November 17, 2009
- Why Are Soapstone Wood Stoves So Popular?
If you have any aesthetic sensibility at all, then the allure of soapstone wood stoves might be hard to resist. Burnished metal and a crackling fire definitely appeal to the senses, and combined with luxurious radiant heat, it's no wonder that many home owners are looking to incorporate stoves in their living areas. However, there's more to the story than romance and atmosphere.
November 14, 2009
- Shopping For A Woodstove: Features To Look For
If you're like millions, and are desperately searching for an alternative heating source to oil for this coming fall/winter, then you've probably considered investing in a wood stove. In my opinion, they're great! They're economical, energy-conscious, aesthetically charming, and most effective. But, if you are in the market for one for either, the first time or the first time in a long time; you'll need to know all the contemporary features that woodstoves now offer. Below, is a quick reference guide on the most important features to look for in a new wood burning stove for your home.
· Material
There are three basic materials that your new woodstove can be made from: welded steel, soapstone, and cast iron. Starting with the most basic, welded steel is the least aesthetic and consequently the cheapest of the three, so if you are looking for purely functional: this is your best bet. Cast iron is probably the most popular and prevalent among homeowners, because it is functional, beautiful, and moderately priced. Soapstone is what is regarded as the Cadillac model of woodstove. It has a very different, yet pleasing look to it; and offers the same top-notch efficiency and functionality as well.
· Catalytic or Non-Catalytic Combustion
Basically, catalytic combustion wood stoves use a technology where the exhaust gasses are developed through a filter of sorts, outside of the main firebox; to produce a long, steady heat output. Non-catalytic, on the other hand, produces its combustion or heat in the firebox and uses something called a baffle to divert gas; and pre-heated air to produce a more powerful, shorter-term (yet efficient) heat output. You'll find in shopping that the higher-end models typically use catalytic technology, but this is not necessarily the best choice; as manufacturers are swiftly switching to production of non-catalytic-most probably due to efficiency and emissions standards.
· Heat Output
If this is your first time shopping for woodstoves, you may have no idea what kind of heat power your house will need. Typically, an average-sized medium home needs 5,000-20,000 BTUs per hour to keep itself warm continuously; but of course this depends whether you have a catalytic or non-catalytic wood stove, and the more specific size of your home. It's always best to ask what the manufacturer or store recommends for your given square footage home.
· Heating Capacity
When it comes to how much home a given wood stove will heat, knowing your home's square footage can be helpful but should not be paramount when deciding what size woodstove you will buy. For example, perhaps you have a large home with a lot of square footage, but it's broken down into lots of small spaces. In this case, buying a large capacity woodstove will not necessarily serve you well. This being said, here is a general rule of thumb when it comes to choosing the size of your woodstove: small stoves will heat a large room or small house, medium wood stoves will heat a medium-sized home, and large woodstoves will best heat a larger home or one that isn't well insulated (an older home typically).
November 12, 2009
- Wood Burning Stoves: Timeless Classics
Traditionally, wood-burning freestanding stoves were used in ski cabins and lodges, but today thanks to new design concepts they have become a welcome addition to any home.
Wood-burning stoves can be installed in any room of your house, but most often they are placed in living or dining rooms, as well as in patios. While traditional fireplaces generally work as a piece of décor, free-standing wood-burning stoves are generally used for more practical purposes, namely, for heating and even cooking. Thanks to new designs, your wood-burning stove will look attractive and still remain perfectly functional. Because it isn't attached to the wall, a wood-burning stove will radiate more heat throughout a small or large room.
Most often, wood-burning stoves are usually built of stainless steel, soapstone or ceramics study stone and brick but can remain sleek and contemporary thanks to new materials such as fireproof glass and stainless steel details. The shape of these stoves is most commonly tall and cylindrical, with built-in wood storage under the burning chamber.
When choosing a new wood-burning stove, keep in mind that the size of your wood-burning stove is determined by the size of the space that needs to be heated. The fire of the stove should be substantial enough to please the eye as well as heat the room, but too much fire can literally turn your place into an oven.
When picking a place to put your new stove, avoid traffic areas such as doors. A stove surrounded by windows may be a good solution. The fire chamber door should face the room. Don't forget to take stovepipe requirements into the account, making sure they are in compliance with your local building codes. Since wood-burning stoves are not strictly fireplaces, they don't require any clearance between the fire chamber and surrounding combustible materials, such as wood or fabric.
Conventional wood-burning stoves vary in heat efficiency because their construction can be very different, too. The efficiency of a wood-burning stove depends on how much of its combustion energy turns to heat, which in its turn depends on how well it burns wood. Even the best wood-burning stoves don't burn all wood completely. The smoke is actually composed of unburned wood particles. Another factor that impacts the wood-burning stove's efficiency is how much heat escapes through the chimney.
