Installing a lock-top chimney damper is a common project among do-it-yourself homeowners. As fireplaces and chimneys age they tend to deteriorate from use, foundation shifting, and weather. This ...

Question: During winter, I feel a breeze coming down the fireplace chimney even with the hearth damper closed. Also, I think raccoons and bats get down in there. Will installing a chimney-top damper ...

A fireplace certainly is a pleasant and attractive feature for a home, but it can allow many unwanted things to enter through the chimney. Cold air and, depending where you live, an occasional bat are ...

Q. I read your column every week and appreciate the guidance. Here’s my situation: I have a two-story home, in which the living room and family rooms are directly over each other. Both rooms have wood ...