How do I know if my chimney is safe to use?

• <div><p>One of the best ways to know your chimney is good to go on any given night is to simply look up into your flue with a flashlight. If you see a thick buildup of creosote—a shiny, dark substance that looks like tar—it’s best to have your fireplace professionally cleaned before you go ahead with the burn. Additionally, having your fireplace professionally inspected once per year can also help increase your peace of mind and keep your family and your home safe.</p></div>

Best fireplace pros near San Mateo, FL

Q: Do you open a flue with a gas fireplace?

• <div><p>Yes, if your gas fireplace has a flue, you typically need to open it when using the fireplace. Although gas fireplaces don&rsquo;t produce the type of smoke and soot that wood-burning ones do, they still release combustion gasses like carbon monoxide. Opening the flue ensures these gasses safely exit your home through the chimney. Not all <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/does-a-gas-fireplace-need-a-chimney.htm">gas fireplaces need a chimney</a>, however. Always check the manufacturer&rsquo;s instructions for your specific gas fireplace model, as some newer models may have different ventilation requirements. </p></div>

Q: How long do chimney dampers last?

• <div><p>The lifespan of a chimney damper depends on several factors, including its material, how often the fireplace is used, and the amount of debris that enters the chimney. With proper maintenance, an average damper can last about 20 years. To ensure it is functioning correctly, it is best to have it professionally inspected. Some experts recommend an annual inspection, while others suggest having a chimney sweep inspect and clean it every two years. A professional can assess the damper's condition and determine if a replacement is necessary.</p></div>

Q: How do I know what type of fireplace I currently have?

• <div><p>If you have a gas fireplace, you should be able to see a vent exiting the fireplace directly to the outside of your home. You may also see gas lines leading to the fireplace. If the firebox in the fireplace is completely empty, it&rsquo;s a wood-burning fireplace. There should be no burners or igniters in the fireplace.</p></div>

Q: How much does it cost to clean and inspect an oil-fired chimney?

• <div><p>The cost to clean and inspect an oil-fired chimney generally ranges from $150 to $500. The price is influenced by factors such as the chimney's height, the level of soot buildup, local labor costs, and whether any additional repairs or liner replacements are required.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Fireplace Service pros in San Mateo, FL

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

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Fireplace Service companies in San Mateo, FL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Fireplace Service needs.

Last update on August 12, 2026

Reviewed in August 2026
I had a deck replaced with new wood. It turned out beautiful!! Very pleased.
Beyond Land Solutions LLC
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Reviewed in January 2026
This glass company is the best - professional, experienced staff and they are able to customize products to your design needs. More than happy with the outcome of both bathrooms - thank you Clear Choice!!!
CC Shower Door of Orlando
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Reviewed in August 2025
I had a tree that was dying that was hanging over my house and their team came right on time, were able to take down the tree without any issues with my roof, and cleaned everything up very promptly and professionally! All for a great price! I’d recommend them to anyone!!
Nicole Lee's Trees LLC
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Reviewed in February 2025
They were very responsive and had the water heater installed 2 business days after I opened the project on Angi. The location of the condensate line was a little tricky and they made it right.
PV Plumbing
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Reviewed in June 2024
My son told me to get them look at my roof and do what they recommend. Well my son was right thank you Quinton for being everything my son said you was.
DSG Site Services
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Reviewed in January 2024
I loved the professionalism and how great my fireplace looks. I’m so glad I was referred to M&M
M&M Construction
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Reviewed in February 2023
I cannot speak more highly of AE1 Progas. Joseph was on time, knowledgable, and very efficeint. And he was sooo courteous!!! I had written another review based on my lack of understanding of costs associated with a fireplace upgrade with 3 stars After receiving a call back from the management...
A to Z Roofing
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Reviewed in August 2022
On the back side of the house
Florida Crete Construction
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Reviewed in April 2022
These guys explained everything in detail. Then they worked like mad men till 5 trees were cut, stacked and cleaned up. Even worked around my Barred Owl nest in a trunk. Could not be happier. These guys are not afraid of hard work at all. Many thanks.
B2V Services
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Reviewed in April 2022
They did a very professional job painting the exterior of my home. They also painted my little dog house to match for me at no additional cost. It was a small thing, but very special and a nice touch. I am very pleased and would definitely recommend them and use them again.
Painting Unlimited Contractors, Inc
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Top-Rated Fireplace pros in San Mateo - Updated Nov 2026

Clean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimneyBrick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - RepairPre-Fabricated Fireplace Unit (Non-Gas) - Repair+2 more

Serving San Mateo, FL and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 1997

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Curt stayed in touch, arrived on time and did a great job. The re-built fireplace looks like new and the work was done cleanly with great care to protect the area around the fireplace."

