Get matched with top fireplace pros in Walsh, CO

The best location for a wood stove depends on your home's layout and venting options. For optimal heat distribution, a central location on the ground floor, such as the living room, is often recommended. If you have an existing, functional chimney, installing the stove there can simplify the venting process. Alternatively, placing the stove near an outside wall can make it easier to route a new chimney through the roof. For safety, ensure no combustible materials are near the stove. Building codes typically require 20 to 36 inches of clearance between the stove and any side walls.

Outdoor fireplaces are extremely sturdy if constructed correctly, but they do require regular maintenance. The good news is that cleaning and checking the fireplace needs to be done just once a year. However, for safety reasons, let a professional clean the fireplace. Homeowners should expect to pay between $100 and $300 for outdoor fireplace maintenance. Any damage to the fireplace itself, however, will cost much more to repair.

Like any other household appliance, electric fireplaces can wear out after about 10 to 20 years. With more frequent use, the parts will wear out quicker, and you may get just 7 to 10 years out of a well-loved electric fireplace. Fortunately, electric fireplaces come with a lower upfront installation cost compared to alternatives like gas, so you can install a replacement for less.

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.