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.
couple sitting in front of fireplace at home
May 9, 2025
May 9, 2025
The average fireplace installation cost is $2,438, but prices vary depending on the type and size of the fireplace. Calculate your costs with our guide.
living room with lit fireplace
Jun 3, 2025
Jun 3, 2025
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.
 A lounge area with a contemporary concrete fireplace insert
Jan 15, 2025
Jan 15, 2025
Many homeowners upgrade their old fireplace with inserts to get more heat and save energy and money. Learn more about the cost of installing a fireplace insert.
Girl standing on top of mother’s feet in contemporary living room with white fireplace and greige chair
Jul 3, 2024
Jul 3, 2024
Breathe life into your living space with these fireplace remodel ideas that increase your home’s cozy appeal while engaging your aesthetic.
A woman turning on an electric fireplace
May 6, 2025
May 6, 2025
Wondering about the difference between gas versus electric fireplaces? This guide explains the pros, cons, and costs of these popular fireplace types.
home interior with fireplace
Jun 9, 2025
Jun 9, 2025
What is a fireplace insert? It’s like a traditional fire in a box—which helps keep the heat it generates in your house, rather than draining out the chimney.
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A woman in front of an electric fireplace
Is your electric fireplace acting up? Troubleshoot seven of the most common electric fireplace problems with this guide.
A red brick house with a chimney
If you have a wood-burning fireplace, it’s important to understand what causes chimney fires so you can reduce the risk of a fire in your home.
A young woman drinking a beverage in front of the fireplace
How do you stop that pesky draft from your fireplace? The answer depends on why it’s there, but no matter what, there’s a fix for it.
A person turning off a fireplace via a remote control
Is your fireplace remote control not working? Find out five common reasons why it won’t fire up the fireplace, plus tips on how to fix the issue.
Roof with white chimney
Replacing your chimney increases home value and prevents hazardous structural damage. Learn how much to budget for chimney replacement costs.
A couple sitting on the sofa with their dog and enjoying the fireplace
So your fireplace stinks—what’s the deal? Find out the six potential reasons why your fireplace smells and how to fix them.
gray chimney on roof
Chimney repair costs can vary by the type of chimney you have and the required repairs. Use this guide to help you estimate project costs.
home interior with fireplace
What is a fireplace insert? It’s like a traditional fire in a box—which helps keep the heat it generates in your house, rather than draining out the chimney.
modern living room with fireplace
There are four fireplace types: wood-burning, gas, electric, and ethanol. The right one for your home depends on your desired aesthetic and level of upkeep.
 chimney fireplace roof
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.
living room with lit fireplace
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.
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.