to protect themselves against a lawsuit but if you place it away from any railings and insure it is covered when in use then I have had no problem with mine. I did however use a grid of stepping stones underneath to insure that any hot legs did not do damage to the deck.
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Comment on Where can I find the fan and motor assembly for a built-in fireplace heat exchanger? by Steve B

Steve B — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 12:36:59 +0000

You can call a heating contractor. If you plan on doing it yourself then you would have to dissassemble or remove the motor and assembly and take it to an electric motor supply place so that they can match it . There are probale some specs ingraved on the body of the motor.
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Comment on Where can I find the fan and motor assembly for a built-in fireplace heat exchanger? by grand lake bum

grand lake bum — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 12:24:59 +0000

Find the power cord and follow it. Hope this helps!
References :
tech

Comment on I want to put a firepit on a wood deck - The manual says no. Just a precaution? by plowmscat

plowmscat — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 12:12:59 +0000

I have a "chiminea" You know, one of those clay chimney things. It is on my wood deck. I have never had a problem with it. It is about 8 " off the floor on a metal stand. I have had some pretty good sized fires in there too. I do check the deck every know and then to see how hot it was getting. Never did.
They have to protect them selves from liability. Try a fire in it, small first and feel the deck under the stand. See how hot it gets.
The colder the weather, the safer it should be.
Good luck!
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Comment on Where can I find free blueprints to build our own fireplace mantel? by klondikeclayton

klondikeclayton — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 15:32:59 +0000

try handy magasine about 4 or 5 issues ago they did a write up on them sorry l dont know there web site
References :
my own little mind

Comment on Where can I find free blueprints to build our own fireplace mantel? by MASTERTECH

MASTERTECH — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 15:08:59 +0000

http://www.this old house.com. or just google free mantel blue prints. or just go to home depot and ask for their free class.
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Comment on Where can I find free blueprints to build our own fireplace mantel? by EnviroSci

EnviroSci — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:21:59 +0000

Try these

http://www.extremehowto.com/xh/article.asp?article_id=60392

http://www.woodworkersworkshop.com/resources/index.php?cat=395

http://www.doityourself.com/stry/buildfireplacemantel
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Comment on Where can I find free blueprints to build our own fireplace mantel? by prop4u

prop4u — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:12:59 +0000

go to the moulding shop...
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Comment on Where can I find free blueprints to build our own fireplace mantel? by leftcoastliz

leftcoastliz — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 13:41:59 +0000

I’d check out books published by Sunset Books or old issues of Sunset Magazine. If you’re in the western part of the U.S., they might be in your library. Otherwise, I’d see if there are similar do-it-yourself books or decorating books in your library. The librarian might help you find something. Librarians are often skilled these days in finding stuff on the Internet, too.
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Comment on how hard is it to build a chimney for a wood burning fireplace? by larry o

larry o — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 12:22:59 +0000

i have built 3 of them. they’re 1/4 the cost of stainless steel and will last longer. you don’t have to be a stone mason to build one, however you better be in pretty good physical shape. the higher you go the harder it gets. also make sure you start off with a very good footer. it has to carry a lot of weight. and use mortar designed for chimneys. good luck
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Comment on how hard is it to build a chimney for a wood burning fireplace? by Dan the brick man

Dan the brick man — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 12:08:59 +0000

i’m not a big fan of chimney block chimneys…if you cant afford brick , there are certain steps you can take…the liner is free standing inside the chimney block but if you spread enough mud it will ooze out to touch the liner and help stabilize it…do you know how to install your clean out door and how to go through the wall with your thimble? at least talk to a local mason who can give you a better idea of how to do this safely…he can talk faster than i can type and cover the subject in more detail…also start your liners so that when you set your liner in you are above the joint in the block by 4 in. or so …this is so that you dont get a joint all the way through to the house…i have built dozens of block and brick chimneys and several fireplaces and never lost any sleep over the way they were constructed…37 years laying in the same small town and still got a good reputation…
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Comment on My contractor did sloppy work, do I legally have to pay him if I’m not satisfied? by kojackremodeling

kojackremodeling — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 14:36:59 +0000

