Types of Firewood

All about the types of firewood and their differences.

FACTS ABOUT WHITE OAK FIREWOOD

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Oak firewood is one of the most popular firewoods in the United States. It is a hardwood that will burn hot and warm your home for a long time.

CHERRY FIREWOOD IS A UNIQUE CHOICE

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Cherry firewood is favored by many people. Cherry can provide you and your family with a beautiful, warm fire that also smells wonderful. The black cherry (also referred to as wild cherry) is a common tree spotted throughout Eastern and Central United States. Black cherry is a somewhat low BTU hardwood that burns with medium heat. …

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WARM UP WITH THE BEST FIREWOOD

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There are as many types of firewood on the market, as there are fireplaces. You are likely educated in the various types of wood accessible if you have been heating your home with firewood. The following is a summary of the most well-loved types of wood used if you are looking into a wood-burning stove to …

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HICKORY FIREWOOD IS AN OLD-TIME FAVORITE

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Hickory firewood is one of the top choices for many people and is often thought of as the number one species for firewood. The tree can live for up to 300 years and grow up to 100 feet tall. Hickory is a very hard dense wood making it difficult to cut and split. In fact, …

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Mulch Weed Control – Tips On Getting Rid Of Weed Growth In Mulch

Posted on April 9, 2019

Here is a great new article I found at gardeningknowhow.com Take a look and tell me what you think!

Weed control is one of the primary reasons for applying mulch, yet pesky weeds may persist, even though a carefully applied layer of bark chips or pine needles. This happens when weed seeds are buried in the soil or are distributed by birds or wind. What should you do if you’ve got weeds coming up in mulch in spite of your best intentions? Keep reading for a few helpful tips.

Getting Rid of Weed Growth in Mulch~

Manual Mulch Weed Control Mulch acts as physical barrier against weeds, but it must block sunlight in order to be effective. If you notice weeds coming up in mulch, you may need to thicken the layer as blocking light generally requires at least 2 to 3 inches (5-7.6 cm.). Replenish mulch as it decomposes or blows away.

How to Kill Weeds in Mulch with Herbicides

Other than hand-pulling, mulch is probably the single most important means of weed control. However, mulch works best when used as part of a multi-pronged approach along with pre-emergent herbicides.

When used correctly before weeds sprout in early spring, pre-emergent herbicides are one effective way to prevent weeds coming up in mulch. They won’t, however, do anything for weeds that have already sprouted.

To stop weeds in mulch with pre-emergent herbicides, begin by raking mulch off to the side, then hoe or pull any existing weeds. Apply the product, following manufacturer directions to the letter. Pay attention to the label, as some plants don’t tolerate certain types of pre-emergent herbicides.

Replace the mulch carefully, being careful not to disturb the just treated soil. At this point, you can provide extra protection by applying another layer of herbicide over the mulch. A liquid herbicide works best because it adheres to the mulch instead of falling through to the soil.

A Note about Glyphosate: You can use glyphosate to stop weeds in mulch, but this approach requires extreme care because glyphosate, a broad-spectrum herbicide, will kill any broad-leaved plant it touches, including your favorite perennials or shrubs. Apply glyphosate directly to weeds, using a paintbrush. Be extremely careful not to touch nearby plants. You can also protect plants by covering them with a cardboard box while you’re applying the herbicide. Don’t remove the box until the treated weeds have time to dry completely.

Preventing Weeds with Landscape Fabric ~

If you haven’t applied mulch yet, landscape fabric or weed barrier cloth is a safe way to block weeds while still allowing water to pass through to the soil. Unfortunately, landscape fabric isn’t a perfect solution because some determined weeds will push through the fabric, and those weeds will be extremely difficult to pull. Sometimes, good old hand-pulling is still the most effective way of getting rid of weed growth in mulch.
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Check out the original article in the link below!

Read more at Gardening Know How: Mulch Weed Control – Tips On Getting Rid Of Weed Growth In Mulch https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/mulch/weed-growth-in-mulch.htm

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6 FANTASTIC FIREWOOD BENEFITS

Posted on February 5, 2019

Do you know all the benefits of using firewood? Here are a few wonderful benefits of heating your home with firewood.

You will be self-reliant, which is particularly important when the electricity is unreliable or down. You are no longer dependent on energy companies and won’t fall victim to blackouts due to the usage of conventional electric and gas heating systems. During power failures, you will remain warm and safe in your home. I love that I don’t have to fear that my family will be cold during the winter months.
Firewood is a renewable resource. Thousands of trees are planted every year, so as long as we’re taking good care of our environment, we’ll have firewood for a long, long time.
Lower your utility costs. Even if you use central heat, burning wood is a great way to offset the costs of heating your home. The most cost-effective fuel for heating a domestic home is firewood.
If you aren’t able to take up an ax, or you simply don’t have the time to go chop trees down yourself, the great news is that other people will do it for you. There are trusted and reliable companies, such as Dobbelare Distributing, who will deliver high-quality firewood right to you!
Burning firewood is carbon neutral and doesn’t contribute to global warming. When the wood rots on the forest floor it releases the same amount of carbon dioxide as when you burn it in your fireplace.
A blazing fireplace produces a delightful atmosphere and radiant heat unlike anything else. And don’t forget, it will warm you and your family during those viciously cold winter nights, also.

I hope you enjoyed reading about these fantastic benefits that using firewood can have for you and the environment.

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For Firewood Delivery In greater St. Louis area call 636-515-6136
For Firewood Delivery In greater Chicago area call 815-342-7322
Call us today to schedule your firewood delivery!
Delivery and stacking are always FREE.

Dobbelare Distributing Hardwood Firewood is aged for a minimum of one year to ensure proper burning and minimize excess smoke. Our typical mix includes Oak, Cherry, and Hickory. Wood is available in select single specimens upon request.

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LOG CARRIERS ARE INCREDIBLY USEFUL

Posted on January 31, 2019

canvas-log-carrier

Are you tired of getting splinters and having debris all over your floor? You need a log carrier! If you use your fireplace, a log carrier is a piece of equipment you might want to consider buying.

Log carriers are bags made of strong, durable fabric in order to limit the risk of splinters, a spill, or tearing under the weight of heavy firewood. These carriers are designed to take a beating and still look good and work great! Be sure to buy or make a high-quality product.

They also keep the mess confined while carrying firewood through your home. Unlike when you simply carry the wood inside with your hands, the debris will be contained within the carrier and your clothes, floors, and carpets will stay clean.

