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.
gas fireplace in modern family home
Rachel Hoffman
•
Nov 25, 2024
Nov 25, 2024
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.
Large electric fireplace set in a bright modern living room
Amy Freeman
•
Jun 26, 2024
Jun 26, 2024
The up-front cost of an electric fireplace is lower than a gas or wood-burning fireplace. This guide will help you understand what you're paying for.
Living Room Interior in New Home with Furniture and Fireplace
Deirdre Sullivan
•
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.
A woman reading book in front of fireplace
Paige Bennett
•
Jul 16, 2024
Jul 16, 2024
From crackling wood-burning to electric, homeowners have several types of fireplace inserts to choose from. But how do you decide which is right for you?
Luxury living room with fireplace and high ceiling
Mitchell Grant
•
Jan 17, 2024
Jan 17, 2024
The cost of removing a fireplace insert depends on the type of insert that’s installed. Read on to learn why electric is cheaper than a gas or wood insert.
A library in a house with two armchairs and a fireplace with a hearth
Staci Parks
•
Aug 15, 2024
Aug 15, 2024
Understanding what a fireplace hearth is can help you determine what type you want in your home or how to remodel an existing fixture for optimal results.
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Ladder propped up on chimney of house
Nick P. Cellucci  •  Dec 18, 2024
How Much Does Chimney Removal Cost? [2025 Data]
The typical chimney removal costs between $1,000 and $10,000, but much of that price depends on whether it’s a full or partial removal. Get the full cost breakdown here.
Library sitting room with built-in bookcases and a white fireplace
Nick P. Cellucci  •  Dec 18, 2024
How Much Does a Chimney Sweep Cost? [2025 Data]
Chimney sweep costs can be dramatically affected by the type of chimney, its location, and how dirty it is.
Cozy brick house with chimney and walkway
Stacey L. Nash  •  Dec 17, 2024
The Ultimate Homeowner’s Chimney Inspection Checklist
Stay on top of your chimney safety and maintenance with our chimney inspection checklist featuring expert tips on how to work with an inspector near you.
gas fireplace in modern family home
Rachel Hoffman  •  Nov 25, 2024
How Much Does a Gas Fireplace Inspection Cost? [2024 Data]
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.
Mother and daughter having a good time sitting by the fireplace
Timothy Moore  •  Nov 21, 2024
How to Put Out a Fire in a Fireplace at the End of the Night
Wondering how to put out a fire in a fireplace? Put down that bucket of water — we’ll show you how to put out fire the right way.
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.
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.
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.