As we bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new, it’s a time of reflection and resolution. New Year’s resolutions often focus on personal growth, health, and home improvement. In the spirit of home care, one key aspect that often goes overlooked is fireplace maintenance. A well-maintained fireplace not only adds warmth and charm to your home but also ensures safety and efficiency.

The Heart of the Home

The fireplace, often the heart of a home, brings more than just physical warmth. It’s a place where memories are made, stories are shared, and a sense of comfort is found. In the cold months of the new year, a well-maintained fireplace becomes a focal point for family gatherings and quiet evenings. This makes it all the more essential to ensure it’s in top condition.

Resolution for Safety

Fireplace maintenance is not just about keeping the charm alive; it’s a crucial safety measure. A neglected fireplace can lead to hazards like chimney fires and carbon monoxide leaks. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends an annual inspection and cleaning of fireplaces and chimneys to prevent such dangers. Making a New Year’s resolution to schedule regular fireplace maintenance is a commitment to the safety and well-being of your family.

 Enhancing Efficiency

A clean and well-maintained fireplace is more efficient. Creosote, a byproduct of wood burning, can build up in your chimney and reduce the fireplace’s efficiency. Regular cleaning ensures that your fireplace burns more effectively, keeping your home warmer while using less fuel. This not only saves money on heating costs but also is better for the environment.

 DIY vs Professional Care

While some aspects of fireplace maintenance, like cleaning the hearth and checking for obvious signs of wear and tear, can be done by homeowners, professional inspection and cleaning are vital. Professionals have the tools and expertise to thoroughly inspect and clean your chimney, ensuring it’s free of blockages, creosote buildup, and structural damage.

 Embracing the New Year with a Warm Hearth

As we embrace the new year, consider adding fireplace maintenance to your list of resolutions. It’s a step that promises not only a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your home but also peace of mind knowing that your fireplace is safe and efficient. Schedule a professional inspection early in the year and make it an annual tradition. This simple resolution can make your home a safer, warmer, and more welcoming space in the coming year.

Ah, September in Cincinnati—leaves turning shades of amber and gold, the air acquiring that brisk, autumnal edge. As we bid farewell to summer and look forward to pumpkin spice lattes, corn mazes, and warm apple cider, it’s also time to start thinking about prepping our homes for the colder months ahead.

If you have a fireplace, you’re in luck! There’s nothing like the glow of a roaring fire to make even the chilliest Cincinnati evenings feel cozy and inviting. But before you strike up the first log, let’s make sure your fireplace is as efficient and beautiful as it can be.

Enhance Your Fireplace Efficiency with New Installations

Vonderhaar is Cincinnati’s one-stop-shop for fireplace efficiency upgrades. Whether it’s a wood, pellet, or gas fireplace insert you’re considering, our family-owned business has a variety of high-efficiency options to help you heat your home more effectively and economically this fall. These inserts not only increase your fireplace’s heating capability but also add a modern aesthetic to your home.

Beautify Your Space with Fireplace Makeovers

Speaking of aesthetics, have you considered giving your fireplace a makeover? At Vonderhaar, we specialize in installing new tile or cultured stone and new mantel installations. A fireplace makeover can transform the look of your entire room, making it not just a source of heat, but a striking focal point that complements your home’s decor.

Why Choose Vonderhaar?

Why trust us for your fireplace and roofing needs? We’re a family-owned, Cincinnati-based business that prides itself on high-quality service. We’re fully licensed, insured, and committed to your complete satisfaction. Plus, all our work comes with a 10-year limited warranty, so you can enjoy peace of mind along with your newly efficient and gorgeous fireplace.

The Power of Reviews: Let Your Voice Be Heard!

Your feedback is valuable to us and the entire Cincinnati community. If you’ve had a positive experience with our services, please take a moment to leave a review on Google or Yelp. Not only does this help our family business grow, but it also helps your Cincinnati neighbors make informed decisions about their fireplace and roofing needs.

So, Cincinnati, as you dust off those boots and pull out your favorite sweaters, remember to give your fireplace some TLC. Trust us—when the snow starts falling, you’ll be wrapped up in warmth and style, grateful that you planned ahead!