To improve the efficiency of your wood-burning stove, consider a chimney sweep in the first place. This should be done by a professional fireplace expert. If you noticed that a lot of smoke is produced during the wood burning, you may need to alter the size of your stove opening, or reconfigure the existing fire chamber. If you notice that a lot of hot air escapes through the chimney, you may consider replacing the fire basket - the metal rack that supports the burning logs. New designs of fire baskets can greatly improve air circulation and heat efficiency.
Wood burning stoves today offer a great variety of looks and designs to suit any home style, from a retro Victorian house to a steel loft condo. Painted black, brushed steel or even red, with stovepipe to match, wood burning stoves with generous glass doors allow you admire the dancing flames during the cold winter season.
November 11, 2009
- Soapstone Counter Top: New Style For An Old Favorite
What Is Soapstone?
Soapstone counter tops are silky smooth and feel somewhat soapy when touched. Soapstone is commonly used in chemistry labs since it resists acid and does not stain or absorb liquids. Soapstone is even used in fireplaces and wood stoves for it's ability to retain and evenly distribute heat.
In recent years, a soapstone counter top has regained popularity as homeowners look for stylish and unique options for their kitchen counter tops.
Soapstone, also called steatite or soap rock, is a metamorphic rock that is composed mostly of talc. It is produced when the tectonic plates are subducted, and has been used for carving in many cultures for thousands of years. Along with talc, soapstone also contains different amounts of chlorite, amphiboles, and even magnesium.
Characteristics
Soapstone is becoming a more popular alternative for countertops and sinks because it is nearly indestructible and requires very little maintenance. Strong, heat and stain resistant like granite, it is also very simple to install and can fit almost any household budget.
Soapstone counter tops will not burn or stain, and acids cannot etch soapstone like marble or other stone countertops. Contractors can easily cut soapstone on job sites, which makes it a much easier material to deal with than marble or granite.
Colors and Design
Soapstone has a limited color range, but colors differ depending on where in the world it was quarried. An untreated soapstone counter top normally has a solid light green or gray color to it, but applying a coat of mineral oil can darken it to a shiny black.
Some varieties of soapstone, most commonly found in Brazil and other Southern American countries, contain white veins similar to those found in marble. This variety of soapstone tends to be softer and potentially more easily damaged. Soapstone works best for those who are looking for a dark theme in their kitchen, and matches exceptionally great with stainless steel appliances.
Soapstone Sinks
Soapstone sinks are also very popular due to the large basins, integrated drain boards and many other features that can make a smart, stylish and functional addition to your project. Soapstone is easy to work with and virtually any custom size or shaped sink can be created; however, many soapstone dealers have basic sink shapes and sizes for purchased.
Care and Cleaning
Soapstone counter tops are highly resistant to heat and chemicals, so regular household cleaners can be used without worry. Always use a cutting board since nicks and scratches can occur when using knives or other sharp objects directly on the surface. The good news is that blemishes can easily be buffed out with some sand paper and mineral oil.
Sealing is unnecessary, but mineral oil is commonly applied in order to quickly darken the soapstone. This color change will happen naturally over time, but many people prefer the shiny black surface you get from mineral oil.
Cost and Installation
Cost of soapstone varies from company to company, especially since different companies sell different types of soapstone from all over the world. A higher quality slab of soapstone can run for a few thousand dollars, but is well worth the cost since a soapstone counter top will last a lifetime. Soapstone Sinks also vary in price, mostly depending on the size and shape of the sink. Custom jobs require estimates to be made by the supplying company, but typically range from about $300 to $3000.
Soapstone has been used for centuries in household construction. Soapstone has many desirable characteristics and a proven durability. The darker colors are certainly sleek and modern, but also work well with rustic or country designs. If your installing a new countertop, definitely consider soapstone. You'll enjoy it's beauty and years of happy use!
More on Soapstone Counter Top: New Style For An Old Favorite.
November 9, 2009
- How To Buy Your Wood Stove
Given all the variety in today's wood burning stove market, when you come to the point of actually buying a stove for your house, the prospect can be intimidating. The good news is that it doesn't need to be. Here are a few tips to make the buying process as simple as possible.
First, choose a wood stove that matches your home size.
Several factors are involved here. In a nutshell, you need to decide what you want your wood stove to accomplish. Are you heating a single room, a floor, or your entire house? Once you after that question, you'll be able to decide what size category you should be looking at.