This product makes carrying large quantities of heavy firewood a much easier job. Use it in conjunction with your home or cabin’s fireplace or fire pit, or while camping.

Here is a link to a list of 12 quality log carriers, from cheap ($15) to expensive ($100+).

If you’d rather DIY your log carrier, here are two different articles for you.

Canvas Log Carrier with Dowels
Canvas Log Carrier with Rope

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TREES ARE A FANTASTIC RENEWABLE RESOURCE

Posted on January 8, 2019

Firewood! Just the thought of it evokes coziness, relaxation, and elbow grease. That’s right, a lot of work as just one cord of wood weighs more than 4000 pounds. And imagine how many times it will need to be dealt with between stump and fireside. Ready to learn what your firewood goes through before it arrives at your door, ready to make you warm and cozy?

First, the tree is chopped down, cut into fire logs and loaded for transport. Second, the logs will be split and stacked for seasoning, usually for a year at least. Third, the firewood is loaded for shipment to the customer. Fourth, the wood is stacked for dry storage until required. And fifth, at last, the log is carried to the fire. That’s five multiplied by two tons or ten tons of hoisting for every single cord of wood burned. Now I ask you, is firewood truly worth so much work? My answer is “Of course!”

Look at the positive aspects. Nothing tempers the chilly water-logged days like the crackling heat of a wood fire. And the old proverb, wood heats you twice, or in my case, six times point out the healthy aspects of firewood. Consider our energy problem and the deteriorating environment. Oil spills, acid rain, and nuclear accidents are causes for choosing wood to stand in for less desirable fuels. Most significantly, think about the accessibility of firewood.

On a regular basis, firewood is made available for the taking by property owners who need to get rid of the unwanted debris. And isn’t it a relief to know that when the lamps fade out a result of a power outage there is still at least one household appliance that keeps functioning– the friendly woodstove.

Firewood is one of the best renewable resources on our planet! It creates a wonderful ambiance, and the benefits to the environment when you use it instead of more harmful options are wonderful too. Order yours today from Dobbelare Distributing!

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For Firewood Delivery In greater St. Louis area call 636-515-6136
For Firewood Delivery In greater Chicago area call 815-342-7322
Call us today to schedule your firewood delivery!
Delivery and stacking are always FREE.

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FACTS ABOUT WHITE OAK FIREWOOD

Posted on January 3, 2019

Oak firewood is one of the most popular firewoods in the United States. It is a hardwood that will burn hot and warm your home for a long time.

White oak is among the most preferred kinds of firewood used in the United States, with red oak following closely in use. White oak burns hot without having much smoke, yet it is not easy to split.

Recently cut, or green, wood retains water and is troublesome to burn. White oak especially must be seasoned prior to being burned. Make it possible for it to dry out for a minimum of one full year before putting to use as firewood.

Moisture content in firewood and the temperature at which it is burned determines the amount of creosote that is created inside a chimney. Typically, softwoods such as pines– not hardwoods such as oaks– make the highest amount of creosote.

Assessed in British Thermal Units (BTUs), white oak places with the hottest burning woods in the United States, at 30,600,000 BTUs per cord of dried wood. Red oak produces 27,300,000 BTUs per cord.

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IS YOUR FIREPLACE TODDLER-PROOFED?

Posted on January 1, 2019

So you have both a fireplace and a wobbling toddler in your home. Oh dear.

This can be a delicate combination, especially if you actually desire to ever use your fireplace. But don’t worry quite so much; here are some safety recommendations to help your family make the entire fireplace area a much safer place for the kiddo.

Fireplace Safety Gates

Here’s the thing: if you actually want to use your fireplace, you should really buy a baby gate. It is the easiest way to secure your fireplace against tiny tot invaders. It might not be what you had in mind when you picked out the room’s décor, but your child will be so much safer. And honestly, it’s such a relief to have.

Ideally, you want one that will attach securely to the walls with screws. This ensures that it won’t fall when your toddler grabs it. A free-standing gate is not safe when toddlers are toddling around; it’s very easy for them to latch on and as a result, the gate will crash down. These safety gates are usually heavy, so you don’t want it to come down on top of anyone.

You should also be sure you still have easy access to the fireplace through the gate. Preferably the gate will have a retractable or swing-out gate. Any decent gate of this type will be impossible for a toddler to open themselves, though you will need to be cautionary as they get older because they might learn by watching! In the warmer months when the fireplace is not in use, this gate can be used elsewhere in your home, near stairs or other areas.

Where to Place your Gate

For those with a wood-burning fireplace, placing your gate farther back is the best idea. This way, your children will also be protected from embers and sparks popping from the fire. And don’t forget your essential fireplace tool set, which needs to be by the fireplace but is undoubtedly dangerous for young children to be around. This is even more reason to get a fireplace gate. Otherwise, you’ll have to put your sharp fireplace tools in a closet somewhere—or perhaps a locked cabinet—and it will be a pain to access them every time.

If your home has a gas fireplace, it is okay to fix your gate much closer since there are no popping sparks. Fireplace safety gates will also protect toddlers from burns due to touching the hot glass covering the gas fireplace. This happens far more than you’d think. Over 200 children per year get third-degree burns from touching hot fireplace surfaces.

The Hearth

Stepped hearths are slightly riskier due to their overhanging edges. Toddlers can easily walk into the hearth and scrape their skin on the coarse and sharp edges. Here are a few options to safeguard your wobbly walker. Don’t worry!

There are commercial pads you can buy online and in stores that are very highly rated. Typically, a package will provide edge pieces and two corner pieces, as well as double-sided tape to stick to the surface of your hearth. So when your child bumps into the edge, they won’t be scraped.

An upgraded version also exists that covers the ENTIRE hearth, not just the edges. With this pad, the whole horizontal surface will be kid/scrape-proof. Not only does this protect your kid from injuries on the hearth, but it also provides some extra seating. On the downside, most of the pads that cover the entire hearth usually say not to use the fireplace.

This winter season, be sure to watch out for the safety of young children near your fireplace. With these safeguards, hopefully, you’ll have an easier time keeping your toddler safe while they adventure throughout your home!

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WHAT FIREWOOD IS THE MOST AROMATIC?

Posted on December 25, 2018

So, when building a wood fire, what type of firewood should you use according to the scent you desire? Each wood species has its own unique scent when burning, and you have a vast selection to choose from.

Here’s a quick introduction to some of the most popular and widely-used types of firewood.

Since scent is such a subjective characteristic, it is sometimes difficult to choose based on what other people prefer. Because scents are so problematic to describe out loud, usually descriptions are vague. However, if a smell brings to mind another recognized scent, usually it will be added to the description. For example, rosewood smells like roses.