The heart of a home often lies in the warmth of a hearth, and the shield that protects that warmth is the sturdy roof overhead. At Vonderhaar’s, we are dedicated to providing both of these vital home features with excellence in service. Our commitment to Cincinnati communities goes beyond just business—it’s personal. As a family-owned and operated business, we live, work, and play in the same neighborhoods we serve, which means every roofing and fireplace project we undertake is more than just a job; it’s a commitment to our friends and neighbors.

Our services extend from installing a cozy, energy-efficient fireplace to ensuring that your roof is sound, weatherproof, and beautiful. We’ve poured our passion and expertise into every project, striving for nothing less than your complete satisfaction.

However, in today’s digital world, a job well-done doesn’t end with the last nail or the final sweep of the hearth. Online reviews have become a crucial aspect of sustaining and growing local, family-owned businesses like ours.

Why Are Online Reviews Important?

Online reviews, whether on Google, Yelp, or other platforms, play a vital role in the success of businesses in the digital age. A whopping 90% of consumers read online reviews before visiting a business, and 84% trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. They help prospective customers make informed decisions about the products and services they need.

For small businesses like Vonderhaar’s, these reviews provide credibility and visibility in an increasingly crowded digital landscape. Each review helps improve our online presence, making it easier for those in need of quality roofing or fireplace services in Cincinnati to find us.

How Your Reviews Help Us

When you take a moment to leave a review about your experience with Vonderhaar’s, you do more than share your thoughts. You help us continue to improve our services and ensure that we’re meeting your needs in the best way possible.

Your feedback provides valuable insights that guide our business decisions. Praises affirm what we’re doing right, and constructive criticism helps us understand where we can improve. The result is better service for you and a stronger local business.

How Your Reviews Help the Community

Your reviews also contribute to the health and vitality of our local Cincinnati community. When you champion local businesses through your online reviews, you foster a thriving community economy. Local businesses are more likely to recycle a much larger share of their revenue back into the local economy than their corporate counterparts, enhancing job growth and community development.

Beyond economic benefits, reviews of our fireplace and roofing services guide your neighbors toward quality and reliable service. Your words can help another family find the right services for their home, reducing the stress of choice and enhancing their peace of mind.

So, if you’ve experienced Vonderhaar’s commitment to quality in roofing or fireplace services, we kindly ask you to consider leaving a review. Your words could be the beacon that guides someone toward a cozy fire on a chilly Cincinnati night or the security of a sturdy, weather-resistant roof. By sharing your experiences, you’re helping our family serve yours, making our shared community a little brighter, warmer, and safer.

In the Midwest, where the weather constantly keeps us on our toes, it’s essential to be prepared for anything, including hailstorms. One of the most vulnerable parts of your home during a hailstorm is your roof. Hailstones, particularly those of substantial size, can cause significant damage to your roofing materials. Here’s how to identify hail damage to your roof, why repairs are vital, and how a reputable Cincinnati roofing company, like Vonderhaar’s, can help mend your roof and restore your peace of mind.

Identifying Hail Damage

Hail damage on your roof isn’t always easy to spot. You might notice obvious signs like missing shingles, dents, or cracks in the roofing material. However, some symptoms might be less apparent, such as granule loss from asphalt shingles or leaks in your attic or home’s interior. If you suspect that your roof has suffered hail damage, it’s crucial to have a professional conduct a thorough inspection.

Why Roof Repairs Are Essential

Ignoring hail damage to your roof isn’t a wise choice. Even minor damage can evolve into more severe problems if left untreated. Granule loss from asphalt shingles can expose the underlying material to the elements, leading to faster wear and tear.

More severe damage, like missing or cracked shingles, can compromise the integrity of your roof, leading to leaks or even structural damage. This not only impacts your home’s exterior but can also lead to water damage inside your home, a risk no homeowner wants to take.

The Importance of Timely Repairs

When it comes to hail damage, time is of the essence. Prolonging repairs can result in further damage to your roof and the interior of your home. The intrusion of water through a damaged roof can cause widespread damage, from the attic to your home’s interior walls. In extreme cases, the structural stability of your roof and home could be at risk, leading to costly repairs.

Moreover, a damaged roof can impact your home’s energy efficiency. Holes or cracks in your roofing material can allow drafts to enter your home, disrupting your heating and cooling systems’ effectiveness and potentially increasing energy costs.

