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Deciding whether to buy a prebuilt fireplace kit or build one from scratch comes down to aesthetics, available space, and budget. Many homeowners like the convenience and lower cost of prebuilt options—around $1,500—versus the involved planning and construction of a larger fireplace. Another bonus: you can usually move prebuilt units. Custom projects are more common when homeowners have access to a larger budget and more area in the yard to place the fireplace.

You can use a fireplace with a broken damper, but only if the damper is in the open position. If not, your fireplace will not properly vent smoke outdoors. Never operate your fireplace if the damper is sealed shut and you cannot open it, as deadly smoke will quickly fill your home. If your fireplace damper is broken, have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

Common problems include pilot light failure, clogged burners, and faulty ignition systems. Regular maintenance prevents many issues.

The best way to clean fireplace bricks is to use a mild solution on saturated bricks. An equal mixture of water and vinegar or a drop of dish soap in a bowl of water can help remove grime from fireplace bricks. Make sure you wet the bricks thoroughly before applying the cleaner and rinse them after you’re done to prevent damage.