it will cost u more 2 hire someone else 2 do the job
try 2 b a good person he’s got u
u probably paid him more than the job is worth. try 2 settle with him. contact me if need 2
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Comment on My contractor did sloppy work, do I legally have to pay him if I’m not satisfied? by john t

john t — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 14:27:59 +0000

PLEASE DONT THINK THAT U ARE GOING TO STIFF HIM. 1) U STILL WILL NOT BE SATISFIED AND WILL HAVE TO GET SOMEONE ELSE TO CORRECT 2) SEND THE BOSS A CERTIFIED LETTER AND HAVE HIM ONLY VISIT TO SEE AND GIVE HIM A DEADLINE TO DO THAT (3 DAYS) AND A REASONABLE TIME TO CORRECT (7 DAYS) IF HE DOES NEITHER OF THESE AND IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEMS, DO NOT PAY AND GET SOMEONE ELSE TO FIX. DO NOT ARGUE, AND HE DOES ASK THEM TO LEAVE IF NOT CALL POLICE AND MOVE ON. GOOD LUCK. DO NOT OFFER ANYTHING TO GET HIM OUT OF YOUR LIFE BECAUSE THAT IS HIS PROFIT AND HE WOULD LOVE A LITTLE INSTEAD OF STIFFING U FOR A LOT. GOOD LUCK AND GOD BLESS
References :
REMODELING CO. 18 YEARS

Comment on My contractor did sloppy work, do I legally have to pay him if I’m not satisfied? by Samm

Samm — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 13:47:59 +0000

Well no you can’t. They will take you to court to get their money.

Take a roll of pictures, clear pictures that show the damage. Plenty of them. Have all of your paperwork together. Prepare a time line of the entire thing.

You will have to pay them, but if it goes to court, a judge may give them less.

Oh Yes, get estimates from someone else on what it will take to have this all corrected. Get 2 estimates if at all possible.

Then a Judge would know what to deduct from their bill so you can get it repaired.

Take the receipts for the fireplace to, to show the age of it and pictures for the damage done.

Get an estimate on what it will take to clean or replace the carpet. Have you had it steam cleaned by a professional to try to fix it? Keep your receipt if you do. This will show you are trying to solve the problem.

After you get the estimates for the corrections
Offer to pay them minus that amount. So you will have it over with.

Good Luck.
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Comment on My contractor did sloppy work, do I legally have to pay him if I’m not satisfied? by jdebord1976

jdebord1976 — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 13:13:59 +0000

You must pay depending on state law my state
says you must pay then you can get work finished from another contractor and take them to small claims for what you pay someone else ,take pictures first of the work though
next time get plenty of references he can put liens on the house and you wont be able to sell or refi, liens usually last only 7 years but judge can extend if work is done then you have to pay
they may say its to the best of their ability and you dont have a leg to stand on
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Comment on My contractor did sloppy work, do I legally have to pay him if I’m not satisfied? by Debbie2243

Debbie2243 — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 13:06:59 +0000

you have a verbal contract..you have witnesses…that the work was done.
yes keep him coming out even if he has to rerock the wall.He is due his money but you have a right to excellence. Contact a lawyer and sink a ton of money into a lawsuit or pay him..your only two choices…but you are legally bound to pay the labor…….
It doesn’t matter whether you signed the contract…the one you hired signed it promising to do it in 3 days . It was done in 3 days.
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Comment on My contractor did sloppy work, do I legally have to pay him if I’m not satisfied? by Mike M.

Mike M. — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 12:16:59 +0000

Payment is due when you consider it "completed". Let them know you are not paying until it is satisfactory
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Comment on My contractor did sloppy work, do I legally have to pay him if I’m not satisfied? by Jim7368

Jim7368 — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 12:01:59 +0000

I’d seek to settle with him for less. He does have material costs involved and what is "Sloppy" to you may be OK to others. Try to settle short and get a good experienced contractor.
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Handyman 20 yrs

Comment on In the episode of Divine Design, where is this fossil art from? by Roxanne

Roxanne — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 14:54:59 +0000

Have to tried going to hgtv.com and finding out there? And see if you can some how get a message to her? You could also go through Genevieve and she might be able to help you or ask Candice.
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Comment on help! decorating ideas for a fireplace? by ?? £ºv? ??