Professional Roof Repair: The Vonderhaar Way

After a hailstorm, you need a Cincinnati roofing company that you can trust. At Vonderhaar, we’re not just experts in roof repair; we’re also your Midwest neighbors who understand the unique weather conditions in our region and their potential impact on your roof.

Our team will assess the hail damage to your roof and recommend the most effective repair plan. Whether it’s replacing damaged shingles, restoring dented metal roofing, or even a complete roof replacement if necessary, we’ve got you covered.

What’s more, our service comes with a ten-year warranty, providing you with the assurance that your roof is protected long after the hailstones have disappeared. As a family-owned, locally-operated business, we prioritize the needs of our Cincinnati community.

Hailstorms may be part of Midwest living, but they don’t have to be a disaster for your roof. With a reliable Cincinnati roofing service like Vonderhaar’s, you can rest easy, knowing your roof – and home – are safe, secure, and ready to weather whatever nature throws at them.

As the seasons turn and Cincinnati’s vibrant fall hues give way to a snowy winter wonderland, there’s something inherently cozy about curling up by a roaring fireplace. That crackling sound, the comforting heat, the dancing flames – it’s pure magic. But like any magic, it requires careful maintenance to keep the charm alive, which is where annual fireplace sweeping enters the picture.

Annual fireplace sweeping isn’t just a chore to check off your to-do list, it’s a vital step in keeping your fireplace safe and efficient. Here’s why annual fireplace cleaning is an essential aspect of owning a cozy, crackling hearth in your home.

1. Safety First: The primary reason to have your fireplace swept annually is to protect your home and loved ones from the dangers of chimney fires. Over time, a flammable substance known as creosote can build up in your chimney. If allowed to accumulate, this tar-like substance can ignite, causing a dangerous and potentially devastating chimney fire. Regularly scheduled sweeping will keep creosote in check and drastically reduce this risk.
2. Breath of Fresh Air: A clean chimney is a clear passage for smoke and gases to exit your home. Without regular cleaning, your chimney can become clogged with debris or creosote, which can lead to smoke backing up into your home. This not only creates an unpleasant atmosphere but can also expose your family to harmful smoke and gases, including carbon monoxide.
3. A Matter of Efficiency: A clean fireplace is a more efficient fireplace. When your chimney is free from blockages and creosote build-up, it allows for better ventilation, ensuring your fire burns more efficiently. This means you’ll enjoy more warmth while using less fuel. An annual sweep can help keep your energy bills in check while ensuring your fireplace is ready to warm your home on those cold Cincinnati nights.
4. Unwanted Guests: Your chimney can provide an inviting home for birds, squirrels, or raccoons looking for a safe place to nest. These animals and their nests can block your chimney, causing smoke to back up into your home and possibly introducing fleas, ticks, or mites. An annual sweep includes an inspection that can spot these issues.
5. Prevent Costly Repairs: Regular sweeping can help identify minor problems that might turn into significant issues if left unchecked. Cracks in the chimney liner, masonry damage, or problems with caps and dampers can be spotted during an annual sweep and repaired before they lead to more expensive fixes.

A roaring fireplace is one of Cincinnati’s greatest pleasures during the colder months, providing warmth, ambiance, and a gathering place for friends and family. However, remember that with the joy a fireplace brings, there comes a responsibility to keep it clean and safe. Don’t let your hearth become a hazard. Schedule an annual fireplace sweep with a professional like Vonderhaar’s, and ensure your fireplace continues to be a source of comfort and enjoyment for years to come. In the end, a clean chimney isn’t just a happier one; it’s the key to a safe, warm, and cozy home.

Roof flashing is a critical component of your roof, designed to direct water away from vulnerable areas such as the joints or seams. It’s often made from thin pieces of impervious material such as galvanized steel, copper, or aluminum. While it’s designed to be durable, flashing doesn’t last forever and will need replacement over time. Here are the top reasons to replace your roof flashing:

1. Aging and Wear

Over time, flashing can age, deteriorate, or corrode due to exposure to the elements. The lifespan of your flashing depends on the material it’s made from, but even the highest-quality flashing will eventually wear out. Aging flashing can lead to leaks, causing water damage to your home’s interior. Replacing your flashing can ensure your roof remains water-tight.

