How to prep your fireplace for the season

WENDY HELFENBAUM

IF YOUR COTTAGE sits empty for months, your fireplace will need some attention before you strike that first match. Daniel Kimia, a professional engineer and the managing director at Zoroast The Fireplace Store in Toronto, has some tips on prepping it. 1 LOOK FOR DAMAGE OR BLOCKAGES Make sure there aren’t any cracks in the fireplace or chimney structure, and clear away obstructions, such as animal nests or debris, in the chimney. 2 INSPECT THE COMPONENTS “Open and close the damper a few times to make sure it moves freely and will control smoke flow,” says Kimia. “Check that your chimney cap is secure and not damaged so it prevents water entry and animal intrusion.” Using a flashlight and a mirror to see around corners, examine the flue for soot…

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Cottage Life (Digital) - 1 Issue, March/April 2025

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