An outdoor fireplace serves a great place to relax with friends and family. You can also use it to cook foods that you wouldn’t cook inside the house. For the fireplace to continue working efficiently and safely you need to take good care of it. To help you out here are tips on how to take care of yours:

Regularly clean the fireplace

Whether you have a wood, gas, or any other type of outdoor fireplace you have to hire a chimney contractor to clean it. Clean the fireplace after putting out the fire. In addition to the regular cleaning you should also hire a chimney professional to undertake thorough cleaning of the fireplace once a year.

During regular cleaning be cautious that you don’t damage the fireplace. You should be more cautious if your fireplace is portable and made of clay.

Schedule annual fireplace inspection

Even if you will be using the fireplace outdoors it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t inspect it. For peace of mind hire a contractor to inspect the fireplace at least once a year. The professional should inspect all areas including the sensitive burners. He/she should also get rid of dirt, insect nests and any buildup that might be blocking efficient air flow in the fireplace. When hiring the professional be cautious of the one that you hire. As rule of thumb ensure that the contractor is experienced and a specialist. If you have a gas fireplace, hire a professional that specializes in gas fireplace inspection.

Make use of protective coatings and materials

There are many materials that you can use to protect your fireplaces from damage. Heat resistant paints are one of the items that you can use. You should paint iron and cast iron surfaces. You should also consider sealing the fireplace using sealants. For ideal results seal the fireplace annually or when need arises. If using a portable fireplace, protect it from topping over by installing it on a flat, stable surface.

Store the fireplace not in use

Studies show that most homeowners use their outdoor fireplaces during the cold months of the year. To protect the fireplace from damage, store it in a safe place when you aren’t using it. If you have a metal fireplace, apply some oil on it to protect it from rust.

Conclusion

These are tips on how to maintain your outdoor fireplace. Whether you are interested in chimney inspection or repair, ensure that the technician you hire is certified to do the job.