Apple – mildly smoky, sweet scent, like apple perfume, very popular for cooking all kinds of food

Cherry – mild fruity scent and flavor, used to cook pork

Maple – a mellow, somewhat sweet aroma and flavor, smokey. Commonly used to smoke fish and pork.

Hickory – a strong sweet scent and flavor, sometimes described as having bacony flavor, used for smoking many meats and foods.

Pine – sometimes leaves a strong pine smell behind, this can be a bit overwhelming inside, but is wonderful outdoors. Many people also associate the winter season with the scent of pine.

Lilac – light, subtle smoke scent and flavor, floral tones, very popular for grilling fish

Oak – sweet scent, very pleasant and homey. Used to smoke many different meats and foods.

Have a wonderful time curling up in front of your crackling fire!

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7+ MOST POPULAR KINDS OF REAL CHRISTMAS TREES

Posted on December 18, 2018

There are numerous types of real Christmas trees, all of which are a great choice over artificial if your family wants a real tree in the home this holiday season. This article goes over a few different types, and their pros and cons. Choose the best tree for you and your family!

The most common type of Christmas trees is the six-foot Scotch pines, which fit nicely into the average home living room. The needles on this tree don’t usually fall even when they’re dry, so it is a wonderful tree to display for the holiday season.

White Pine tree branches are often used in wreaths, garlands, and centerpieces due to their long, feathery, soft needles. Although the branches can sometimes be a bit too flexible to support heavier ornaments, it is nonetheless a gorgeous tree to look at.

One kind of Christmas tree is the Deodora cedar, which has blue-green short needles with pendulous needle tips. Another cedar, the Eastern red, has shiny dark green leaves. It emits a great scent, reminding people of
cedar chests and crushed fruit. Though it will only last 2-3 weeks so be sure to buy it close to the big day. Though its sticky to the touch, it dries out swiftly it is best chosen in a humid climate.

One of the most popular of Christmas trees in the southeast part of the U.S. is the Leland Cypress. This tree has dark green or gray foliage. The branches are feathery and its scent is pleasing but light. This tree is ideal in the homes of people with allergy problems.

The Douglas fir is a popular type of Christmas tree, and easily flocked. It has a great fragrance and lives longer than a lot of other trees. Its leaves are either dark green or blue. Its sister fir, the Fraser, has needles that are flatter and dark green. It holds its needles well and gives off a pleasant aroma.

For a more citrus aroma from your Christmas tree you can pick the grand fir, with dark green shiny needles. If you desire a more durable tree that can hold your heaviest ornaments the noble fir is a great option. With proper care, it will live a long and healthy life as a Christmas tree. This fir makes an eye-catching, strong and durable wreath as well.

Pine and spruce are two other types of Christmas trees that are very commonly used. The pine has a wonderful, classic fragrance. The spruce dries quickly, and its needles drop rapidly. It might not be a good choice if you want a long-term display tree.

This holiday season, pick your tree carefully!

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FIREPIT SAFETY DURING WINTER

Posted on December 11, 2018

Not everyone wants to hunker down and hibernate the entire winter away. In fact, backyard fire pit usage has been growing in popularity. More and more people are appreciating chilly winter evenings outdoors, in the comfort of their own backyards.

Alongside this trend is the need to increase awareness of residential fire safety basics, and common sense steps taken when having a fire during wintertime. Let’s take a few moments to go over fire pit safety during the winter.

As with any outdoor fire, whether in your backyard, at a campground, or anywhere else, pay careful attention to the foliage in the area. During fall, plant material and dried leaves can gather near the fire pit. If a stray ember lands upon the pile, it will ignite and burn quickly. Clearing any dead vegetation from around the fire pit to at least 10 feet is the best way to be safe. That way, if you burn soft woods to create that fantastic crackle we all adore, the popping embers won’t have any fuel to land on.

Most firepits and tables are constructed using weather resistant, low maintenance material, so you can leave it outside when the temperature drops without needing to worry about causing damage. It’s still a good idea to use a custom vinyl cover to protect your fire pit when you’re not using it. It will keep your investment protected from rain, snow, and falling leaves, which will mean less cleaning and make it easier to use – just remove the cover and dump the snow off several feet away.

Paying attention to the weather is also important, aside from the fact that it’s cold outside and you want to speedily make a fire to warm up your hands. It may seem obvious, but even just a subtle wind can flare up a wood burning fire very rapidly. Hot embers will fly and there isn’t much you can do when this happens. If the wind picks up, extinguish the fire as soon as possible with water (having sand or a fire extinguisher on hand are also good ideas). Although some don’t follow preventive measures, it really is crucial to own a spark guard cover to keep the embers inside if you are burning wood. Most models are accompanied by one when you buy them.

If you own a gas-powered fire pit, there are some maintenance related matters you should be aware of before starting your first fire of the winter season:
1. Examine the gas feed hose leading from the propane tank to the gas valve and ensure there are no cracks, and that the hose connections are secure. If there is ANY sign of cracking at all, replace the hose immediately, BEFORE you turn it on or use it.
2. Turn on the propane gas valve at the tank and listen for any hissing noise. Just because you don’t hear a leak, doesn’t mean there isn’t one. Propane has a distinctive rotten egg scent, so if you smell anything similar, turn the valve off immediately and call a qualified repairman to inspect your fire pit before you use it. Why risk your life?
3. If no smells or leaks are present, start the fire normally and look at the flame. If it is burning unevenly or is very yellow in color, the burner is probably clogged up. Turn off the gas and examine the burner for debris which might be plugging the burner holes. Clean and repeat this step.

By following just a few fire pit maintenance and safety tips, and general residential fire safety guidelines, it’s easier to have fun knowing you’re being safe. You can enjoy a delightful fire outdoors with family and friends.

Why stay inside during the winter when your warm fire pit awaits you?

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PREVENTING A PEST INVASION

Posted on December 6, 2018

Many people enjoy having a fireplace or wood-burning stove in their homes for the warmth, and comforting and homey feelings they bring — particularly during the chilly winter months. But sometimes firewood isn’t always quite as comforting when in the home, as there are several household pests that can unintentionally be moved in alongside your firewood.

When you’re snug as a bug, curled up on your couch in front of the merrily crackling fire, you don’t need to be worrying about ACTUAL bugs! Thankfully, preventing and controlling firewood pests isn’t difficult at all.

Here are 10 ways to help keep firewood pests out of your home!

