Get matched with top fireplace pros in Salcha, AK

A fireplace hearth is a fireproof flooring material that extends out from the base of the fireplace and into the room. Hearths can be made of brick, ceramic, marble, limestone, and more. A hearth serves the purpose of decreasing the fire risk in the area directly around the fireplace. If flying embers hit carpet or wood, they’ll spark and create a fire. But if they hit something like tile or granite, they’ll simply go out.

While it is possible to clean your own chimney and fireplace with the appropriate brushes and safety gear, hiring a professional is often recommended. A professional ensures thorough creosote removal and compliance with safety standards. They can also safely access high or hidden areas that may be difficult for a homeowner to reach, providing comprehensive assurance that the job is completed correctly and safely.

Because of the potential danger associated with incorrectly capping the gas line that serves the gas fireplace, many people will choose to hire a professional to do the work. Some homeowners may choose to hire a pro to only handle the gas line for them. They then may attempt to remove the actual insert on their own, which is a challenging—but not impossible—DIY project.

There are a few things you can keep an eye out for that indicate you may need to call in a gas fireplace repair tech:

• Your fireplace pilot light won’t stay on.

• You notice the smell of rotten eggs.

• You hear hissing coming from the gas fireplace.

• You notice a soot build-up.

• The fire goes out unexpectedly.

If you notice a rotten egg smell or hear hissing, you could have a gas leak, which is extremely dangerous. Call the fire department and your gas company first to shut off the gas and air out your home before calling for a repair.