Firewise Product FAQs
Do you have questions about Firewise? You’re in the right place! This FAQ page covers everything you need to know about Firewise products—from usage and application to safety and effectiveness. Whether you’re looking for tips on protecting your home or want to learn more about how Firewise works, we’ve got you covered. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out to our team!
Select a product to view its specific FAQs.
No, this polish must be heat-cured to work effectively. If your fireplace is purely decorative and will not be used for heating, we recommend speaking with your local hardware store. Let them know your fireplace is non-functional, and they can suggest a suitable paint or polish for your needs.
Yes, as long as the entire surface can be evenly heated. Since the formula contains water, any uncured polish left on the surface may lead to rust over time.
This polish requires immediate and intense heat curing, as it dries quickly. A hairdryer is not powerful enough to achieve the necessary curing, especially on cast iron surfaces that typically rely on high, consistent heat.
While we cannot recommend this product for projects where proper heat curing isn’t possible, if you can replicate the required curing conditions, it may still work. However, be aware that improper curing could lead to surface rust, so ensuring the correct process is essential.
Yes.
We recommend choosing either paint or polish and sticking with one method long-term. Applying polish over painted surfaces may not yield the best results. If your stove is already painted, it’s best to continue using high-temperature paint for maintenance.
Let the fire burn until the Black Beauty Cast Iron Stove Polish has stopped smoking. This indicates that the polish has fully cured.
We recommend checking with the manufacturer to determine whether your heater is painted or polished. Many Saxon wood heaters are painted, so New Coat High Temp Paint would be the better option.
Black Beauty Cast Iron Polish is specifically formulated for cast iron, benefiting from heat curing and high thermal diffusivity. Stainless steel has a different thermal profile with much lower thermal diffusivity, making it unsuitable for this product.
Check the manufacturer’s manual for the best way to maintain your fireplace.
You should start a fire fairly quickly after applying the polish. The product will air dry, so it’s important to begin the curing process before it dries completely to ensure proper adhesion and effectiveness.
You can use Black Beauty Cast Iron Stove Polish as often as needed! Stoves that are used more frequently may require more regular maintenance, but the polish can be applied whenever the stove needs a touch-up to maintain its finish.
It depends on the material and any previous coatings. If your trivets have a shiny surface, they may have been painted or coated with heatproof enamel, which would need to be removed through proper surface preparation. If the trivets are made of cast iron (check your user manual for confirmation), then the polish can be applied.
Please note that the product must be heat-cured for best results. This is an unconventional use, and we haven’t conducted specific tests for this application. We recommend testing the product on a small area first before proceeding.
No, even though the polish is non-toxic, it can wear off with use. For this reason, we do not recommend using it on direct food contact surfaces like woks and frying pans.
While our Black Beauty Cast Iron Stove Polish has some similarities, the Leadlight Cream Polish formula is specifically designed for lead lights. You can find it through Axess Glass.
For best results, we recommend applying Black Patch Stove Putty to a cool-to-warm stove rather than a hot one.
Once the putty has dried for 24+ hours, there should be no significant odour when heated. You may notice a slight smell of steam as any remaining moisture evaporates, particularly if the putty is applied thickly. This steam is just heated water vapour and does not indicate the release of any volatile or organic compounds.
Black Patch Stove Putty is primarily designed for indoor use but can be used in outdoor stoves and similar applications, provided it is protected from moisture. Ensure the putty is fully air-dried for at least 24 hours before exposure to wet weather. For storage, keep the lid tightly closed and store away from heat to prevent unused product from drying out. It is not recommended for use outdoors unless kept in a roofed area to shield it from rain and dew.
1400°C
Black Patch Stove Putty requires 24 hours to air dry. Once this period has passed, you can use your heater.
Yes, Black Patch Stove Putty can be used to repair cracked fireplace glass. However, please note that it is not transparent and will leave a black colour on the glass.
The primary difference between Hotspot and Black Patch Stove Putty is their colour. Hotspot Ready Mortar is sandy-coloured, while Black Patch Stove Putty is black.
Do I need to wet the bricks first?
Yes, for best results, pre-wet porous surfaces like bricks before applying the putty.
How to Use:
- Clean the area to be fixed or filled by removing any loose material and dust.
- Place the tub on a flat surface when opening the inner seal to avoid spillage.
- Mix the stove putty thoroughly until an even consistency is reached.
- Pre-wet porous surfaces and apply with a putty knife or suitable tool.