?? £ºv? ?? — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 16:58:59 +0000

CHOO CHOO COMING THROUGH!
THANKS FOR THE 2 POINTS~
|¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨—
|——–?–2 Points–?——|||"|""\__
|__________________|||_|___|)<
!(@)’(@)""""**!(@)(@)****!(@)
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Comment on help! decorating ideas for a fireplace? by sadie_oyes

sadie_oyes — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 16:49:59 +0000

Hang a large canvas/poster with a wall sconce on each side with flamesless candles.
http://www.fulcrumgallery.com/Dreams_50061.htm
http://www.target.com/Scroll-Sconce-Set-of-2/dp/B0015A87VS/sr=1-10/qid=1250769325/ref=sr_1_10/176-4930513-5549515?ie=UTF8&search-alias=tgt-index&frombrowse=0&pricerange=&index=target&field-browse=1038576&rh=k%3Awall%20sconces%2Cp%5F36%3A%240-%2424&page=1
http://www.target.com/Flameless-Tea-Light-Votives-Set/dp/B0015AP1B2/ref=sc_ri_1?ie=UTF8&pf_rd_r=1SYPADGX9SHTH8CRSVMP&pf_rd_p=481695491&pf_rd_i=B001183JXA&pf_rd_s=bottom-11&pf_rd_m=A1VC38T7YXB528&pf_rd_t=201

Easy to make a poster into a canvas.
Buy a sheet of styrofoam at a craft store or any home improvement store.
Cut styrofoam two inches smaller than the poster.
To make the hanger, punch two holes 1/2 inch apart 1 inch from the top in the center,
(where a hanger is on the back of a frame)
thread the ends of a twisty tie (the paper covered wire used to close bread) thru the holes, turn styrofoam over, make a loop and twist the ends together.
Run a bead of elmers glue along the edge of styrofoam, lay on top of the back of poster and wrap poster to the back like a present and glue down the edges, turn over and weight down til dry
Styrofoam is super cheap!
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Comment on help! decorating ideas for a fireplace? by Down Comforter

Down Comforter — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 16:34:59 +0000

What about a piece of art the haas the colors of the room to tie everything together. Or make it a little seating area by putting a little table and two small chair in front.
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http://www.shopdownlite.com

Comment on Portable Fireplace…. cheap? by ichyatnite

ichyatnite — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 18:36:59 +0000

i think i seen some on ebay they might be a little higher throw.
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Comment on Is it legal to use an outdoor fireplace in Wellfleet MA? by dawnb

dawnb — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 18:22:59 +0000

While I find it unusual that one can’t have an outdoor firepit of any kind, your best bet is to call your local county offices or fire department to find out what the regs are. It would be unfortunate that in such a great place as Wellfleet you couldn’t take advantage of having an outdoor fireplace but rules are rules. We love Wellfleet and have vacationed there from time to time. You picked a great location to settle.
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Comment on Is it legal to use an outdoor fireplace in Wellfleet MA? by Do it right

Do it right — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:55:59 +0000

Nothing like an open fire on the beach!
I’m in Mass, and you’re right some towns don’t allow open fires even if "contained" in a chimenia, fire pit, etc.
Your best bet would be to call the fire dept. on their non-emergency line and ask them.
Some towns’ will allow it if you have a working hose on hand that reaches the fire location.
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Comment on Neighbor installed outdoor fireplace-smoke enters our home and fills our house with smoke? by HalfHandy2

HalfHandy2 — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 17:37:59 +0000

If your neighbors are unresponive to your smoke case then you will need to look into some serious air sealing measures for your home.
Since the home is taking in smoke particles that tells me that you have some major openings in your homes air envelope.
Correcting this will help with the smoke and also save you on AC and heat costs so it is worth looking into. If you want a DIY solution to finding the air leaks then buy a smoke pencil http://www.smokepencil.com and on a windy day close up your house and check all the windows, doors fireplaces, outlets, etc.
If you want to hire a pro the best person to point you in the right direction would be an enery auditor. they charge around $200-$400 to do testing to find the bad spots and give you estimates of what it would cost to fix them and your payback. many energy companies offer this service at free or reduced cost so it is worth a call to find out if that is a available to you.
Like I said, If smoke particles are getting in you have a major breach that is likely an open flue or vent that is sucking in ridiculous air volume. It will be worth your energy dollar to look into the trouble, but still talk to your neighbor about the smoke.
I use an outdoor fireplace myself occasionally with the kids and if my neighbor had a smoke problem with it i would stop using it…but that is just me.
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Comment on Neighbor installed outdoor fireplace-smoke enters our home and fills our house with smoke? by Gideon H

