Fireplaces are indisputably cozy. They evoke fresh snow and hot cocoa, winter weekends spent holed up in rustic cabins, favorite stews simmering on the stove. While installing a real, wood-burning one ...

Creosote creates a sour, sickly odor. Slow smoldering fires or the use of unseasoned wood can create “cool” smoke and a weak ...

A fireplace can look fine from across the room and still be struggling up close. If the grate is packed with old ash, ...