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An open recess for holding a fire at the base of a chimney; a hearth. Fireplace Cleaning Method A working stone fireplace may be a rarity nowadays but believe it or not they are meant to be used and not just to decorate a hole in the wall. If you are using yours you will be aware of the smoke and soot damage that can occur. WE do perform the cleaning services but I thought I would help you out with some information for a DIY fix. Smoke and soot may be removed from stone fireplaces by the T-S-P method. Smoke and moreover soot is a carbon deposit so it will be extremely greasy and needs a high Alkaline for removal. Be sure to wear rubber gloves to protect hands from strong alkalis I would always recommend a dust mask as well. A solvent mask is the best for the job but a 3m dust mask will suffice. Make sure you mask the area properly and cover any flooring either carpet, wood or stone. Dissolve 8 teaspoons (1/2 cup) Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) in 1 gallon of hot water. With stiff scrub brush, scrub stone surface. Rinse with plenty of warm water. Repeat if soot or greasy stain not removed. More Trisodium Phosphate may be added but this really shouldn't be necessary, up to 1 cup per gallon. This is a very strong solution; avoid getting on skin, carpet, or fabrics as mentioned. Allow a few hours for this task and plenty of dexterity. You need to take your time with this. I find it quite therapeutic.

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