- Allow a minimum of 24 hours to dry. Note that cold, humid, and wet weather can prolong the drying time.
- The product will be rock-hard when set and can be painted after 7 days.
Yes, you can add a very small amount of water—just a couple of drops—to adjust the consistency as needed.
To clean up spills, wash the area down with water before the putty dries or hardens, as the product is water-based. Once dry, it will become rock hard and be difficult to remove.
Once the liquid from Black Patch Stove Putty is exposed to air or heat, it sets and cannot be physically removed. To lighten the effect, you can try using Jif cream, which contains a cutting agent in its formula (test on an inconspicuous area first), or a magic eraser.
Yes, the wood burner/pipes need to be cool before application. After applying the putty, wait 24 hours before starting the fire again.
No, Black Patch Stove Putty does not have elasticity when dry. It dries rock-hard.
Firewise Black Patch Stove Putty is not recommended for outdoor use unless the area is fully protected from wet weather, such as under a roofed patio. While the putty dries rock-hard within 24 hours (longer in cold or humid conditions) and can be painted after seven days, exposure to rain and moisture may stop it from hardening/setting.
Yes, Black Patch Stove Putty is suitable for sealing cracks in a domestic oven. However, for optimal adhesion, we recommend etching the surface first. Since domestic ovens typically have smooth surfaces, roughening the area with sandpaper will help the putty adhere better
Once the liquid from Black Patch Stove Putty is exposed to air or heat, it sets and cannot be physically removed. To lighten the effect, you can try using Jif cream, which contains a cutting agent in its formula (test on an inconspicuous area first), or a magic eraser.
Crystal Clear Fireplace Glass Cleaner is highly effective for cleaning porcelain enamel and can also be used on white goods like fridges and dishwashers to remove marks.
No, just like with car polish, it’s important to wait until the glass is cool before applying the cleaner. Using it on hot glass can cause the cleaner to burn onto the surface, making it harder to remove. Let the glass cool down first for the best results.
Yes, it is safe to use. However, since this product is designed specifically to remove soot, tar, and creosote from fireplaces, we cannot guarantee it will work effectively on conventional ovens. For cleaning food splatters, oils, fats, and grease, we highly recommend using our Oven & Rangehood Cleaner.
Yes, our Crystal Clear Fireplace Glass Cleaner is suitable for use on propane gas fireplaces and is ammonia-free.
Yes! Apply the Crystal Clear Fireplace Glass Cleaner to the cold glass, ensuring a thick coat. Cover it with plastic wrap (like Gladwrap) to prevent the cleaner from drying out, and leave it on for as long as possible. Afterwards, use a non-scratch scourer to gently scrub and remove the remaining marks.
No, this polish must be heat-cured to work effectively. If your fireplace is purely decorative and will not be used for heating, we recommend speaking with your local hardware store. Let them know your fireplace is non-functional, and they can suggest a suitable paint or polish for your needs.
What should I do if Hot Spot Ready to Use Mortar dissolves and becomes sandy after rain?
Hot Spot Ready to Use Mortar is specifically designed for repairing the interior of fireplaces and should not be applied in thick layers or used as a render. Damp or humid conditions can affect curing time. If you’re using it for external projects like mosaic work on a pizza oven, we recommend Instant Brick, which is better suited for these types of applications.
It is not recommended for outdoor use unless protected from wet weather by a roofed area.
Once the putty has dried for 24+ hours, there should be no significant odour when heated. You may notice a slight smell of steam as any remaining moisture evaporates, particularly if the putty is applied thickly. This steam is just heated water vapour and does not indicate the release of any volatile or organic compounds.
Hot Spot Ready to Use Mortar is primarily designed for indoor use but can be used in outdoor stoves and similar applications, provided it is protected from moisture. Ensure the putty is fully air-dried for at least 24 hours before exposure to wet weather. For storage, keep the lid tightly closed and store away from heat to prevent unused product from drying out. It is not recommended for use outdoors unless kept in a roofed area to shield it from rain and dew.
1400°C
Hot Spot Ready to Use Mortar requires 24 hours to air dry. Once this period has passed, you can use your heater.
Firewise Hot Spot Ready to Use Mortar is not recommended for outdoor use unless the area is fully protected from wet weather, such as under a roofed patio. While the putty dries rock-hard within 24 hours (longer in cold or humid conditions) and can be painted after seven days, exposure to rain and moisture may stop it from hardening/setting.