Store your firewood outside

Leave your firewood outdoors and be sure to take a minute and examine it for bugs and critters before bringing it inside.

Keep firewood away from buildings

Woodpiles should never be stored up against houses or buildings because wood-boring pests can easily tunnel from the wood directly into these structures. By stacking firewood against your home, you are basically inviting wood-boring pests to live there. It is recommended that firewood is kept several feet from any buildings.

Stack firewood off the ground

Bricks, Concrete blocks, or firewood grates are often used to keep wood from directly touching the ground. Moisture problems tend to attract insects, so maintaining airflow beneath the stack is also important.

Don’t keep firewood near trees

Piling wood beside trees is a bad idea. Insects from inside or under the firewood pile, like bark beetles, can crawl over to a live tree and cause severe damage.

Never stack firewood indoors

Firewood should not be stored indoors in any area – in the home, garage, or basement. Insects will easily be able to live within the structure, and an indoor firewood storage area also provides a nice home for insects, pests, and wildlife. You don’t want them in your home!

Use the oldest wood first

To help keep pests at a minimum, be sure to use the oldest wood first, and restack your woodpile occasionally for easier access to the older logs. This will help you with not allowing infestations to build up, and it will help keep anyone from bringing infested firewood inside.

Use local firewood only

When untreated firewood is carried from one place to another, it can bring insects not native to the area along. If the firewood is stacked outdoors, the insects can then emerge out from the wood to start invading and breeding in the new area. If you bought wood that is not from a local source, burn it as soon as possible to kill off any non-native pests.

Remove surface pests

Before carrying wood into your house to use, examine every log carefully: look them over, shake them, knock the logs against each other. Brush off and get rid of the pests on the surface or beginning to appear. If you’re using a carrier sitting on the ground, inspect the bottom for any insects that might be clinging there. Spraying wood is not suggested as this can cause harmful vapors when the wood is burned.

Burn firewood right after bringing indoors

During the cold winter months not many insects are active outdoors; usually, they will hole up in sheltered areas – like between or within firewood stacks. If you bring wood indoors and do not burn it immediately, the insects can crawl out from the wood into the warmth of your home. Then you have a potential problem on your hands.

Most of the pests that cling to or infest firewood are simply more irritating than destructive. If they are carried into the home, they can be simply vacuumed, swept, swatted, or sprayed. (Be sure to follow the directions on the label of any pesticide you use.)

These 10 ways to help with firewood pests will hopefully be useful to you. What is your favorite prevention method to use against pests?

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CHERRY FIREWOOD IS A UNIQUE CHOICE

Posted on December 4, 2018

Cherry firewood is favored by many people. Cherry can provide you and your family with a beautiful, warm fire that also smells wonderful.

The black cherry (also referred to as wild cherry) is a common tree spotted throughout Eastern and Central United States. Black cherry is a somewhat low BTU hardwood that burns with medium heat. Black cherry firewood burns adequately but not as hot or long as hardwoods like oak which are much denser.

The fruits of the tree are eaten by birds and other wildlife. The cherry tree spreads quickly through the forest as the seeds are spread by the wildlife.

The cherry tree is well-known for its stunning bright white aromatic blossoms in the spring season. Japanese cherry trees have gorgeous pink blossoms and drive lots of tourism during the time they bloom. The blossoms are then closely followed by large amounts of red berries growing on the cherry trees. The berries start to grow in the spring and are hard and bitter at first. As they slowly ripen, the berries turn to a darker color, begin to soften and become sweeter. Humans can eat these berries, but most describe the flavor as bitter and won’t desire to eat them again after trying them once.

The bark of a young cherry tree is usually smooth. The bark turns to a very distinctive scaly texture as the tree grows and matures. An adult cherry tree will sometimes grow 80 feet tall. Cherry trees are known for producing high-quality lumber. The wood is used to make flooring, cabinets, and furniture. The wood fiber of cherry trees has a reddish hue on the inside and emit a pleasant scent. It is also a good firewood to use for smoking foods.

The firewood is known for its pleasant aroma when burnt making it a popular choice for a fireplace. When burnt in an open fireplace, Cherry does seem to spark more than other hardwoods which could lead to issues. Using a fireplace screen will prevent sparks from bouncing out.

When compared to beech, oak or maple, Cherry is easy to split and supplies moderate heat. While not as commonly used as beech, maple, and oak, cherry can provide sufficient heat for your home.
Cherry can provide you and your family with a beautiful, warm fire that also smells wonderful.

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EASY WAYS TO PREVENT FIRE IN YOUR HOME

Posted on November 15, 2018

Building a home is the dream of every individual. This dream will push you to work harder everyday to achieve your goals. Every member of our family is important to us and safety is a major concern especially when we live together. There are certain things that we need to pay attention to while living in a home. Due to all the wear and tear our homes are put under over the course of time, it is important to take care of them. However, there are a few points which we need to know about home safety and which should be kept in mind while living in the home.

Investing a lot of money in building our homes indicates we would certainly not destroy our lovely homes deliberately. Often times misfortune strikes and we are left staring in stock at the decimated remains of our beloved home. The loss of our belongings and our loved ones is a tragedy. We are sometimes helpless against the forces of nature, but we can be prepared and must carefully consider every aspect of safety in our homes. People typically overlook the possibility of danger in their own homes it can actually cause a great amount of trouble and can even leave them homeless.
One such aspect is the dangers that can be caused due to a fire.

There are many reasons for which a house can catch a fire. Sometimes the cause of a fire can not be determined right off the bat. A house often catch fire because of the negligence of a person living there or because of natural disaster.

Let’s imagine you are in the kitchen, using a gas stove to cook a delicious turkey for Thanksgiving dinner. As soon as you turn the gas stove valve on, your cell phone rings. You set down the stuffing to pick up the phone and talk to your friend. You have a long chat with her and you make plans for later to meet at your favorite bar. After you put down the phone and go back to the kitchen, (not thinking about the valve, which is switched on still,) and strike a match to light a candle. The lit match catches the gas leakage on fire, and leads to disaster. Consequently, your house burns down. This is not just a scene from a Hollywood movie but in fact it has happened over and over.

There is always a need to keep a check on different things in the house, which can spark a chain reaction or a house fire. This is one of the most important safety concerns. There are many things around you that can cause such a reaction and consequently become the root cause for a house fire. Let’s talk about certain measures that you and your family can take to prevent your home from catching fire. If you check these items and appliances often, perhaps even as often as every day, then ensuring they are properly secured will decrease the chance of a fire. Only after you check them will you be able to sleep soundly once again. These following items need to be checked regularly in order to prevent the house from catching fire:

Kitchen and gas appliances: these are normally the biggest threat that we can have in our homes, and are the most common cause for triggering a house fire. Checking all house appliances that are concerned with the kitchen and those running on the gas is one of the most essential things to do. Gas stoves or gas heaters also. Be sure the connection is turned off after usage.

