How do I know if my chimney is safe?

• <div><p>There are a few things you can look out for to ensure your chimney is safe to use. Check for the following issues:</p><ul><li><p>Cracks or missing pieces in the masonry of the chimney</p></li><li><p>Creosote buildup in the chimney, which is a black, tar-like substance</p></li><li><p>Cracks, stains, or scorch marks in the firebox</p></li><li><p>Water stains in or around the fireplace</p></li><li><p>A broken or stuck damper</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Can you use a fireplace after the insert is removed?

• <div><p>In some cases, you can use a fireplace once the insert has been removed. However, before burning a fire, you must have a professional inspect it and the chimney to make sure they're functioning properly and no damage has occurred from removing the insert. That’s because using a fireplace without an insert could create fire hazards due to issues with airflow and heat dispersion, depending on the fireplace design and material. A professional can advise on whether you should make certain repairs or modifications before using your fireplace as an open hearth.</p></div>

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*The Angi rating for Fire Pit Installation companies in San Mateo, CA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Fire Pit Installation needs.

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Last update on June 29, 2026

Reviewed in June 2026
Had our old/boring brick fireplace refaced With beautiful stained glass, custom made by [email protected]. Its looks LOVELY, great tile installer also. Thank you Eric Pedersen. It came out better than I had expected.
Pedersen Tile And Marble
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Reviewed in June 2026
We had a great experience with Jacob the project manager he helped us a lot by understand what kind of gate we need to install and what will fit in our budget and they did really a great job and the crew was very nice and did everything in the right way .
attic team inc
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Reviewed in September 2025
We had a great experience working with Will and his team at Sequoia Outdoor. From design to demo to installation, every step was well communicated, coordinated, and executed. Our backyard has been transformed into a much more usable and beautiful space through Sequoia’s guidance on landscaping,...
Sequoia Outdoor Design & Build
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Reviewed in May 2025
Juan installed dog door and mouldings on my door and he did a good job. Will hire again .
JP Services
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Reviewed in April 2025
The installation went very well and on time. Kevin told me 41/2 hours and that is what it took, he also cleaned up. Kevin is very nice and professional. I would highly recommend him and Doofgi Doors.
Doorgi Garage Doors
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Reviewed in February 2024
Florin provided a superior tile installation. We had another tile job in out project. But the level of professionalism and customer service provided by Florin was so superior that I highly recommend his company. He not only provided advice on product selection but design and installation...
Express Tile Design
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Reviewed in October 2023
He was very professional, on time and very detailed. He replaced my water heater and upgrade the install and made sure the work was within code. I would hire him again for any plumbing services in the future and would highly recommend him.
Durrani Plumbing
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Reviewed in November 2021
We had a truly pro crew come to install our heat pump. Morjen, Ben and the others were careful, exacting, and conscientious about a complex installation inside and underneath an old house.
Bell Brother's Heating and Air, Inc.
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Reviewed in November 2021
Project: Clean and Inspect a Wood Fireplace Chimney Javid was very polite and effifcient, he ensured the fire burned cleanly and then cleaned up so I wouldn't know he was here. Will definitely rehire.
Duct Pros
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Reviewed in October 2021
We needed a new water heater and these guys did a great job installing and making sure everything beyond that was addressed. After the initial appointment (very easy to make) they gave us advance notice of their arrival time and showed up on time - so important and respectful! The work was done...
Cabrillo Plumbing
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Fire Pit Installation questions, answered by experts

There are a few things you can look out for to ensure your chimney is safe to use. Check for the following issues:

Cracks or missing pieces in the masonry of the chimney
Creosote buildup in the chimney, which is a black, tar-like substance
Cracks, stains, or scorch marks in the firebox
Water stains in or around the fireplace
A broken or stuck damper

In some cases, you can use a fireplace once the insert has been removed. However, before burning a fire, you must have a professional inspect it and the chimney to make sure they're functioning properly and no damage has occurred from removing the insert. That’s because using a fireplace without an insert could create fire hazards due to issues with airflow and heat dispersion, depending on the fireplace design and material. A professional can advise on whether you should make certain repairs or modifications before using your fireplace as an open hearth.

No, it is not safe to leave a propane heater on overnight. Even if you’re using the heater in a well-ventilated space, the heaters can emit carbon monoxide that can lead to fires. Be sure to fully turn off and secure the propane heater before clearing the area.

Yes, it is possible. An electrical fire can break out if the compressor has inadequate ventilation. When it overheats but doesn't have a proper thermal cutout, this can cause the motor to short-circuit and catch fire. This risk is exacerbated if flammable materials, like dust and fallen leaves, are clogging the unit. The compressor overheating won't start a fire by itself, but poor maintenance and installation can increase the risk once it hits its breaking point and short-circuits.

The damper, located just above the firebox, can open or close the chimney flue. The damper should remain closed unless there’s a fire burning in the fireplace. Closing the damper prevents energy loss through the chimney and cold air from seeping into the home during the winter. Opening the damper helps maintain airflow when there is a fire and prevents smoke and gases from venting into the house.

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