Gideon H — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 16:52:59 +0000

break it while they are asleep MUA HA HA HA
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Comment on Neighbor installed outdoor fireplace-smoke enters our home and fills our house with smoke? by mish p

mish p — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 16:34:59 +0000

when your house ids full of smoke invite them over nad show them how horrid it is. I am sure good posiitive communication will fix things
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Comment on very ugly lopsided granite fireplace….what’s to be done…? by Ten Years Gone

Ten Years Gone — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 16:05:59 +0000

Just get a wooded fireplace surrond and mantle from a home center. It should fit over the top of the existing fireplace and hide the granite.

It will need to be secured to the wall and caulked in. You can paint or stain them.
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http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productList&N=4294961544&Ne=4294967294&Ntk=i_products&Ntt=fireplace+surrond

Comment on how to build a brick fireplace for cooking in a family home in a remote village in indonesia? by EVIDENCE is my god

EVIDENCE is my god — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 16:31:59 +0000

The #1 thing you need to do is make sure that there is a way to adjust the distance between the flame and the food. Different foods need different distances.

Basically, you need to do a circular fire place…something with a dome so that it traps the heat so you can do both meat and breads.

A sheet of metal is better than a grate because then you can cook more kinds of foods…

Here is the Dogpile.com Search for "How To Build A Brick Oven"

I’m sure that these links may help you.

http://www.dogpile.com/dogpile/ws/results/Web/How%20To%20Build%20A%20Brick%20Oven/1/417/TopNavigation/Relevance/iq=true/zoom=off/_iceUrlFlag=7?_IceUrl=true

The more compact and efficient, the less fuel needs to be used and I know that fuel is an issue.

A "Bee Hive" shape with a hole in the bottom for the fuel and a hole towards the top for the food, with a door for the food section, is the best design because it retains the most heat.

This design seems to be good for a large family:
http://www.traditionaloven.com/pizza_wood_oven/pizza_oven_2.html

I truly hope my answer helps.
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Comment on How can I get free shipping at Target? I want to purchase an outdoor fireplace and they want to charge me $50.? by Rebecca

Rebecca — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 14:28:59 +0000

I always get mine at http://www.discountwild.com . Try there
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Comment on How can I get free shipping at Target? I want to purchase an outdoor fireplace and they want to charge me $50.? by Blue Rooster

Blue Rooster — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 14:03:59 +0000

Buy on a new outdoor fireplace from thebluerooster.com. It will outlast 100 of the target products and shipping is free.
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http://www.thebluerooster.com

Comment on How can I get free shipping at Target? I want to purchase an outdoor fireplace and they want to charge me $50.? by pickmefirstplz

pickmefirstplz — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 13:34:59 +0000

some stores will ship it free to the nearest store
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p

Comment on How can I get free shipping at Target? I want to purchase an outdoor fireplace and they want to charge me $50.? by rooster_nugget

rooster_nugget — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 13:27:59 +0000

call the nearest target and see if they have it in stock for pick up. so long as its within $50 worth of gas, youre saving money.
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Comment on What’s the best way to build a fireplace mantle? by Bricky Local 9 PA

Bricky Local 9 PA — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 02:05:59 +0000

building one is fine but i would find a lumber mill who could cut me a solid chunk of wood the size i need …or go to a masonry supply and get a slab of stone the size i need…
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Comment on What’s the best way to build a fireplace mantle? by bill b

bill b — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 01:20:59 +0000

Build a box 11-1/4" wide by the length of your fireplace out of 2×4s, and cover all sides except the back with 3/4" veneered plywood of your wood species choice. Make sure all the outside corners of the plywood are mitered to give the effect of a solid piece of wood. This will give you a 12" x 5" x (?)" mantle.
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Homebuilder in MN

