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Hot House Blog

Guides, comparisons and professional articles on fireplaces and heating solutions – knowledge to support you before choosing, planning and installing.

From the blog

WOODBOX Technology in Fireplaces: How It Works and What to Check in a ModelWOODBOX Technology in Fireplaces: How It Works and What to Check in a ModelWOODBOX® is a Nestor Martin patent — not a generic name. This guide explains the technology;…Why Does Fireplace Glass Turn Black? Proper Cleaning and Airwash ExplainedWhy Does Fireplace Glass Turn Black? Proper Cleaning and Airwash ExplainedSoot on the glass is a symptom, not fate. Understand Airwash, deal with the cause and…Built-In or Freestanding Fireplace? Design, Installation and What to Plan in AdvanceBuilt-In or Freestanding Fireplace? Design, Installation and What to Plan in AdvanceBuilt-in or freestanding — two installation types, not fuel types. What to plan ahead: cladding, chimney,…The Guide to Burning a Wood Fireplace Properly: Choosing Wood, Measuring Moisture and Efficient CombustionThe Guide to Burning a Wood Fireplace Properly: Choosing Wood, Measuring Moisture and Efficient CombustionHow to choose properly seasoned hardwood, measure moisture below 20%, and get more heat from secondary…External chimney installation on the house wallExternal chimney installation on the house wallThe photos show a stainless-steel external chimney mounted on the house wall, with connections, brackets and…Installation of a black freestanding fireplace in the corner of the spaceInstallation of a black freestanding fireplace in the corner of the spaceThis project shows a black freestanding fireplace in the corner of a living space, with a…Roof chimney installation — professional support and finishRoof chimney installation — professional support and finishThe photos show a chimney installed on the roof, with support to an adjacent wall and…Installation of a modern freestanding fireplace in a living spaceInstallation of a modern freestanding fireplace in a living spaceThis project shows a modern-looking freestanding fireplace in a living space next to a seating area…Built-in fireplace installation in a renovated spaceBuilt-in fireplace installation in a renovated spaceThe photos show a built-in fireplace in a white surround, with a vertical black flue, in…Wood-burning fireplace installation in a corner on a glass hearthWood-burning fireplace installation in a corner on a glass hearthThis project shows a freestanding wood fireplace in the corner of a modern living space, on…Classic red fireplace installation in a modern spaceClassic red fireplace installation in a modern spaceThis project shows a classic-style freestanding fireplace in a striking red, in a modern space with…installation of freestanding fireplace classic with cladding stoneinstallation of freestanding fireplace classic with cladding stoneThis project shows a classic-style freestanding fireplace installed in a corner on a stone base, with…Heating Fuels: Why Quality, Origin and Standards Are Not a Technical DetailHeating Fuels: Why Quality, Origin and Standards Are Not a Technical DetailDamp wood, poor storage or an unclear origin are not "savings" — they mean frustration, smoke,…Wood-Burning Fireplace or Pellet Stove? The Differences to Know Before You ChooseWood-Burning Fireplace or Pellet Stove? The Differences to Know Before You ChooseThere is no universal winner — the choice between a wood-burning fireplace and a pellet stove…Gas Fireplace or Wood-Burning FireplaceGas Fireplace or Wood-Burning FireplaceA professional comparison of gas and wood-burning fireplaces, focusing on infrastructure, user experience, maintenance and safety.…How to Choose a Fireplace for Your HomeHow to Choose a Fireplace for Your HomeChoosing a fireplace for your home is a decision that affects the atmosphere, design and heating…

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