The primary difference between Hot Spot Ready to Use Mortar and Black Patch Stove Putty is their colour. Hotspot Ready Mortar is sandy-coloured, while Black Patch Stove Putty is black.
In principle, Hot Spot Ready to Use Mortar should hold the pieces together for repairs, as it is designed for use in high-heat areas like fireplaces. However, we have not specifically tested this product in a Kamado Cooker environment. We recommend consulting with a professional for more durable repairs in high-heat applications like a Kamado Cooker.
No, Hot Spot Ready to Use Mortar cannot be used as a render, as it cannot be applied too thickly without the risk of cracking. For this type of project, we recommend our Instant Brick Castable Cement, which is more suited for thicker layers.
Once the liquid from Hot Spot Ready to Use Mortar is exposed to air or heat, it sets and cannot be physically removed. To lighten the effect, you can try using Jif cream, which contains a cutting agent in its formula (test on an inconspicuous area first), or a magic eraser.
Hot Spot Ready Mortar is suitable for sealing cracks in a domestic oven. However, we recommend preparing the surface by etching it first. Since domestic ovens often have a smooth surface, using sandpaper to roughen, it will help the mortar adhere better.
1000°C.
Yes, Instant Brick can be used for outside applications on your brick BBQ. Ensure it is protected from rain and moisture for 24 hours until the curing process is complete.
Yes! Instant Brick is an excellent solution for repairing or replacing bricks in your fireplace. Here’s how to use it:
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Prepare the mix: Empty the entire contents of the tub into a plastic bucket. Slowly add water, mixing with a trowel until you achieve a dry, crumbly paste. Gradually add more water until the mixture becomes a pliable ball.
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Shape the brick: On a clean, flat surface, mould the mix into the size and shape of the brick you need. You can trim the brick with a knife if required.
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Prepare the area: Clean the area to be filled, removing any loose material or dust, then lightly wet the surface with water.
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Place the brick: Firmly place the moulded brick into the vacant space.
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Dry and set: Allow the brick to air dry for 24 hours. Once dry, heat set it with a small, gentle fire.
After completing these steps, your fireplace is ready for use again!
Instant Brick Castable Cement is specifically designed for repairing and replacing fireplace bricks that are exposed to high temperatures. It is not intended for structural applications such as load-bearing walls. For this type of repair, it’s best to consult your local hardware store or a professional bricklayer for advice on the appropriate materials.
Yes, Instant Brick can be used as a render for your pizza oven. The formula is well-suited for application in thicker layers. For the best results, ensure the product is fully dry and keep it protected from the elements for as long as possible before use. Read directions of use for more detailed information.
To remove high-temperature paint, you can use a heat gun to soften it and then scrape it off. Alternatively, a sandblaster can be used for more stubborn areas, helping to effectively remove the paint from surfaces.
Yes, High Temperature Paint can be used to paint a motorbike exhaust, provided you can cure the paint with heat (not a fire).
No, a primer is not required before using New Coat High Temp Paint.
No, it’s best to stick with stove polish. However, if you do want to use paint, you will need to sand back the stove and ensure all traces of stove polish are removed.
The VOC content is approximately 440 grams per litre. Please note that the VOC is calculated according to the definition of what constitutes a VOC under Australian considerations and as used by APAS (Australian Paints Approval Scheme), which is the defining body in Australia.
Our New Coat High Temp Paint is solvent-based.
While we haven’t specifically tested New Coat High Temp Paint on brick, it should work in theory, as bricks are porous, and our paint contains a built-in primer. However, we recommend following all application instructions carefully to ensure the best results. Since each fireplace setup can vary, testing a small area beforehand is also advised.
Our High Temp Paint contains a built-in primer, so your metal surface does not need to be primed with anything else. Having another heat-resistant coating underneath prevents our paint from curing correctly, causing the bubbling and delamination on the surface.
The 30–40% refers to the proportion of the product’s total weight or volume that consists of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This means that the product falls into the high-VOC category.
The Soot-Loose Chimney & Flue Cleaner contains a special solvent that is activated by heat. When placed on hot coals, the solvent is released into the airflow, travelling up the flue. It then breaks down the tar that holds soot deposits together, making it easier to clean your chimney.
The best time to use Soot-Loose is at the end of the burn, when the airflow is slow and steady. Soot-Loose will be most effective when there is no active flame or when the flame has died down. If the airflow is too fast, the product will not have enough time to react properly.