Electric appliances: some people don’t think that electric appliances cause a fire but in reality electric appliances can indeed trigger a house fire. This is especially true when a short circuit happens. For that reason avoid, or never, put an unnecessary load on a single switch.

Burning candles: those kept for decoration or for other use should be handled carefully, make sure that they are not close to curtains or other material which can catch fire easily. Check your candles to be sure they are all blown out before you go to sleep, especially if you have lots of scented candles during your regular life or during holiday seasons as decorations!

These there are other smaller concerns unique to your home that you will observe after spending a while living there. These possible threats should be taken care of as soon as you can since safety is a priority. Be safe!

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MINIMIZE THE CHANCE OF A FIRE OUTSIDE YOUR HOME

Posted on November 13, 2018

When fire proofing your home the inside is an important area to inspect, but do not forget the outside is also very flammable. You should keep in mind that the outside is also part of your home, so do not neglect to check the backyard, patio, the roof as well as the garden. Minimizing the hazards in these areas around your home is very important.

One example of a fire hazard that exists outdoors is your firewood storage. When keeping wood in your yard it is crucial that you follow the basic fire prevention guidelines in order to reduce the chance of it catching fire, which can lead to a much bigger disaster. The importance of storing your wood in safe manner is something to be taken very seriously, in order to reduce the possibility of fires happening. One of the first things to do is to make a 30 foot perimeter around the area that the wood is being stored, so that if it does unfortunately catch fire it is less likely to spread.

An example of a good safety clearance is a green lawn that is free of any types of fire hazards such as flammable children’s toys, debris, leaves, or lawn decorations. When it comes to plants and fire, there are some plants that happen to be somewhat fire resistant. It is a good idea to put these in the safety zone. These plants may be fire resistant, but it is imperative you dispose of any dry leaves, twigs, dead limbs, and rubble that surround the plants; preventing them from fueling a small fire that can evolve into a larger fire quite easily.

Also take time to examine the roofing materials used on your home. In previous years many roofs were built with many combustible materials causing a great amount of homeowners to lose their homes to terrible fires. These losses were often linked directly to the flammable roof. Now there are new and improved roofing materials that promote fire safety. Whether you are having a home built or choosing a home, it would be smart to pick a place that uses non-combustible roofing materials. There are many non-combustible roofing materials available on the market today, including: Class A Shingles, Terra Cotta, and Metal. If your roof has been built already and it doesn’t need to be replaced yet, then you have the option of treating your roof with fire retardant procedures to reduce flammability.

Finally, something most people might not consider when thinking about fire safety is their barbeque grill. Barbecue grills involve a lot of maintenance. You have to clean your grill regularly, and make sure to keep it free of dust and dirt. It would be less complicated for you to keep up with if you made it your goal to clean the grill after every use. Be sure to pay close attention to dust and cobwebs that may have built up. Also make it a habit to check all water hoses for cracks and make sure they are in good condition; they can also be fire hazards in your yard. If you have a propane tank, check to see if it is damaged at all. It is incredibly unsafe to use damaged propane tanks. They are very combustible and can cause major destruction.

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BENEFITS OF USING A FIREWOOD RACK

Posted on November 8, 2018

Firewood racks are enclosures where cut firewood logs can be held outside the home before they are put to use. A firewood rack helps to stack the firewood logs properly and the stacked firewood gradually dries. The rack must be elevated and have safety from dew and rain. Firewood may be attacked by ants or pests. The firewood rack must be set at a distance from the home so that it prevents insects and snakes going into the building.

Firewood may be stacked in racks that allow air circulation and seasoning of firewood over the course of time. Firewood racks help to keep the firewood, seasoned or unseasoned, off the ground. , if the wood is directly on the ground it absorbs moisture and does not dry properly.. When firewood is stored on the ground it requires a long time to cure. The top of the firewood racks must be covered appropriately with strong vinyl covers to guard the firewood from the weather conditions.
Hundreds of firewood logs can be kept in large racks for several seasons. Firewood racks which can hold 3/4 of a cord or 1/8 of a cord are readily available in the market. Copper firewood racks to store firewood logs with hooks to keep tools for cutting firewood logs into smaller components are also available. Firewood racks made from steel are very often used and they are also in many instances outfitted with wheels to make them mobile.

Firewood racks designed with nice shelters and the best size designed with heavy duty steel with machine welded joints and zinc finish are resistant from rain, sun or moisture light. Different materials are used to make firewood racks ranging from acrylic, metals, or wood. White cedar wood racks look natural and are rust resistant and durable.

Racks with easy to use tools are preferred, such as being easily adaptable in height and length in order to swiftly change the amount of firewood the rack is capable of holding. Portable racks are also available, which have wheels so that the firewood logs can be moved quickly. They serve for many years as a useful yard or garden fixture.

Firewood racks come in many different shapes and sizes. Indoor racks are typically fancier than outdoor racks. Animals, holidays, and color themes are also used to decorate them. Be sure to choose a firewood rack that suits your home perfectly!

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WARM UP WITH THE BEST FIREWOOD

Posted on November 8, 2018

Ash, Oak, Hard Maple, and Hickory are by far the best types of wood to burn. They all generate a large amount of heat, which is one of the most essential things to take into consideration. All of these species burn very well, and they are all reasonably quick and easy to split. They also don’t create much heavy smoke or many sparks. Dobbelare Distributing ages our high-quality Hickory, and Oak firewood for a minimum of one year to ensure proper burning and minimize excess smoke.

Besides the species mentioned earlier, Black Cherry, Soft Maple, Cherry, and Yellow Pine are the next best to use. The Black Cherry, Cherry, and Soft Maple all create a good amount of heat, but they are easy to split and burn adequately. They also produce a low amount of heavy smoke and sparks. Yellow Pine is also quite a decent wood to use. The only significant downside to burning Pine is it tends to smoke quite a bit, so it may not be the best for burning within your home.

Elm, Basswood, White Pine, Sweetgum, and Poplar are all good species. These will work just fine. None of them will produce a remarkable amount of heat to warm your house, but some heat is better than none in some cases. These types also produce more smoke and sparks than the ones previously listed. The Sweetgum and Elm do not usually burn very well, and they are often difficult to split. When you have no other firewood available, these two woods should be only be burned.

