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.
Living room with fireplace
Taylor Freitas
•
Jul 16, 2024
Jul 16, 2024
The average cost to remove a fireplace is $4,500, but your overall cost will depend on the type of fireplace, its condition, and other factors.
Cozy living room with gas fireplace
C.E. Larusso
•
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.
gas fireplace in modern family home
Christopher Savage
•
Oct 25, 2023
Oct 25, 2023
With a gas fireplace, it’s important to stay up-to-date on your inspections. Learn more about how much gas fireplace inspections cost before you book one.
Cozy fireplace
Dan Simms
•
Aug 16, 2023
Aug 16, 2023
Give that stone fireplace in your home the attention it deserves! Use these stacked stone fireplace ideas to draw attention and add some elegance to your room.
red brick chimney
Nick P. Cellucci
•
Sep 17, 2024
Sep 17, 2024
Gaps and other faults in your chimney flashing sealant can leave your home vulnerable to leaks. Learn how to seal chimney flashing with this guide.
A gas fireplace in a living room
Mariel Loveland
•
Aug 1, 2023
Aug 1, 2023
Just because gas is simpler to light than wood doesn’t mean it’s easy. This guide will show you how to light a gas fireplace, no matter the model.
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Fireplace burning in a modern living room
Haniya Rae  •  Oct 2, 2024
How to Use Creosote Sweeping Logs to Keep Your Chimney Clean and Safe
Knowing how to use a creosote sweeping log for additional maintenance in between your annual chimney sweep can help keep your home safe from fires.
House chimney with chimney cap
Deirdre Sullivan  •  Sep 26, 2024
How to Install a Chimney Cap Safely and Efficiently
Discover how to install a chimney cap, what to consider whn purchasing a chimney cap, and the benefits of chimney cap installation.
A brick chimney on a roof
Deirdre Sullivan  •  Sep 25, 2024
How to Block Your Chimney Flue: 11 Steps to a Draft-Free Home
If you’re wondering how to block a chimney flue, we have a solution for those looking for a permanent or temporary fix.
Woman in front of fireplace
Lawrence Bonk  •  Sep 24, 2024
How Much Does Chimney Crown Repair Cost? [2024 Data]
The average cost to repair or replace a chimney crown depends on the damage, material, and any other chimney maintenance services bundled into your project.
Roof with white chimney
Jill Harness  •  Sep 23, 2024
How Much Does Chimney Replacement Cost? [2024 Data]
Your overall chimney replacement cost will depend on the type, material, and size of your chimney and whether it needs to be fully rebuilt.
stone chimney on roof
Kyle Schurman  •  Sep 23, 2024
How Much Does a Chimney Inspection Cost? [2024 Data]
Your chimney inspection cost will vary based on the type of inspection, how accessible the chimney is, the chimney size, and the number of flues.
Mother and daughter at home relaxing by the fireplace
Deirdre Sullivan  •  Sep 23, 2024
How to Remove Creosote From Your Chimney Flue: 2 Methods
Homeowners should know how to remove creosote from chimney flue, but it’s safer to leave this hazardous task to a professional chimney cleaner.
a brick chimney along a yellow house with blue sky in background
Chris Middleton  •  Sep 23, 2024
How to Hire a Chimney Sweep
Your chimney sweep may not wear a top hat and dance on the ceiling, but they will keep your home safe by providing chimney inspections and cleanings. Follow these steps to learn how to hire a qualified and trusted chimney sweep in your town.
roof with brick chimney
Becca Lewis  •  Sep 20, 2024
How Much Does Chimney Flashing Repair or Replacement Cost? [2024 Data]
Notice leaks and corrosion around your chimney? You might need new flashing or some careful repairs. Here are some common chimney flashing repair costs.
A living room with an armchair and a burning fireplace
Deirdre Sullivan  •  Sep 20, 2024
How to Open a Chimney Flue in 3 Quick Steps
Before you light that fire, learn how to open a chimney flue safely in three quick steps. We also share what to do if it needs to be fixed.
Man stoking the fire in a brick fireplace
Deirdre Sullivan  •  Sep 20, 2024
How to Install a Chimney Damper and When It’s Best to Call a Pro
Learn everything you need to know about how to install a chimney damper, then decide whether to do it yourself or hire a local professional.
A person cleaning a metal chimney on a tiled roof
Chelsea Van Bloom  •  Sep 20, 2024
Do Metal Chimney Flues Need Cleaning?
If you have a new chimney or chimney liner, you may wonder if metal chimney flues need cleaning. The short answer is yes, you need to clean a metal chimney flue.