Fireplaces and wood stoves are designed to burn dried, cut firewood, but many homeowners throw in various other items, some of which may release toxic fumes or damage the fireplace’s components. Pressure-treated wood, for instance, may release toxic amounts of arsenic, and driftwood contains enough salt to damage catalytic converters in wood stoves. Pallets, however, may be safe to burn as long as they were not treated with insecticides. To find out more, check out our new article on fireplace fuel.

Hydroponic systems are an efficient way for homeowners to grow their own plants when they don’t have space outside. But they are also a serious electrical and fire hazard when implemented poorly. Find out how homeowners can protect themselves in our new article on hydroponics.

House-raising is the practice of jacking a home into the air, usually so a basement can be built beneath. The homeowner might also want to raise the house above the water table or merely twist the house 180 degrees so it doesn’t face a new highway. House raising is an intensive process that can cost tens of thousands of dollars, and it has to be performed by trained professionals. To find out more about the subject, take a look at our new article on house-raising.

Wood-burning stoves can be energy-efficient ways to supplement your heating system during the winter, but they are also prone to releasing large amounts of particle-laden smoke that can cause ailments ranging from asthma to cancer. The EPA has responded to this problem by creating minimum requirements for wood-burning stoves, but homeowners must maintain them and use them appropriately if they hope to improve air quality. To read more about the issue, check out our new article on wood-burning stoves.

Greenhouses are fantastic tools for gardeners. They serve to extend the growing season, and make it possible to grow plants that would otherwise fail to thrive in many climates. They can also attract mold and insects, however. Find out how homeowners can implement their greenhouse structures in the most effective ways in our new article on greenhouses.

Vapor barriers come in different types for different applications, depending on the use and climate.  Read about the pros and cons of these different types in the new article, Vapor Barriers.