Lee Wallender is a home improvement writer of nearly 20 years and specializes in home remodeling, repair and maintenance. Kristin is a lead editor at Forbes Home and has nearly a decade of ...

Brick fireplaces may be cozy and charming, but they also blacken easily. Smoke and ash penetrate the brick during every fire and leave behind dark stains. Cleaning brick can be very challenging ...

There’s nothing cozier than a glowing fireplace on a chilly evening. But over time, that beautiful view can become clouded with soot, haze, and stubborn residue that can dull the flame’s warm glow.