As is the case with any heating system, your wood-burning stove should be installed by a professional. It needs to be looked over and maintained annually at the very least, along with your chimney. Safety should consistently be a top priority, so keep your fireplace instruments and fire extinguisher close by in case an emergency occurs.

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WHY IS DRY WOOD BETTER THAN WET WOOD?

Posted on November 6, 2018

We all learn that wet wood is more challenging to burn. But there certainly are actually many more reasons why dry wood is far preferable.

Whenever we talk about wet wood, we usually are not talking about wet to touch, but we are really talking about the total amount of water held in the wood. This is significant, because a dry piece of wood that has rain water on the surface, is much superior to wet wood that appears to be dry on the surface. Dry wood is dry all the way to the core, whereas wet wood may seem to be dry on the surface but a few short mm in, it is still wet.
When wood is dried, it shrinks, this means obtaining wet wood you really get less, given that each cubic meter is filled with extra water instead of dry wood.

Have you ever observed that heating cooking oil requires a lot less time than heating water? Well, that’s since water requires a lot of energy to heat up compared to many other compounds. What’s more, is that in order to turn water into steam demands even more energy. In fact, wetter the wood is, the more the heating potential of the wood is used in warming up the water, and turning it into steam. Most of this steam then goes out the chimney without you ever experiencing the benefit.

Drier wood signifies a higher amount of the energy in the firewood is being pumped into your house as heat. Wetter wood means a higher amount of the energy in the firewood is consumed by water and squandered.

Higher moisture content also prevents the wood from burning hot. Burning hot is crucial for burning clean, therefore wetter wood, means more smoke. Smoke is actually unburnt gases, meaning that you are not just producing smog, but gases you could very well have burnt in your fire are disappearing out the chimney.

Double check your firewood to ensure it is suitably dry. Also, be sure to elevate and cover your outside stack to protect it from the rain and snow. Firewood can absorb moisture from the elements as well!

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Posted on November 2, 2018

Last updated: December 11, 2018

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Terms and Conditions

Posted on November 2, 2018

Last updated: December 11, 2018

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QUICK BURNING TIPS FOR A GREAT FIRE

Posted on November 1, 2018

Here are some quick tips that will have you burning efficiently in no time! By utilizing good techniques, you can get the best value out of your firewood, and help the environment as a plus.

1. Stacking: While loading your fire, stack the wood loosely. Use different sizes and leave large gaps in between pieces to allow plenty of air to move around the wood.

2. Lighting the Fire: Light your fire with paper, or fire lighters and plenty of dry kindling. As soon as it is blazing nicely, add progressively larger pieces until you have developed a good amber bed. Only after that should split logs be added.

3. Overloading: Don’t load up your fire with a lot more wood than you really need. Six pieces of wood will burn nearly as quickly as one piece, and will waste much more heat up the flue. Load your fire with smaller amounts frequently, instead of larger amounts less often. Your wood burner should be no more than half full of wood at any given time. Apart from causing unnecessary smoke and pollution, overfilling simply wastes your money.

4. Pollution: In addition to the fact that pollution is visually unappealing, smoky fires can pose a health risk, and waste your money. Smoke is simply un-burnt fuel which you don’t get heat benefits from. A clean burning fire is an efficient fire, and it gives you the most usable heat for the least cost. It saves you money, and helps reduce air pollution.

5. Using the right wood: Do not ever burn driftwood, painted treated or wood, household refuse, plastic, etc. These materials can give off corrosive, poisonous, and hazardous fumes. They can also lead to a build-up of toxic acid and dioxins, which can seriously damage the environment and your heater both.

Use these tips to your benefit, and enjoy your cozy, warm fire this fall season!

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DO YOU STORE YOUR FIREWOOD CORRECTLY?

Posted on October 28, 2018

Nothing is comfier on a freezing winter night than a crackling fire, bright and warm. Wood heat is less expensive than most gas or electric furnaces, and can be more practical for home heating and cooking in several areas. But what is the ideal way to store your firewood for burning during winter just when you need it most?

Bad Storage Will Lead to Bad Results

No matter how much firewood you put away, it will be useless if it is kept the wrong way. Incorrectly stored wood will stay moist and wet, which will lead to smoking and smoldering instead of burning for ideal heat. This will lower the efficiency of your wood stove, and require more fuel to do the same work. Poorly stored wood can also be a home for rodents, snakes and insects, including termites. These pests can cause severe damage to your home if they are introduced when you bring wood inside to burn. General decay and rot of improperly stored wood can also lead to unpleasant smells, nasty mold, and decomposition making the wood worthless for burning.

In short, if your firewood is badly stored, it will go to waste. Not only will the firewood be unusable, but the time, effort and money you spent to gather, prepare, and store it in the first place will also be wasted and you may even run out of wood entirely before winter is over.

Properly Storing Firewood for Winter

Luckily, it is easy to store firewood correctly so it is well seasoned and ready to use every winter. Whether you are starting a woodpile in early spring or don’t begin until late autumn, the principles of properly storing wood are the similar.

Split wood efficiently

Before storing and stacking wood, it must be split appropriately. Keep in mind the size and proportions of your fireplace, stove or furnace, and split the firewood to the appropriate lengths and widths for easy usage. Triangular wedges are the easiest to stack and have the most surface area, so the wood can dry more quickly. This way it can be used sooner.

Dry the Wood Thoroughly

The drier wood is, the longer it will last when stacked and the better it will burn. Store the wood in an open area with proper ventilation on all sides. If possible, store freshly cut wood in a windy, sunny location where it will dry quickly, but protect it from rain or snow that will keep it wet and unusable. For the best seasoning, wood can need up to 1-2 years to thoroughly dry.

Stack Location Is Important

Don’t stack your winter firewood any old place. Your stack should be close to the house, but at least 5 feet away. Make sure it is easy to access even in poor weather. This will make it easier to bring in more wood when you need it, without chancing slips, falls or other issues as you walk.

Get Elevated

The best woodpiles do not sit directly on the ground. When firewood sits right on the ground, it can absorb moisture and invites insects live there. Instead, use skids, grates, or racks to keep your firewood at least 2-3 inches in the air. This will also improve air circulation to keep it dry, especially when the ground is wet from melting snow and ice.

Cover or Not?

In an ideal situation, firewood should remain uncovered so it can be properly dried. But this is not practical when rain, snow, and ice will get into your wood stack. A good cover over the top of your woodpile will protect it, if it is slanted to shed moisture away from the pile’s base. The cover should also be broad enough to provide a good overhang, but the sides of the pile should remain open so air can thoroughly circulate.