No, Soot-Loose does not contain harmful or corrosive chemicals and is safe for both people and the environment when used as directed.
No, Soot-Loose is formulated with a solvent and does not contain corrosive salts, making it safe for use on metal flues without causing corrosion.
We recommend using Soot-Loose weekly during periods of use to maintain optimal performance and prevent buildup.
You should clean your flue if you notice any of the following signs:
- Reduced airflow or difficulty getting the fire to burn properly.
- A strong, musty smell of smoke backed up into the room.
- An excessive buildup of soot or creosote on the chimney walls.
- Visible signs of tar or dark stains inside the flue.
Regular cleaning helps maintain efficiency and safety and prevents fire hazards. If you’re unsure, having your flue inspected by a professional is always a good idea.
Soot-Loose is suitable for all types of heating units, including open fireplaces and brick flues.
If it’s been more than 10 years or you’ve never cleaned your chimney, it’s important to take action immediately. Here’s what you should do:
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Schedule a professional inspection: A chimney sweep can assess your chimney’s condition and determine any safety concerns, such as dangerous creosote buildup or blockages.
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Use a chimney cleaner like Soot-Loose: Once inspected, you can safely use a product like Soot-Loose Chimney & Flue Cleaner to help break down tar and soot.
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Regular maintenance: Going forward, use Soot-Loose Chimney & Flue Cleaner weekly if the fireplace is in constant use. We recommend having your chimney inspected by a professional at least once a year.
Yes, it is okay to use Soot-Loose in a double burn wood heater.
Soot-Loose is not recommended for use on a Weber Kettle, as it has not been tested for this application. For buildup caused by oil and food residue, we suggest using our Magic BBQ Cleaner & Degreaser.
Soot-Loose is non-toxic, but the active ingredient can be harmful if consumed in large quantities. Each sachet contains 8 grams of active ingredient, and the fatal dose is 3.6 grams per kilogram of body weight. Symptoms of ingestion may include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. If your dog shows any of these symptoms, immediately take them to the vet and ensure they drink plenty of water. To prevent future incidents, always store products like Soot-Loose, out of reach of pets and children.
Soot refers to the fine black particles, chiefly composed of carbon, that are produced by the incomplete combustion of coal, oil, wood, or other fuels.
Tar is a thick, black, viscous liquid obtained by the distillation of wood, coal, or other materials. Its composition varies depending on the temperature and material used in its production.
Creosote is a colourless to yellowish oily liquid containing phenols and creosols. It is obtained by the destructive distillation of wood tar, particularly from beech wood. Historically, it was used as an expectorant for treating chronic bronchitis.
Yes, you can use Soot-Loose on a wood-burning stove with a catalytic converter.
Yes, Soot-Loose is suitable for use in such flues. The product is designed to soften resins and tars inside the chimney flue, causing them to collapse and drip back into the fireplace to be consumed by ongoing fires. It does not cause additional residues to land on the roof any more than would occur with normal use.
Yes, this is normal. At around 250 degrees Celsius, the heat will cause the sachet to pop and the active ingredient will evaporate up the flue. The carrier ingredients typically remain in the sachet and may appear as a black residue
For best results, you should close the door when using a Soot-Loose sachet. This helps contain the cleaning process and prevents any loosened material from falling onto the floor in front of the fireplace. If you have an open fireplace, placing a guard in front to protect people, floor coverings, or furniture from any debris is a good idea.
No, Soot-Loose is designed for wood heaters and fireplaces that have chimneys. Gas fireplaces typically do not have a traditional chimney like wood-burning fireplaces. Instead, they use a venting system, which may be a direct vent or a chimney-like flue, to safely expel gases produced during combustion. Some gas fireplaces are ventless, meaning they don’t require a venting system at all.
If you have a dirt glass try Firewise Crystal Clear Fireplace Glass Cleaner.
The product is designed to soften resins and tars inside the chimney flue, causing them to collapse and drip back into the fireplace to be consumed by ongoing fires. It does not cause additional residues to land on the roof any more than would occur with normal use.
If any residue does land on your solar panels, it will be similar to the dust that naturally accumulates on them and should not cause significant issues.
The black liquid you see is likely tar that has been broken down by Soot-Loose. As it cools, it can solidify and become hard to remove. To help break it down further, try heating the fireplace again. The heat will assist in loosening the residue. For easier future maintenance, we recommend using Soot-Loose more frequently. If the build-up persists, you may need to contact a professional to thoroughly remove any remaining residue.
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