Here in Oxfordshire, there’s nothing quite like curling up by a roaring fire on a chilly evening. But the warmth and ambiance of your fireplace depend heavily on the fuel you choose. Not all firewood is created equal, and understanding the right type for optimal burning can make a world of difference. At First Choice Chimney Sweeps, we’re passionate about helping Oxford homeowners get the most out of their fireplaces. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through choosing the right firewood in Oxford, proper storage practices, and burning tips for a truly crackling good time.

Picking the Perfect Firewood in Oxford:

• Hardwood vs. Softwood: Hardwood is king for fireplaces. Denser and heavier than softwood, it burns hotter, longer, and produces fewer sparks. Popular choices in Oxfordshire include oak, ash, and beech. Softwood, like pine or cedar, lights easily but burns faster and cooler, with more smoke and sap that can clog your chimney.
• Moisture Content is Key: Seasoned firewood is essential. Freshly cut wood contains too much moisture, leading to smoky fires that struggle to ignite and produce less heat. Aim for firewood with a moisture content below 20% for optimal burning. Look for seasoned firewood or consider purchasing kiln-dried logs for guaranteed low moisture levels.

Storing Firewood Like a Pro:

• Seasoning it Right: If you’re seasoning your own wood, split it into manageable pieces and stack it neatly in a well-ventilated, dry location with good air circulation. Sunlight helps further dry the wood. Aim for seasoning for at least one year, preferably two.
• Keep it Dry: Never store firewood directly on the ground or against your house. This can trap moisture and encourage rot. Invest in a covered firewood rack to keep your wood dry and ready to burn.

Burning Tips for Optimal Performance:

• Start Small: Begin with a small kindling fire to get things going. Gradually add larger pieces of firewood as the fire establishes itself.
• Build Smart: Create a loose, pyramid-shaped structure for optimal airflow. This allows for proper combustion and minimizes smoke production.
• Burn Hot, Burn Clean: A hot fire is a clean fire. Aim for a good, steady flame. Avoid dampening down the fire too early, as this can lead to smoldering and creosote build-up.

First Choice Chimney Sweeps: Your Oxfordshire Fireplace Experts

By choosing the right firewood in Oxford, storing it properly, and following these burning tips, you can ensure your Oxfordshire fireplace delivers warmth, ambiance, and a truly enjoyable fireside experience. For expert advice or chimney cleaning services, don’t hesitate to contact First Choice Chimney Sweeps. We’re here to help you keep your Oxfordshire home safe and warm all winter long.

Here in Oxfordshire, a crackling fireplace is a cherished symbol of cosy evenings and winter warmth. But to ensure your chimney remains a source of comfort and not a safety hazard, regular inspections are crucial. At First Choice Chimney Sweeps, we recommend yearly chimney inspections for all homeowners. In this blog post, we’ll delve into why chimney inspections are essential, what they involve, and the benefits they offer.

Why Regular Inspections Matter

Your chimney is a complex system that endures a lot. Over time, creosote, a flammable by-product of burning wood, can build up within the flue. This build-up increases the risk of chimney fires, which can be devastating. Additionally, blockages caused by debris like bird nests can hinder proper venting, leading to smoke drafting back into your home and potential carbon monoxide poisoning. Regular inspections by a certified chimney sweep like those at First Choice Chimney Sweeps can identify these issues before they become serious problems.

What a Chimney Inspection Entails

A thorough chimney inspection by a professional typically involves several steps:

• Visual Inspection: The chimney sweep will inspect the fireplace and chimney for cracks, damage, or signs of water leaks.
• Flue Inspection: Using specialized tools, the sweep will examine the flue for creosote build-up, blockages, and any structural issues.
• Smoke Test: A smoke test helps identify any drafting problems that could lead to smoke entering your home.
• Cleaning: If necessary, the sweep will clean the chimney to remove creosote build-up and other debris.

Benefits of Regular Chimney Inspections

The benefits of regular chimney inspections are numerous:

• Fire Safety: By identifying and addressing creosote build-up and other potential fire hazards, inspections significantly reduce the risk of chimney fires.
• Improved Efficiency: A clean chimney allows for better airflow, leading to a more efficient fireplace that burns fuel more effectively.
• Carbon Monoxide Prevention: Proper ventilation is crucial to prevent carbon monoxide build-up in your home. Inspections ensure your chimney vents correctly.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing your chimney is safe and functioning properly gives you peace of mind and allows you to enjoy your fireplace worry-free.

