The Best and Worst Types of Wood to Burn in Your Fireplace — And Why It Matters

August 18, 2025 | *Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

There’s nothing like the warmth and crackle of a real wood-burning fire. Whether it’s for ambiance or home heating, your fireplace can be a cozy focal point — but only if you’re burning the right kind of wood.Using the wrong firewood can result in excess smoke, poor heat output, creosote buildup, and even dangerous chimney fires. Below, we break down the best and worst types of wood to burn — and why choosing the right firewood is so important for your safety and comfort.Best Types of Firewood for a FireplaceThe best wood for burning is seasoned, dry hardwood. These woods burn longer, cleaner, and produce more heat with less smoke.1. OakOak is one of the most popular firewood choices. It burns slowly and produces steady, high heat. However, it must be properly seasoned — usually 12 to 24 months — for best performance.2. MapleMaple burns cleanly and gives off good … Continued

Chimney Swifts: What They Are, Why They Matter, and Why Your Chimney Needs Professional Care

August 15, 2025 | Chimney Inspections

As we are in the warmer months, chimney swifts are in their annual migration and nesting season across North America. These small birds often find their way into residential chimneys, using them as nesting sites during spring and summer. While they may seem harmless, chimney swifts can bring serious health and fire hazards if chimneys are not properly maintained.Here’s what you need to know about chimney swifts, their seasonal activity, and why proper chimney cleaning and inspection by a certified company like Chimney Champions is essential.What Are Chimney Swifts?Chimney swifts (Chaetura pelagica) are small, fast-moving migratory birds that are often seen darting through the sky at dusk. They were once known to nest in hollow trees and caves, but today, chimneys serve as their primary nesting structures in urban and suburban areas.These birds are unique in that they are unable to perch like most other birds. Instead, they cling to … Continued

Why should my chimney be waterproof?

September 7, 2021 | *Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

If you live right here in Jacksonville, FL, then you know we’re blessed with plenty of sunshine and warm weather. However, we’re not immune to the occasional thunderstorm and downpour. If your chimney isn’t waterproof, then you could experience significant water damage in both your stack and your roof. But why is a waterproof chimney necessary if the downpours come and go? Chimney Champions is here to answer this, as well as other commonly asked questions we get from homeowners throughout the area.

3 Facts About Efflorescence

June 16, 2021 | Chimney Basics

Are you starting to see a white powder form on the exterior of your chimney? This residue is called efflorescence, and it’s not uncommon for homeowners to think that this is just a sign of an aging chimney. However, it’s a sign that your chimney needs an inspection, and the professionals at Chimney Champions want you to know that efflorescence should not be ignored. In fact, it could be a sign of a larger issue with your chimney, and definitely should be inspected. Here are several facts you need to know about this white, powdery substance appearing on your stack.

3 Signs of a Chimney Fire

November 10, 2020 | Chimney Inspections

On average, there are roughly 25,000 chimney fires every year, causing more than $125 million in damage. Still, many homeowners don’t realize that they need to have chimney inspections performed regularly. It’s very likely that you’ve had a chimney fire and haven’t even noticed. That’s where the team at Chimney Champions comes in. We can inspect the entire structure of your chimney and tell you whether or not you’ve experienced a fire in your chimney.

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