The firewood is elevated and covered, so it is protected from absorbing moisture from above and below.

Stack Stable

As you start to stack your firewood, put larger pieces on the bottom so they will support the rest of the stack. Watch carefully that the stack does not tilt as it gets taller, or it could topple as wood is removed. Avoid stacking wood too high where it will be difficult to reach. Generally it is recommended not to stack above 4 feet high. Don’t try to pack wood tightly – a little bit of space will encourage better air circulation for drier, more well-seasoned wood.

Keep It Clean

Never treat any firewood with chemicals, insecticides, or solvents. Such treatments can lead to dangerous results, like higher combustibility leading to uncontrolled fires. Some chemicals can release toxic fumes when burnt. If the area near the woodpile has to be treated, cover the wood temporarily while the chemicals are applied in order to prevent any from accidentally getting on the firewood. As you prepare your winter firewood, it is also a good time to be sure chimneys, flues and vents are all clean and working properly as well.

With preparation it is easy to store firewood for a cozy, warm winter! How do you store your firewood?

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Some info from

https://talmagefarm.com/blog/53714/firewood-storage-in-winter

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WHAT TO THINK ABOUT BEFORE BRINGING FIREWOOD INSIDE

Posted on October 23, 2018

Storing your firewood in the house can be really practical. And, when done the right way, can definitely look really stylish, in an elegantly rustic sort of way.

However, there are a considerable amount of potential downsides, including things like infestations, mold, and moisture. Before you haul your woodpile into your house, think about these factors that can cause damage if you aren’t prepared and careful!

Make sure your wood is seasoned

Leave the pepper mill alone. In this case “seasoning” indicates leaving your wood outside for a period of time so it dries out deeply. A great rule of thumb is to permit your wood dry for at least six months before you plan to burn it, although some hardwoods will take a year or two to completely dry. Unseasoned wood is harder to light, tricky to keep burning, and a downright magnet for insects, who love the sap and wetness that’s still in the wood’s cells. As well, your stove won’t burn off the tar and creosote in the wood, so your chimney and flue get caked with gunk.

To see whether or not your wood is dry, check it with a moisture meter or look for these indicators (even if you’ve obtained your wood directly from a vendor):.

Fractures that emanate from the inside to the outside of the wood.
Odor and feel– seasoned wood won’t feel damp and cool, and won’t smell “sappy”.
Loose bark.
A hollow sound when you knock two pieces together.
Weight– dry wood weighs considerably less than damp wood.
Burnability– if a piece hisses as you try and light it, it’s still too wet to burn.
Storing unseasoned wood in the house is just asking for trouble, so seek an alternate if your wood is still damp.

Plan your storage area.

If you’ve acquired a substantial quantity of seasoned wood to stockpile and you want to keep it indoors, find as dry a spot as feasible and keep it well off the ground and away from walls. Elevated pallets can be helpful, particularly if you get your wood in bags, as can metal racks. This will allow air to circulate readily, drying the wood out even more and dissuading any bugs from migrating to your walls and floors.

By the fireplace, make sure you decide on the right container– not so large that you can’t reach the top of it, not so deep that you can’t reach the base, and not so small that you’re always travelling back and forth from your big pile to the container. Again, the container should allow for good airflow as much as possible.

Whatever you choose– whether it’s a copper tub, a couple of rolling racks, built-in shelves, or a space between the wall studs, make sure it’s lined with something particularly resilient like a rubber mat so your logs don’t harm any finishes.

Keep clean-up resources available.

Wood is untidy, no matter how mindful you are. Keep a broom and dustpan or a little hand vacuum close by, so there’s no excuse not to sweep up any dirt right away. When it’s circled by a floor strewed with bark bits, Trust us– your indoor firewood pile loses a lot of its beauty.

Stack of dry firewood, and fireplace accessories stand near house wall. Close-up.

Stay on top of bugs.

Insect control folks would advise you never to store firewood in the house if you’re worried about bugs– but there are measures you can take to make sure you prevent a six-legged invasion. Make sure your wood is properly seasoned– insects like carpenter ants and termites like moist, green wood, and they’re more likely to be along for the ride if you bring unseasoned wood inside. When seasoning your wood, try and put it in a sunny place, and cover it with a tarp– this should help kill off any buggy invasions.

Even if you’re worried about bugs, don’t spray your wood with insecticide. Those chemicals will just end up getting burned in your fireplace, and that’s not so good for your respiration. Instead, place ant and other pest traps around the pile. Examine your logs before you bring them inside, beating them together to get rid of any clinging bugs. Slice open a log or two before bringing them in the house– you may not be able to see an ant infestation on the surface of the bark or at the cut ends.

Ultimately, if you do keep firewood inside, try not to store it in a wet basement or garage area. While most of the lumber in a home is too dry for most insects’ tastes, wood with any moisture in it can be an alluring snack.

Do you keep any firewood inside your home?

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WHEN SHOULD YOU BUY YOUR FIREWOOD?

Posted on October 8, 2018

You should buy your firewood as early as possible, but no less than a couple of months before you intend to burn it. This is the same for all types and species. The exception is if you purchase kiln dried firewood, which is ready to burn at once. That benefit just comes with a higher price tag.

Different wood species dry at different paces. Hardwoods tend to dry a little bit slower because they have a higher material density. The initial investment of time is worth it though, as hardwoods generally contain a larger amount of BTUs’ by volume than softwood species do. Due to this, dry hardwood will burn hotter for a longer time, while also making a lesser amount of residual waste in the smoke to resulting in less creosote in your chimney.

To be considered “ready to be burned”, the wood needs to be seasoned. In layman’s terms, it needs to dry out. To do this, the wood should be cut into sections and then split to expose the inside sections to the heat of the sun and circulating air. These elements help to speed up the drying process immensely. There is a terrific article explaining the necessity of seasoning here at Mother Earth News.

Living in New England, almost everyone has different experiences and guidelines. The funny thing is, everyone agrees that firewood should be cut, split, and stacked for an extended period of time before it is burned so that the wood has time to season.

A good benchmark to follow is to ensure that your firewood is given ten or so months from the time it is cut, split and stacked/piled to the time when it will be burned. For all intents and purposes, the longer the wood can be set out to dry the better the result.

When trees are felled or cut down, they are considered “green”. This means that the wood still contains a high moisture content and it is not ready to be burned. In order for this “green” wood to be readied, the moisture needs to be given enough time to dry out so the wood will catch fire easily and burn cleanly.

