If you have a wood-burning fireplace, chilly weather has a silver lining: it gives you an excuse to make a blazing fire.

Fire becomes a fantastic focal point for a traditional or modern room. But before you start it, make sure you’re prepared. To help you out, here are ways given by chimney contractors to ensure that your chimney is ready for the fire:

Assess the situation

Not all fireplaces are visually appealing. Some have beaten-up mantels and ruined surrounds in older homes; in newer homes, they may need more personality.

In each case, a small alteration — or a few tweaks — can give a fireplace a new look without completely replacing it.

While you could replace your mantel with a new one, this isn’t always essential. Never underestimate the power of a good coat of paint.

If the mantel already has a finish or paint, lightly sand it to provide a smooth and even surface for the new paint to cling to. You should sand along the direction of the wood grain with a fine-grit sandpaper.

While at it, fill any cracks, gaps, or dents in the mantel with wood filler or putty. Sand it again after the filler has dried to make it flush with the rest of the mantel.

Priming is necessary, especially if you paint over a dark or shiny surface. A high-quality primer will improve the adhesion of the new paint and produce a more even finish.

When selecting the paint, choose a paint appropriate for your mantel’s material. Use a high-quality latex or oil-based paint with a finish of your choice. This can be satin, semi-gloss, or high-gloss on timber mantels.

If your fireplace gets exceptionally hot, ensure the paint is heat-resistant.

Begin by painting the edges and corners of the mantel with a brush, then cover the bigger areas with a roller. Apply thin, even layers of paint, allowing each to dry completely before applying the next. This prevents drips and creates a smoother finish.

Consider distressing or antiquing the mantel once the paint has dry if you want a vintage or aged look. You can achieve this by softly sanding specific sections or applying a glaze.

Add andirons

Andirons are metal supports that raise the logs inside the fireplace, allowing air to circulate beneath the logs and improving combustion.

A set of andirons or a fireplace grate is essential for getting air beneath logs and preventing them from rolling onto the hearth. They also improve both its looks and utility.

When choosing andirons, choose those that match the style and size of your fireplace. They are available in various materials, such as cast iron, brass, or stainless steel, and in various designs to complement diverse decor themes.

Obviously, you should measure the width and depth of your fireplace to ensure that the andirons you choose will fit snugly within. The andirons should be long enough to support the logs and have enough clearance beneath them to allow air to flow freely.

Once in place, check that the andirons are steady and securely placed. They should be level and not unstable because they will bear the weight of the logs when in use.

Add a fire screen.

If your fireplace lacks built-in doors or metal-mesh curtains, a fire screen is required to keep sizzling logs from shooting hot embers into the room.

There are many different styles to choose from, including flat-panel types that almost disappear while in use, folding models with numerous panels, and those that curve out into the room, which often seems more traditional and give easier access to the fire.

The most important thing is to use a style that is appropriate for the size of the firebox opening. It won’t accomplish its job if it’s too small, and it’ll look odd if it’s too huge.

The majority of fire screens are built of metal mesh. However, glass models are becoming increasingly popular. They provide a clear view of the fire and can block some of the heat, which may or may not be beneficial depending on the room.

Have a place for firewood.

You’ll need logs on hand to keep the fire going and a place to keep them. Many manufacturers sell metal racks and leather slings for holding a few logs by the fire, but almost any large-scale, attractive container will suffice.

You can also look for large, durable baskets made of natural materials that can hold at least a day-and-a-half’s worth of firewood. The beauty is that the buckets also collect dirt and wood shavings that fall from the logs, keeping the debris off the floor.

Clean the fireplace

Gather the appropriate cleaning tools before you begin. To protect the surrounding area, you’ll need a drop cloth or plastic sheet, a dust mask, gloves, a small shovel or scoop, a stiff brush or fireplace brush, a handheld brush or vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment, and a bucket.

You should sweep the internal walls and floor of the fireplace using a stiff brush or fireplace brush. This will aid with the removal of loose debris, soot, and creosote accumulation. To avoid damaging the surface of the fireplace, be thorough but delicate.

Use a glass cleaner or a vinegar-water mixture to clear soot or filth from your fireplace’s glass doors. Before shutting the doors, make sure they are totally dry.

If you haven’t used the fireplace in a while, inspect the chimney for any obstructions or signs of damage. Inspect the chimney for bird nests, trash, or creosote accumulation. If you’re worried about the state of your chimney, consider contacting a professional chimney sweep Ellicott City for an examination and cleaning.

Make it cozy

Place a large, soft chair or chaise longue directly next to the fireplace to create a cozy place to enjoy the fire.

You can also create spaces with cushioned stools that sit immediately in front of the hearth, just a few feet away from the flames.

As much as you want to get the most from your fire, ensure that the seats aren’t too close and are at risk of catching fire. You also should ensure that the seats are comfortable for you to sit in them for extended periods of time.