Keeping Oxfordshire Homes Safe and Warm

At First Choice Chimney Sweeps, we are committed to ensuring the safety and efficiency of your Oxfordshire home’s chimney. Our certified chimney sweeps provide thorough inspections and cleaning services to keep your fireplace a source of warmth and joy for years to come.

Schedule Your Inspection Today

Don’t wait for a potential problem to arise. Contact First Choice Chimney Sweeps today to schedule your annual chimney inspection. Remember, a clean and safe chimney is a vital part of a happy and healthy Oxfordshire home.

For Oxfordshire residents, Contact us here to schedule your inspection.

Preventing chimney fires – Ah, the warm glow of a crackling fire – a winter dream come true. But before you light that match, remember: even the dreamiest fireplace can turn into a nightmare if a chimney fire erupts. Don’t worry, though! By understanding the causes and taking some simple precautions, you can keep your hearth safe and your home happy.

What Sparks a Chimney Fire?

The culprit behind most chimney fires is a sticky, flammable substance called creosote. This tar-like gunk builds up in your chimney lining as a by-product of burning wood or other fuels. When it ignites, you’ve got a recipe for disaster.

The Recipe for Prevention:

1. Regular Cleanings: This is your number one defence for preventing chimney fires. Hire a certified chimney sweep to inspect and clean your chimney at least once a year, and more often if you burn wood frequently. They’ll remove built-up creosote, ensuring smooth airflow and a safe burning environment.
2. Fuelling the Flames Wisely: Say no to damp wood! It burns inefficiently, creating more creosote. Opt for seasoned hardwood that’s been dried for at least six months. Avoid burning trash, construction debris, or anything else besides approved fuels.
3. Keep it Hot: Aim for hot, roaring fires instead of smouldering ones. Higher temperatures help burn off creosote deposits, reducing build-up. Open dampers fully when starting the fire, and adjust as needed to maintain a strong flame.
4. Mind the Gap: Keep flammable materials well away from your fireplace and chimney. This includes furniture, decorations, and even firewood. Remember, embers can escape and ignite nearby objects.
5. Cap it Off: When your fireplace isn’t in use, ensure the flue is capped with a tight-fitting damper. This prevents rain, snow, and animals from entering, which can cause moisture build-up and contribute to creosote formation.
6. Inspect and Protect: Schedule regular inspections of your chimney structure and liner by a qualified professional. Cracks, damage, or missing bricks can compromise safety and increase the risk of fires. Consider installing a chimney liner if you don’t already have one, as it improves draft and protects your masonry.
7. Have a Plan: Prepare for the worst-case scenario. Install smoke detectors throughout your home, including near your fireplace. Have a fire extinguisher readily available and know how to use it. Finally, practice a fire escape plan with your family.

Remember: A chimney fire can be devastating, but it’s largely preventable. By following these simple tips and working with a qualified chimney sweep, you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of your fireplace with peace of mind. Now, go forth and light those fires safely!

Standard Operating Procedure

• Arrive at customers house, call by telephone to advise of arrival
• Carry kit to front door or external access
• Put on disposable mask overalls and shoe protectors prior to entry
• Lay down disposable polythene membrane
• Get dust sheet from front door and cover work area
• Get kit from front door and place on dust sheet
• Plug dust extraction device in
• Carry out preparation, remove baffle or seal up fireplace opening
• Sweep flue ensuring that all kit remains on dust sheet
• Carry out flue flow test
• Wipe down any surfaces that have been touched
• Carry kit out to front door
• Top dust sheet to be folded inward and placed in sealed fresh bin liner, to be identified to job, date and time before being taken to front door
• Remove polythene membrane by folding corners inward and carrying out to dustbin
• Transfer all kit to back of van
• Remove overalls and shoe protectors by turning inside out and place in dustbin
• Sanitise hands
• Remove mask and place in sealed bag
• Sanitise hands
• Write customer certificate and place inside front door, add web address to certificate
• Shout to customer to come and close door, have distanced discussion concerning job and next sweep interval, ask customer to fill in form on website for reminder so that we can contact them and mention review on Google