Many will tell you that “green” wood really shouldn’t be burned until the year after it is cut, thus ensuring that it is given enough time to fully dry out. A full ten months should be sufficient to let the wood burn with moderate efficiency, though.

Semi-seasoned wood is firewood that has been cut, split and seasoned for around five to six months. It is usually delivered to people at the halfway point in the seasoning process. Semi-seasoned wood should still be purchased a few months in advance so there is still plenty of time to stack it and let is breath for an additional four to five months before it is used.

This will give it the time to release any additional “piling moisture” that is retained from the months that it sat in a pile waitng. “Piling moisture” results from having the wood not always sitting on top of the pile where it is drying. If the wood sits at the bottom of the pile for six months, it has caught all of the water running down from the wood piled above it.

Seasoned wood has been cut, split, and set out to dry for ten months or more (if you’re lucky). This wood should set on fire easily and burn efficiently. It will have a silvery-grey color and the ends will have “checks” or little cracks that are easily noticable. There will be virtually no residual moisture in properly seasoned firewood.

That aside, seasoned firewood should still be bought a month in advance to give you the time to stack it and ensure that the wood releases any remaining residual moisture before it is burned.

The answer to the title question is, “it depends on what you are buying for firewood”. To be safe though, you should buy firewood as early as possible. Every firewood seller has a different process and a different concept of what seasoned, semi-seasoned, and green firewood is.

No matter what, the longer that the wood is stacked on your property, the better the wood will burn in the winter.

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Information from https://www.northatlanticfirewood.com/blog/when-should-you-buy-your-firewood

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HICKORY FIREWOOD IS AN OLD-TIME FAVORITE

Posted on October 4, 2018

Hickory firewood is one of the top choices for many people and is often thought of as the number one species for firewood. The tree can live for up to 300 years and grow up to 100 feet tall.

Hickory is a very hard dense wood making it difficult to cut and split.

In fact, the seventh president of the United States, Andrew Jackson, was nicknamed “Old Hickory” because he was said to be as tough as hickory.

Due to the dense fibers, hickory burns hot and stays burning a long time. The wood is often difficult to start and requires about one year to properly season.

The hickory tree is well known for its fruit. The tree produces an oval shaped nut which is desirable to both humans and wildlife.

Squirrels, deer, raccoons and many other animals enjoy the hickory nut as part of their diet. It takes about 40 years before the tree begins to produce the desirable nut.

The pecan, which is also part of the hickory family, produces the most desirable nut. The pecan is grown commercially and generates millions of dollars in revenue. An item that can be found at your local grocery store, the pecan is enjoyed by many people.

The hickory tree is a popular lumber choice due to its strength. Tools, furniture, and equipment are often made from hickory.

It’s a common choice for tool handles because of its strength and flexibility. Hickory wood is also a popular choice for barbecues and smokers because of its distinct flavoring.

Although there are several species of hickory, some of the common species are shagbark, shellbark, pignut, and bitternut.

Hickory is a very dense, heavy, straight grained tree making it an excellent choice for firewood. For best results let the wood season for at least one year. This will ensure the wood is dry allowing it to burn more efficiently.

Since hickory is sometimes hard to light to begin with, starting a dry piece of hickory will be a lot easier than trying to burn it green, plus it’s a lot safer.

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Information from https://www.firewood-for-life.com/hickory-firewood.html

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FIREPLACE SAFETY IS IMPORTANT

Posted on October 2, 2018

Fireplaces are the origin of many fires every year. They are not directly responsible for these tragedies, but it is our responsibility to take precautions that will prevent fires from starting up from fireplaces. There are certain precautions and instructions to be safe from fires due to fireplaces. Compliance with these simple instructions will help prevent you and your family from being hurt.

Who doesn’t love the warmth provided by the fireplace? But neglecting certain things have the potential to cause fires is not a good idea either. A fireplace can quickly become a fire hazard if proper care is not taken. The first step to take is to get rid of all the junk near the fireplace because can it might catch on fire. Proper care should be taken to keep things like paper (mainly newspapers), kindle, and firewood at a distance from burning embers. Protecting the fireplace with a screen is a great way to stop embers from flying off and outside the contained area. When installing a protective screen, make sure that it doesn’t have large holes. Otherwise, the embers can still come through.

One of the most neglected components of a fireplace is the chimney. Homeowners rarely the check the chimney once it is installed. But this is not safe and is a potential danger. It should be routine to clean chimneys on a regular basis, perhaps at least once a year.

If the fire chimneys are not cleaned regularly, a combustible substance called creosote is produced in the chimney which is yet again a major fire hazard. It is also a common sight to see birds making nests in the chimneys during spring and summer. But having a bird’s nest in your chimney is dangerous to your home, so if you notice this occurring be prepared to remove the nest. What these nests do is not only block the chimneys, causing smoke to return to the fireplace and into your home, but also could potentially catch fire themselves. For all of the reasons mentioned above, it is a good idea to clean the chimneys every year.

You should also be conscious of the amount of wood burning. It is not a smart move to burn a lot of wood at once in the fireplace. A small fire can grow into a big fire within a few seconds if the wood is dry which can become beyond your control. That is why it is clever to burn a few logs at a time rather than overloading the fireplace. Keep in mind not to burn anything else in the fireplace aside from regular wood or a fire log for fireplaces. You may be tempted to put newspapers or even trash in the fireplace, but a big fire could start fairly easily. So, think smart and act smart when it comes to the fireplace.

Fire extinguishers are life savers and having them handy would prevent many small fires from turning into a big blaze, but no one has time to look for it when a fire occurs, so always keep it easily accessible. And don’t forget, smoke alarms are a must when you have a fireplace. They can be lifesavers too. But, should also take care of the smoke alarms and be sure to change the batteries regularly. Make sure that the smoke alarm works when it is needed. The ideal scenario would be a smoke alarm which is electrically wired into home wiring and is always on.

One more important thing to remember is to keep children away from the fire. Also, it is not a good practice to leave the fire alone. Make sure that the fire has completely died before leaving. Following these simple precautions ensures a safe and warm experience with fireplaces.

Enjoy cuddling up near your fireplace this fall, but be safe!

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WELCOME

Posted on September 4, 2018

Pardon the dust while we are constructing!!!

Dobbelare is happy to announce its brand new blog and website. We will be discussing important events, news, and tips for our products and services on our new blog.

Remember now is the time to start thinking about the cold winter days that are coming far too soon. We are taking orders for firewood delivery along with mulch and landscaping still being scheduled.

As always we appreciate your business

Scott