Chimneys & Fireplaces

Your chimney and fireplace offer your home warmth and charm—but in return, they need your help to work well and last for years. Our expert guidance on how to inspect, maintain, repair, and replace chimneys and fireplaces will teach you everything you need to know—including who to call if something goes awry.

Living room with a traditional fireplace
Photo: bmak / Adobe Stock
Living room with a traditional fireplace
Photo: bmak / Adobe Stock
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From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Elegant gas fireplace
Aug 12, 2024
Aug 12, 2024
Before installing a gas fireplace insert, it’s important to understand the various cost factors. Here’s how much an average gas fireplace insert costs.
Cozy living room with gas fireplace
Jan 5, 2024
Jan 5, 2024
This guide shares information about the cost to remove a gas fireplace, including the average price to additionally remove the breast, stack, and chimney flue as well as which experts will be needed to complete the project.
Living Room Interior in New Home with Furniture and Fireplace
Aug 30, 2024
Aug 30, 2024
The firebox handles the brunt of the work in your fireplace. If your firebox is wearing down, check out the average costs of repairs and replacements.
living room with lit fireplace
May 13, 2024
May 13, 2024
A fireplace remodel cost depends on the extent of the remodel and the materials you choose. Use this guide to calculate your costs and budget accordingly.
Woman sitting by the fireplace reading a book
Nov 10, 2023
Nov 10, 2023
Wondering who to hire for a fireplace remodel? You have a few options, and we've rounded them up to help you make the best decision.
Fireplace in luxury home
Aug 30, 2024
Aug 30, 2024
Find out if you really need a chimney to install a fireplace in your home. This guide helps you understand your options, such as a ventless fireplace, when choosing the right fireplace for your home if you don't have a chimney.
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A professional sealing a chimney cap
Sealing your chimney is one of the most affordable ways to prevent water from penetrating the bricks. This guide breaks down the cost to seal a chimney.
A roof with a brick chimney
Chimney leaks are no joke, as they can lead to mold and water damage. Here’s who to call for a chimney leak to get this issue fixed quickly.
Brick house with chimney
If you want to be sure your chimney is working properly, you’ll need a professional inspection. So who does chimney inspections? We’ve got all the info.
A view of a ladder leading to a chimney
If your chimney has structural damage, a partial or complete chimney rebuild is the only way to continue safely enjoying your fireplace.
A front view of a  white colonial style house with chimney
Wondering how often to clean a chimney? Our guide will walk you through the recommended frequency, best time of year, and common signs your chimney’s due for a cleaning.
Living Room Interior in New Home with Furniture and Fireplace
The firebox handles the brunt of the work in your fireplace. If your firebox is wearing down, check out the average costs of repairs and replacements.
Fireplace in luxury home
Find out if you really need a chimney to install a fireplace in your home. This guide helps you understand your options, such as a ventless fireplace, when choosing the right fireplace for your home if you don't have a chimney.
Brick house exterior
Figuring out the cost for tuckpointing at your home is based on square footage. Most contractors will charge more for elevated surfaces above 8 feet.
A red brick house with a chimney
Your home’s chimney is made up of several parts. But when it comes to the difference between a chimney damper versus a flue, these parts work together.
Living room interior with cozy fireplace
Wondering what is a chimney damper? A chimney damper is a small flap that allows you to open and shut the airflow through your chimney.
Stylish fireplace at home
If you own a fireplace, learning how to open and close your chimney flue ensures you allow smoke out of your home when it’s in use and stay warm when it’s not.
A roof with red tiles and chimney
Your chimney liner is a major piece of your fireplace. But what is it and what does it do? Learn the different types of flue liners and whether you need one.