2. Visible Damage

Visible signs of damage, such as cracks, dents, or rust, are clear indicators that your flashing needs to be replaced. Damaged flashing is less effective at redirecting water, which can lead to leaks and potential water damage to your home. In some cases, flashing can get damaged due to severe weather or falling debris.

3. Roof Leaks

If you’re experiencing leaks in your home, particularly around the chimney, vents, or roof joints, the flashing could be the culprit. Damaged or deteriorated flashing can allow water to seep into your home, leading to potential water damage and mold growth. If you notice a leak, it’s a good idea to have a professional Cincinnati roofer like Vonderhaar inspect your roof and replace the flashing if necessary.

4. Improper Installation

Flashing needs to be installed correctly to function effectively. If your flashing was poorly installed, it might not effectively redirect water away from your roof’s vulnerable areas. In this case, it’s best to have a professional roofer replace the flashing to ensure it’s installed correctly.

5. Roof Replacement

If you’re having a new roof installed, it’s an excellent time to replace your flashing. Even if your old flashing is still in relatively good condition, it’s generally best to install new flashing during a roof replacement to ensure it aligns and works effectively with the new roofing material.

In conclusion, maintaining the integrity of your roof flashing is a critical aspect of overall roof health. Replacing your flashing when it’s aged, visibly damaged, causing leaks, improperly installed, or during a roof replacement can help prevent water damage and extend the lifespan of your roof. Always ensure to work with a trusted professional like Vonderhaar, your Cincinnati roofing expert, to ensure your flashing replacement is done correctly.

When it comes to home maintenance, regular roof inspections may not top your priority list. However, it’s worth noting that these inspections can play a crucial role in preventing costly repairs down the line and extending the lifespan of your roof. Here’s how regular roof inspections by professional Cincinnati roofers, like Vonderhaar, can save you money in the long run.

Early Detection of Damage

The primary purpose of a roof inspection is to identify potential problems before they escalate into more significant issues. Over time, even the most durable roofs can experience wear and tear due to exposure to Cincinnati’s diverse weather conditions. Regular inspections help detect early signs of damage, such as missing or broken shingles, leaks, mold growth, or poor ventilation. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more costly repairs or even a full roof replacement down the line.

Extension of Roof Lifespan

Investing in regular roof inspections can significantly extend your roof’s lifespan. Professional Cincinnati roofers can assess the state of your roof, offer maintenance tips, and perform minor repairs, all of which contribute to the longevity of your roof. By extending the life of your roof, you delay the need for a costly roof replacement, leading to substantial savings in the long run.

Prevention of Interior Damage

A damaged roof can lead to water intrusion, causing substantial damage to your home’s interior, including ceilings, walls, and valuable possessions. Mold and mildew growth, a common result of water leakage, can also pose significant health risks to your household. Regular roof inspections can help prevent these issues, saving you from expensive interior repairs and medical bills.

Energy Efficiency Savings

A well-maintained roof plays a crucial role in your home’s energy efficiency. Damaged or improperly installed roofs can lead to poor insulation, causing your heating and cooling systems to work overtime. This inefficiency can significantly impact your energy bills. Regular roof inspections ensure your roof’s insulation and ventilation systems are functioning optimally, leading to lower energy consumption and, consequently, lower energy bills.

Home Insurance Claims

In the event of damage due to storms or other natural disasters, a well-documented history of regular roof inspections can streamline the insurance claim process. Insurance companies often require proof of regular maintenance, and having this documentation can increase the chances of your claim being accepted.

In conclusion, regular roof inspections are a proactive approach to home maintenance, offering a range of financial benefits. By enabling early detection of potential issues, extending your roof’s lifespan, preventing interior damage, improving energy efficiency, and facilitating home insurance claims, these inspections can save you considerable money over time.

While it may seem like an unnecessary expense, consider regular roof inspections as an investment in your home’s longevity and your peace of mind. As professional Cincinnati roofers, Vonderhaar is committed to providing thorough, quality roof inspections to ensure the health and longevity of your roof.

As the first line of defense against the elements, the roof of your home plays a pivotal role in protecting your property and enhancing its value. Yet, the importance of a new roof is often overlooked until problems like leaks or visible damage occur. In this article, we’ll shed light on why investing in a new roof is vital to your home’s functionality, value, and aesthetics.