Fortunately, on the technology side of things, any new-model stove you buy will be certified by the Environmental Protection Agency. This means, practically, that the stoves you consider will all produce clean, radiant, efficient heat–so there's no need to get too concerned about so-called spec numbers like Btu output and square footage ratings. At best, these numbers are very general estimates, because they are not standardized, and vary widely depending on factors like climate, fuel, and house type. That's why stove size is the best way to guide your decision making.
Second, pick out your favorite designs and materials.
If buying a wood stove is part art, part science (I think it is), here's where the art kicks in. After you know what size you need, you can cut loose and let your sense of style be your guide. Case in point: welded steel is cheaper than cast iron and just as durable–but if you're looking for class, it's likely that the clean, sculpted lines of iron stoves will catch your eye.
Go ahead and decide, "Am I looking for heating output only, or heating and style?" In terms of sturdiness and efficiency, there's virtually no difference between iron and welded steel stoves. Designer materials like pewter and soapstone–offered in an array of colors–give you some opportunities to make your stove a conversation piece, but no drop-off in heating ability. So relax and enjoy this part. It's your call.
Third, list any "super powers" your stove should possess.
This is kind of obvious, but what could be worse than buying your stove, only to make a painful discovery a few weeks later? "Hey, where's that built-in spit for roasting small pigs and turkeys?" More seriously, you should ask yourself, "Do I need a wood stove with a cooking surface? How about an ash pan for easy maintenance? Do I have to have a removable fire screen?"
By identifying any non-negotiable features, you'll make your search more focused and make sure you don't regret your decision down the road. With all the manufacturers in the market today, someone is sure to be making the stove you're looking for. So take your time as you compile your feature list. These options pertain to convenience and aesthetics–not vital heating ability–so don't sweat it.
Finally, purchase your wood burning stove from a trustworthy dealer.
In the past, brick and mortar stores were the default place to buy wood stoves–and there continue to be reasons to buy locally, such as the opportunity to talk with an experienced dealer and inspect floor models first hand. Of course, buying via the internet is also a viable route today, and this may be even more true if you have a clear idea of what you're looking for. If that's the case, then shopping around online may lead to discounts. A good online store will have generous return policies and reps to address any questions you have. Whether you buy local or online, by doing your research, you're setting the stage for a happy purchase.
November 7, 2009
- Benefits Of Woodstoves
With oil prices soaring daily, and no price-gouging rest in sight; many homeowners are looking for alternatives to home heating to stave off the blustery winter this year. Oil, electric, propane…Who can afford it? Enter the time-honored ingenuity of woodstoves. Wood stoves have been efficiently heating homes since-seemingly-the beginning of time, with one of the most base natural elements there is, wood. Though many of the wood stoves you'll find out there still retain the same traditional look, smell, and basic scientific principles; much has been done to improve and modernize the efficiency, capacity, and design to accommodate the needs of today. Below, are the most basic benefits of choosing to invest in a wood stove this fall/winter, to help you make your own home energy decision.
· Availability
Number one reason for choosing a soapstone or cast iron wood burning stove, is just that: that it burns wood, instead of oil or propane. Oil is at record prices due to over-consumption and price-gouging; whereas wood is an all-natural resource that is in much less demand, and certainly doesn't require so many politics and malfeasance. Less dependency on foreign and private national interests, offers a more solid ground for the nation as a whole.
· Economical
Less demand allows for much lower prices. Due to the fact that wood is not in a third of the demand as oil or propane, it is still very reasonable price-wise. Moreover, it burns much slower and is then able to give off more heat for a longer period of time; whereas oil or propane burns through at an alarming rate.
· Ease of Use
A wood stove can be used anywhere where there is a proper chimney ventilation and there is enough space. This way, you can use it in the kitchen or any other room that has a chimney or draft alternative. Oil/propane heaters are typically set up in one place-usually in the basement and-unless you are looking to invest a lot in outside labor-cannot be moved easily.
· Unit cost
The woodstove or wood burning unit itself, is priced at anywhere from $500 to over $2000. New furnaces or boilers typically start at $1500 and move upwards from that, and usually need replacement once every 10-15 years.
· Clean burn
Whereas a furnace or boiler burns fossil fuels at an indiscriminate rate, a new woodstove will burn wood much cleaner, and with much less harmful residue.
· Localized heating
The typical furnace is located in your home's basement, and will heat indiscriminately throughout the whole house, or one on each floor (typically). Wood stoves, however, can be regulated by how much wood you burn, and your ability to monitor through the front glass panel the status of your home's heating source.
· Safety
Due to the fact that you can easily monitor and regulate your heating source at all times with a wood stove, you are therefore more aware of any issues that might arise; whereas you won't know there is something wrong with your furnace until it shuts off or makes a dramatic noise, etc that you can hear from upstairs.