The Rise of Chimneys in Britain

Before the Middle Ages, most homes in the UK relied on open hearths with smoke escaping through holes in the roof. This began to change in the 12th and 13th centuries, when chimneys were introduced into larger stone buildings and manor houses. By the Tudor period, chimneys had become more common, particularly in towns and cities.

As fireplaces spread, so did a serious problem: soot buildup. Chimneys needed regular cleaning to prevent sooty blockages and dangerous chimney fires – giving rise to the trade of chimney sweeping.

The Chimney Sweeps of Georgian and Victorian Britain

Chimney sweeping became widespread in the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly in growing cities like London. Chimneys were narrow, twisting, and often impossible for adults to climb. As a result, children – known as climbing boys, were sadly employed to clean flues by hand.

These children faced extreme hardship, health problems, and dangerous working conditions. Public concern eventually led to reform, including Chimney Sweepers Act 1834 and further legislation in 1840 and 1875 which finally outlawed the use of child chimney sweeps.

This period remains a sobering chapter in the history of the trade and played a key role in shaping modern labour laws in the UK.

The Move to Safer, Modern Techniques

By the late 19th century, technology began to replace dangerous manual methods. Mechanical brushes, rods, and improved flue design made chimney sweeping safer and more effective. At the same time, public awareness grew around the importance of fire prevention and ventilation. As coal fires became standard in British homes, regular chimney maintenance became a normal part of household life.

Chimney Sweeping Today

Today, chimney sweeping in the UK is a skilled and regulated profession. Modern chimney sweeps use specialist brushes and high-powered vacuum systems, alongside smoke testing and essential safety checks. These include CCTV flue inspections, which are particularly important before glass fronted gas fire and stove installations where the chimney must be lined to ensure correct operation.

Regular sweeping helps to

• Prevent chimney fires
• Improve appliance efficiency
• Reduce harmful emissions
• Ensure compliance with building regulations and insurance requirements

At Stonewoods, we proudly recommend Paul and Matthew Clarke, a chimney sweep we have worked alongside for over 30 years. Fully qualified and members of the National Association of Chimney Sweeps (NACS), they are both known for their thorough, knowledgeable, and friendly approach.

To book an inspection, call Paul on 07946 506 909. If you mention Stonewoods, they will provide us with detailed information about your chimney, helping to move you one step closer to an accurate quotation for your new fireplace.

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Save up to £290 on selected electric fires but hurry, this offer ends Tuesday 31st March.

Choose from premium electric fires that bring warmth, style, and convenience to any room. With cutting-edge flame technology, these fires offer a realistic, cosy glow without the mess of traditional fireplaces. Designed in Britain, they combine sleek aesthetics with easy installation and safe, eco-friendly heating, perfect for modern living.

Evonic Volante 1500 & 1800

The Evonic Volante range showcases the latest in advanced LED technology, delivering a captivating and contemporary flame effect that transforms any living space. Designed to create a stunning visual centrepiece, these electric fires produce a mesmerising flame display while also operating virtually silently for complete comfort and relaxation.

Available in sizes from 800mm to 1800mm, the Volante range includes two- or three-sided conversion panels to suit a variety of installation styles. Each model features HD front glass for enhanced flame clarity and comes with a choice of British woodland or split ceramic logs, with the option to add a Signature black rear screen for even greater depth and realism.

Along with a 1500W heat output, the Volante range offers both ambience and warmth. Easily control your fire using the included remote, the E-Smart App, or via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for seamless smart home integration.

Evonic C600 Fires

The Evonic C600 Black Edition inset electric stove is the perfect all-rounder, combining style, flexibility, and impressive performance. Designed for versatile installation, the C600 can be easily fitted into traditional fireplace hearths or wall cavities, instantly creating a striking focal point in any room.

Enjoy a personalised flame experience with 11 different flame styles and adjustable speed settings. Allowing you to set the perfect atmosphere. This cassette-style electric fire is available with a 3- or 4-sided black frame and comes with British woodland real logs. Or you can have the option to upgrade to the Black Edition Cotswold fixed fuel bed.