Protection Against Leaks and Weather Damage

The primary function of a roof is to safeguard your home from external factors, such as rain, wind, snow, and heat. A new roof, installed by skilled Cincinnati roofers like Vonderhaar, ensures maximum protection against these elements. Old, worn-out roofs can develop leaks that lead to water damage, mold growth, and structural issues. By investing in a new roof, you’re significantly reducing the risk of leaks and potential costly repairs down the line.

Increasing Your Home’s Value

A new roof can significantly boost your home’s resale value. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, a new roof increases home resale value by a national average of nearly $12,000. Moreover, homeowners who invest in a new roof can expect to recover an average of 62.9% of the installation cost through increased home value. When potential buyers see a new roof, they perceive it as a significant reduction in upkeep costs, making your home a more attractive purchase.

Cosmetically Enhancing Your Home

Beyond practicality and value, a new roof can dramatically improve the curb appeal of your home. Today’s market offers a vast array of roofing materials, colors, and styles, allowing homeowners to choose a roof that best complements their home’s architectural style. A new roof can freshen up your home’s appearance, making it stand out in your neighborhood. Remember, first impressions count, and a new, high-quality roof can significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home.

Peace of Mind

Above all, a new roof provides peace of mind. Knowing that your home is protected by a sturdy, high-quality roof installed by professional Cincinnati roofers, you can rest assured that your home is safe from the elements.

In conclusion, while a new roof requires an upfront investment, the long-term benefits it provides in terms of protection, increased value, aesthetic appeal, and peace of mind make it a worthwhile endeavor. If you’re considering a new roof, remember to entrust your home to reputable Cincinnati roofers like Vonderhaar, who can ensure the job is done right, providing you with a durable and attractive new roof.

Please enjoy this information from Regency, a product and brand we are proud to support and deal. 

#1 Give your fireplace a purpose

Once installed, your new fireplace has an important job to do and that’s what you need to keep in mind while shopping. There are many reasons to start a fireplace renovation:

•    To update the look of a room
•    To heat a room(s)
•    To upgrade an inefficient fireplace (search government rebates & incentives)
•    To reduce monthly heating bills by up to 20-40% (learn more)
•    All of the above!

Pictured Above: B36XTE traditional gas fireplace

#2 Understand what type of fireplace you need

Are you shopping for an insert, a new fireplace or a stove?

Fireplace Inserts

Many people who think they need a new fireplace actually need a fireplace insert. Inserts install quickly into existing masonry fireplace openings and they offer many benefits. In addition to heating, fireplace inserts create ambience, stop cold drafts, improve indoor air quality, instantly update the look of a room, and they can even reduce your home heating bill. Available in multiple styles and sizes, all you have to do is decide whether you want a gas insert, wood insert or pellet insert.

Before: An old, open masonry fireplace After: The same fireplace with an LRI6E  gas insert installed

New Fireplaces

Shop for a new fireplace if you’re building a new home or installing a fireplace where there isn’t one already. Direct vent technology makes it easy to add a fireplace in any room of your home. New fireplaces are available in modern, contemporary, traditional and classic styles.

Shop for a new fireplace if you’re building a new home or adding a fireplace to a room where there isn’t one. Pictured Above: Regency Horizon HZ42STE contemporary gas fireplace

Stoves

Powerful heat and stand-up style define the stove. Today, the best wood stoves, gas stoves and pellet stoves can be customized to fit your personal style. If maximum efficiency and minimum maintenance cost is important to you,  shop for a stove that has thick, durable hinges and an adjustable door latch.

Pictured Above: Alterra CS1200 wood stove

#3 Pick a fireplace fuel

Natural Gas

Natural gas is the cleanest burning fossil fuel. Choose natural gas if you want a clean, low maintenance fireplace with a thermostat that can be adjusted instantly via remote control. #InsiderTip: Natural gas fireplaces that have ceramic burners, ceramic glass viewing windows and variable speed blowers disperse the most heat.

If you don’t have a natural gas line, but you want the convenience of a natural gas fireplace, consider shopping for a gas fireplace that has a propane conversion kit. Many Regency gas fireplaces, stoves and inserts  can be converted to propane.