Comment on Has anyone built an outdoor fireplace from scratch, diy with little experience? by paul

paul — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 19:14:59 +0000

Yes but why would you want this design for outdoors. What are you planing to burn/heat/cook. They are not that difficult for DIY if you have some basic skills. I suggest you look further on the Internet for other designs. I got mine from outdoor books for decks and patios. This one was provided by a brick maker, that why there are so many bricks.
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Comment on Has anyone built an outdoor fireplace from scratch, diy with little experience? by Max J

Max J — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 18:44:59 +0000

That particular design is actually for a indoor fireplace used not only for astetics, but also heating of the room. The ones I’ve build both for myself and friends have been my own designs, and they’re not overly hard to build since heat dispersal for outdoor fireplaces and BBQ’s aern’t nearly as much of an issue as indoor fire places. There are lots of interesting options you can go with for outdoor fire places that aern’t fiesable for indoor fireplaces. I would almost encourage looking into a combination fireplace and BBQ.
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Comment on Does anyone have a website I can go to or any ideas about covering up a fireplace? by Zuko

Zuko — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 12:32:59 +0000

I actually love fireplaces! But whatever you do, don’t cover it up! Even if it’s completely unusable, it still ups the value of your home!

I have a few friends with fireplaces they don’t want to spend the money on to fix up. Go to any sort of home-decor store and pick up one of those giant candle holders… you know the ones that hold like a dozen small candles… you can put that in there to add a romantic feel to a fireplace that isn’t in use.

You can also just get a decorative sort of grate to place in front of it, so even if you’re not using the fireplace, it’s still a beautiful focal point to your room.

I hope I helped a little!
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Comment on Does a fire in a fireplace burn better when the outdoor air is calm or windy? by Carl R

Carl R — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 11:45:59 +0000

As long as smoke is not backing up into the room, no wind will cause it to burn slower. Nothing wrong with that. The stronger the wind the more draft and it will burn faster and hotter……….Just be sure you warm up the chimney flue with some burning newspaper before you start the actual wood fire……….This way, you’ll get little smoke back into the room.
(Chimney draws better when it’s warm)
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Comment on Does anyone have a website I can go to or any ideas about covering up a fireplace? by $Sun King$

$Sun King$ — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 11:42:59 +0000

Don’t tear it out. Don’t cover it up. It adds to the ‘ambiance’ of a room.

Just put a nice big bouquet of flowers in it. Or a plant.

you can go here for other ideas
http://www.fireplacedecorating.blogspot.com/
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Comment on How do you build a fireplace? by REAL SLATER

REAL SLATER — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 19:59:59 +0000

sorry but diy has taken the skill out of skilled trades. you could build anything out of fired clay bricks as was most of european ancient history but it requires a fundamental understanding not a couple hours at the home depot. respect that bricklayers are not lego builders and it actually takes some skill other wise you will end up with a very temporary, fairly dangerous, fire box. most of what we build today in america is a weak structure with a veneer not a solid structure.
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natural permanent roofing contractor

Comment on How do you build a fireplace? by pete m

pete m — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 19:12:59 +0000

I built a fireplace and it wasn’t too hard. The first thing to get right is the flue lining in the chimney. Once there are no leaks into any upstairs rooms then you could go ahead and express yourself with bricks to build the fireplace. Bricklaying needs to be accurate of course but there is a gadget for sale called a Brickie [i think] its purpose is to help you to keep the bricks level. Amateurs become professional with this useful tool. My fireplace is basically two columns of bricks, like small gateposts on either side linked by a metal support for two more courses of bricks up which is a wooden mantle piece. Over this I used wood panelling to ceiling level and fixed a large mirror to it. It looks fine and I am very proud of it!!! So get the trowels out and start work.
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Just to add. My brick fire place was built 12 years ago and complies with all building standards. In that time my house hasn’t burnt down! The reason I built it myself was mainly due to bad experiences with so called builders. In Ireland anyone can call themselves a builder, and the law doesn’t protect the naive house owner. The biggest chancers and conmen are handymen who think that they are builders in my opinion. You learn from experience but usually its a costly experience. Therefore, any building undertaking such as a fireplcace can be done by an experienced person and if mistakes are made they can be easily rectified. You save a lot of money and you get what you want wihout paying a fortune to a guy who is out to make easy money and to leave you re doing his dodgy work! Believe me most of them are con men. Get recommendations only from trustworthy people who have had personal experience …. no matter how long it takes.