Just like the Volante range, the C600 delivers the ambience of a beautifully realistic flame alongside a 1500W heat option. Providing both visual impact and comforting warmth.

Don’t Miss Out

This Spring Sale ends on Tuesday 31st March. Secure your Evonic fire today and enjoy premium design, outstanding performance and exceptional savings.

The post Evonic Fires Spring Sale appeared first on Stonewoods.

Capital Mulberry Electric Stove

The Mulberry combines classic stove styling with cutting-edge TrueFlame 3DX technology, delivering ultra-realistic 4K flame visuals with optional rotisserie-style effects. With quiet, adjustable heating up to 2kW and an authentic real-log fuel bed, it offers traditional charm with modern convenience.

Capital Elegance Electric Stove

The Elegance stove brings a sleek, contemporary look with black glass detailing, a pedestal base, and immersive flame visuals viewed through front and side glass panels. Slimline yet powerful, it features discreet heating and the same cutting-edge flame realism as the Mulberry.

Both stoves are simple plug-in models with no chimney required, include intuitive remote controls, and offer optional flue accessories for an even more authentic finish.

Onyx Mirage 40i Electric Fire

Completing the line up, the Onyx Mirage 40i is a slim, space-saving inset electric fire designed to fit a standard 16” fireplace opening. Its patented Mirage Virtual Flame System uses real flame footage to create a breathtakingly lifelike display, with multiple flame pre sets, lighting options, and full app or remote control.

We’d love to show you these exceptional new electric fires in person. Visit our showroom and experience the realism for yourself.

The post What’s New in Our Showroom This February? appeared first on Stonewoods.

The electric fire was invented in 1912. The first electric fires mimicked the appearance of a traditional wood-burning fire using simple methods like coloured light bulbs and mechanical devices. Metal rods or rotating drums painted with flame patterns created basic flickering effects. These effects were rudimentary, with an obvious mechanical look. The focus was more on providing heat than on realistic flame visuals.

By the 1960s, advancements in lighting and materials allowed for more sophisticated effects. Some designs incorporated silk ribbons or reflective elements that fluttered when air was blown over them, imitating the movement of flames. These provided a more dynamic and convincing flame effect, although they were still clearly artificial.

In the 90’s the introduction of halogen lights, fibre optics, and better reflectors allowed for more realistic flame effects. Due to their increasing popularity, companies began to focus on improving the aesthetics of electric.

The use of LEDs in 2010’s revolutionised electric fire flame effects. LED lights, often combined with digital projection and moving screens, enabled a much more realistic and customisable flame effect. Some models even introduced water vapour illuminated by LEDs to create three-dimensional flames. LED electric fires produce highly convincing flames with depth, colour gradients, and movement that closely mimic real fire. They also offer various settings to adjust flame and fuel bed colour, brightness, and speed.

The latest innovations include virtual fireplaces with screens displaying high-definition videos of real flames. Some smart fireplaces integrate with home automation systems, allowing users to control flame effects via apps or voice commands.

These highly realistic electric fires provide a captivating ambience in any interior and are quite often incorporated in media walls as they do not require clearances from combustibles. Visit our Electric fires and Emberlux media wall showroom to discover many options how to elevate your interior.

The post The Evolution Of Electric Fireplaces appeared first on Stonewoods.

January Sale Is Now On

Grab amazing deals on fireplaces while they last:

20% off EcoSmart Bio-Ethanol Fireplaces

10% off Electric Fires

15% off selected Planika Bio-Ethanol Fires with free Mainland UK delivery

Up to 25% off Antique & Refurbished Fireplace

We also have some stock clearance items available with up to 50% off, so it’s a great opportunity to grab an extra bargain while updating your home.

Shop The Sale Today!

Start The Year In Style

Start the year in style and make the most of our January offers. Explore the full range online or, even better, visit us in our showroom to get expert advice, and choose the fireplace that’s just right for your home. Warm up, take your time browsing, and enjoy our free on-site car parking while you explore our incredible displays.