Choose natural gas if you want a clean, low maintenance fireplace that can be adjusted via remote control. Pictured Above: City SeriesSan Francisco Bay designer gas fireplace 

Wood

When sustainably harvested, wood is a renewable, carbon neutral fuel source. Choose wood if you love the crackling sound and dynamic ambience of a real wood fire, and you have a place to store wood logs. New technology has revolutionized wood burning efficiency and many governments now offer rebates and incentives to encourage home owners to upgrade to environmentally efficient wood fireplaces, wood stoves and wood inserts. There has never been a better time to upgrade your fireplace!

All Regency wood burning fireplaces, stoves and inserts meet or exceed CSA and EPA environmental certification standards. Pictured Above: CI2600 wood insert 

Pellets

Pellets are a great choice if you want the convenience of a gas fireplace, but you prefer a renewable, carbon neutral fuel. Pellets are small, uniform pieces of compressed organic material that produce heat and flame when burned. When shopping, notice that some pellet inserts and pellet stoves only burn wood pellets, while others like the GC60 and GCI60, can burn pellets made of wood, bark, sawdust, corn, wheat or barley. #InsiderTip: choosing higher quality pellets will reduce the amount of maintenance your pellet stove or pellet insert will require, and it will reduce any dust when adding more pellets into the hopper. If you want to know more about pellet fireplace inserts this article is for you.

Choose pellet if you want the convenience of a gas fireplace, but you prefer a renewable, carbon neutral fuel source. Pictured Above: GF55 pellet stove

Electricity

Electric fireplaces produce ambiance, but are fairly inefficient heaters. If you are looking for heat from your fireplace, other fuel types are a better option. It all comes back to tip #1, what is the purpose of the fireplace?

#4 Take a few measurements

A good fireplace dealer will ask you what size room your new fireplace will live in, and if you’re shopping for a fireplace insert, he/she will also ask you about the size of your existing masonry fireplace opening.  Installing the wrong large fireplace into a small room can make you uncomfortably hot, while installing the wrong small fireplace into a large room can make you shiver. Also consider the style of your new fireplace relative to the style and size of the room. Going with a unit that is too big or too small on a wall can make your fireplace look out of place. A long wall with longer accent features may look better with a linear fireplace than a portrait fireplace.

Not sure how to measure your fireplace? This brochure has the worksheet you need (last page).
Pictured Above: LRI3E Compact Gas Insert

#5 Visualize your installed fireplace

Do you want to wallpaper to the edge of your fireplace or place a TV or art directly above your fireplace without a mantle? If so, you need a designer gas fireplace like City Series. Before you start shopping, visualize what you want your finished fireplace to look like. You don’t need to have all the answers, but sharing your final vision with your local fireplace dealer will help him/her find you a fireplace that will meet your goals.

#6 Where to buy a fireplace:

Authorized Fireplace Dealers ✔ YES

The best place to buy a fireplace is from your authorized fireplace dealer. Visiting a fireplace dealer is the only way you can compare the physical difference between reputable fireplace brands, like flame picture and build quality. Visiting a fireplace dealer is also the only place you’ll be able to speak to a fireplace expert. A fireplace is a heating appliance and its efficiency and safety are contingent upon the correct installation. A reputable fireplace dealer will install your fireplace or work with a licensed contractor who will install your fireplace to ensure it operates correctly. Purchasing a fireplace online and installing yourself is a considerable risk and generally not recommended.

Online ✘ NO

When you buy a fireplace online you risk being disappointed by the quality, performance and safety of your fireplace, and you miss out on the valuable expertise your local fireplace dealer can provide. Further, quality crafted fireplaces are very heavy, if you need to ship yours back it won’t be cheap!

Big Box Stores ✘ NO

Buying a fireplace at the same time you buy your groceries might sound convenient, but it could cost you time and money in the long run. Unless your local big box store sells quality crafted fireplaces and staffs a dedicated, knowledgeable fireplace expert, steer clear.

Used Product Websites ✘ NO

Safety is the most important factor when you purchase a fireplace. Buying a fireplace from a second-hand website like Craigslist or Kijiji is not worth the risk; it’s impossible to know the full history of the product. Further, used fireplaces aren’t warrantied, so if something goes wrong with your fireplace you’ll be on the hook for the entire cost to repair or replace.