Visit Our Showroom.

The post Welcome Back & Happy New Year appeared first on Stonewoods.

Christmas Opening Hours

We’d like to let you know that we will be closing for Christmas on Friday 19th December at 12.30pm. We will reopen as usual on Friday 2nd January. Emails and enquiries received during this time will be responded to once we return in the New Year.

Looking Ahead To January

Please keep an eye on your inbox, as we’ll be sharing details of our January Sale. We’ll be offering some great deals on a range of fireplaces, making it the perfect time to upgrade your home or plan ahead for the year. There will be some excellent offers you won’t want to miss.

Season’s Greetings

Finally, from all the team at Stonewoods we’d like to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

We hope you enjoy a wonderful festive season, staying cosy by your fireplace. We look forward to welcoming you back again in 2026.

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Using Dry Wipe Stove Glass Sponge

Included in our Stonewoods Stove Starter Kit, we recommend to our customers to use the Schott Robax dry wipe sponge. This is an effective and super convenient stove window glass cleaner. Its ergonomic design makes it easy to get into corners and it will remove soot and smoke stains without scratching. You will be ready to gaze into the dancing flames in your stove again in no time.

Using Stove Glass Cleaner

A cleaner specifically made for stove glass, such as a cream or spray cleaner, is designed to break down the soot and grime from the glass. Apply the cleaner to the glass following the product instructions, use a soft cloth or paper towel to wipe away the cleaner and any dirt and finally buff the glass with a dry, clean cloth to remove any residue. Stove glass cleaner can contain substances which will irritate your skin so please be sure to read the instructions carefully and avoid getting on skin and in your eyes.

If you prefer a DIY approach, here are some common household items that work well:

Baking Soda Paste

Mix baking soda with a little water to form a thick paste and apply the paste generously to the glass window of the stove. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes to loosen the grime. Use a damp cloth or sponge to scrub the glass in a circular motion and then wipe the glass clean with a wet cloth and dry it with a clean towel.

Vinegar and Water

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture onto the glass and let it sit for a few minutes. Use a soft cloth or sponge to scrub away soot and stains, wipe the glass clean with a wet cloth, then dry it with a clean towel. For stubborn stains combine with baking powder in a paste as above or fine wood ashes as below.

Using Wood Ashes

If you have a wood stove, you can use ashes from your fire to clean the glass. Dampen a small amount of fine wood ash with water to create a paste. Use a soft cloth or sponge to rub the paste onto the glass. Buff in a circular motion, then wipe off the paste with a clean, damp cloth. Dry the glass with a clean towel.

You can clean the glass while it’s warm, but not hot. If the stove has been used recently, it’s often easier to clean off the soot when it’s slightly warm rather than cold. Just make sure it’s not too hot to avoid burns or damage to the glass. Clean your stove glass regularly to prevent buildup and staining. By using these methods, you can keep your stove glass looking clear and clean without much hassle!

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What Are Seasoned Logs?

Seasoned logs are logs that have been naturally air-dried over time to reduce their moisture content. Freshly cut logs are stacked and left to dry outdoors, which takes typically 12 to 24 months depending on the wood type, climate, and storage conditions. Good air circulation and protection from rain are essential to proper seasoning. The aim of seasoning logs is to bring down the moisture content to under 20%. The pros of seasoned logs is that they are natural and cost effective, although the moisture content is not always consistent, therefore you should always use a moisture meter prior to lighting up a fire. Logs with an excessive amount of moisture will burn less efficiently and produce more smoke and creosote (which can clog your flue and potentially lead to a chimney fire).

What Are Kiln-Dried Logs?

Kiln-dried logs are logs that have been artificially dried in a kiln – a specially controlled chamber that removes moisture from the wood quickly and uniformly. The process usually takes a few days to a couple of weeks to achieve the moisture content dropping to below 20%, often as low as 10–15%. Although kiln dried logs may be more expensive than seasoned, due to the low and consistent moisture content, they burn slightly hotter than seasoned logs and can produce less smoke, tar, and creosote – making them cleaner for the environment and better for your stove’s efficiency and longevity.

In the UK, look for firewood that carries the “Ready to Burn” certification. This means the logs have been tested and approved to contain less than 20% moisture – whether they’re kiln-dried or well-seasoned. Using certified wood helps to meet legal requirements (especially in Smoke Control Areas), keeps your stove efficient and clean and will reduce environmental impact.

The post Kiln-Dried vs. Seasoned Logs: What’s the Best Wood for Your Stove? appeared first on Stonewoods.

Nearly all of Greater London is designated as a Smoke Control Area under the Clean Air Act. This means you can’t emit visible smoke from a chimney, and you can only burn authorised fuels, or use DEFRA-approved appliances. Breaching these rules can lead to fines of up to £1,000 – not something to take lightly. If you’re unsure if your property is in the Smoke Control Area please contact your council.

So, what is legal (and eco-friendly) to burn in a Smoke Control Area?

In an open fire such as a cast iron insert or a freestanding grate, the only option to burn solid fuel is smokeless coals. Burning logs is only permitted in a DEFRA approved stove. An open solid fuel fire will generate a generous amount of heat however most of it will escape up the chimney. You will also need additional ventilation in the room to ensure sufficient air supply, such as a fixed open wall vent or a floor vent, which can make the room a little draughty.

If you prefer convenience over tending to a fire and cleaning up the ashes, why not consider a coal or a log effect gas fire which will deliver all the ambience at a minimum fuss. Decorative open fronted gas fires below 7kW do not require any additional ventilation and they can be made to measure to suit most cast iron inserts and freestanding grates.

Whether you will be burning smokeless coals or gas, your chimney needs to be in a good working condition so please ensure you get it regularly swept and tested. If your chimney fails a smoke test, you can have it relined to suit either a coal fire or a gas fire or you can opt for a bioethanol burner which does not require any chimney. With its dancing flames and sufficient heat output, bioethanol fires offer a clean and eco-friendly alternative to traditional wood-burning fireplaces.

For more guidance on fireplace regulations please contact us and visit our showroom to see many live fires on display.

The post What Can You Burn in an Open Fire in London? appeared first on Stonewoods.

What Is an Ecodesign Stove?

Ecodesign refers to the European Union’s Ecodesign Directive, which sets minimum efficiency and emissions standards for energy-related products, including stoves. Although this is an EU initiative, the UK has adopted and maintained these standards post-Brexit.

In simple terms, an Ecodesign stove is designed to burn more cleanly and efficiently, reducing the environmental impact compared to older or non-compliant models. Ecodesign compliancy became mandatory in the UK for all new stoves sold from January 1, 2022. Regulates emissions of particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide (CO), organic gaseous compounds (OGCs), and nitrogen oxides (NOx). Ecodesign stoves feature high-efficiency combustion systems that reduce emissions to an absolute minimum.

What Is a DEFRA Exempt Stove?

In many urban areas across England such as London and its suburbs, Smoke Control Areas are in place to improve air quality and reduce the pollution from smoke. If you live in one of these areas, you must follow specific regulations on what fuels you can burn. You can find out if you live in a Smoke Control Area by contacting your local council.

In Smoke Controlled Areas, burning wood is only permitted in woodburning and multifuel stoves that have been approved by DEFRA (the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs). These appliances are known as DEFRA-exempt, or sometimes you’ll come across DEFRA-approved. The key features of DEFRA approved stoves are efficiency and clean burning, these stoves are designed to meet strict criteria to burn wood more completely, producing less smoke.

Can a Stove Be Both?

Yes – and many of our stoves are both Ecodesign compliant and DEFRA Exempt. Choosing the right stove isn’t just about heat — it’s about health, environment, and legality. By choosing a wood burner with both certifications, you are making a smart, futureproof move – ensuring your appliance not only meets current regulations but supports cleaner air for years to come, all without compromising on performance or style. Visit our showroom or contact us to discuss the best option for your home.

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