Response time7 hrs

40 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by95%of homeowners

Clean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stoveClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney

Serving San Mateo, FL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1980

Credit card accepted

Customers say: Super punctual

"Great! Associate was very helpful, showed me some grooves in the bottom of my fireplace and quickly repaired them."

Recommended by95%of homeowners

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Chimney and Air Ducts Doctors

4.9(

)

Brick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - RepairClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimneyBrick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - Install+8 more

Serving San Mateo, FL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2024

Credit card accepted

Offers commercial services

"They came in and deep clean my duct professionally and efficiently they worked in synchronised and did great job my house never smelt and felt more fresh thank you, Guys"

+13

98 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Chimney Sweep Pros, LLC

4.4(

)

Clean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimneyClean and Inspect a gas fireplace

Serving San Mateo, FL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2023

Credit card accepted

Offers commercial services

Chimney Sweep Pros LLC is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business

+20

Response time40 mins

Response rate100%

40 neighbors recently requested a quote

Clean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimneyClean and Inspect a gas fireplace

Serving San Mateo, FL and surrounding areas

Approved (Corporate)

In business since 2010

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Home Service is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

197 neighbors recently requested a quote

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ARTISAN STONE RESTORE SERVICES

5.0(

)

Clean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stove

Serving San Mateo, FL and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Small jobs welcome

At Artisan Stone Restore Services, we are committed to delivering professional, dependable, and high-quality services tailored to our clients’ needs. Our foundation is built on integrity, excellence, and creating long-term relationships through outstanding customer service and reliable results.

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Izzy Lopez

New to Angi

Clean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stoveClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney

Serving San Mateo, FL and surrounding areas

Approved

Let’s see what I can do for you!

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Task and Tinker LLC

New to Angi

Clean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stoveClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney

Serving San Mateo, FL and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Small jobs welcome

Task & Tinker is a family-owned and operated handyman and personal assistance service based in Florida. We offer a wide range of in-home repairs, improvements, and lifestyle support services designed to improve the well-being and daily comfort of our community. From painting and drywall repair to dog walking, rides to appointments, and everyday errands, Task & Tinker is committed to providing dependable, friendly, and high-quality service that Floridians can trust.\n\nTask & Tinker aims to bridge the gap between traditional handyman services and modern personal support services. Many Floridians—especially families, seniors, and busy professionals—need both home repairs and everyday assistance. Task & Tinker fills that gap with versatility, reliability, and a neighborly touch.

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Prewitt inc

New to Angi

Clean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stoveClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney

Serving San Mateo, FL and surrounding areas

Approved

Honest person looking to help the community.

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Jeneen bermudez

New to Angi

Clean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stoveClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney

Serving San Mateo, FL and surrounding areas

Approved

I have plenty of cleaning experience. I like to pay attention to detail and provide service in the best way possible.

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Showing 1-10 of 58

Fireplaces FAQs, answered by experts

Yes, if your gas fireplace has a flue, you typically need to open it when using the fireplace. Although gas fireplaces don’t produce the type of smoke and soot that wood-burning ones do, they still release combustion gasses like carbon monoxide. Opening the flue ensures these gasses safely exit your home through the chimney. Not all gas fireplaces need a chimney, however. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific gas fireplace model, as some newer models may have different ventilation requirements.

The lifespan of a chimney damper depends on several factors, including its material, how often the fireplace is used, and the amount of debris that enters the chimney. With proper maintenance, an average damper can last about 20 years. To ensure it is functioning correctly, it is best to have it professionally inspected. Some experts recommend an annual inspection, while others suggest having a chimney sweep inspect and clean it every two years. A professional can assess the damper's condition and determine if a replacement is necessary.

If you have a gas fireplace, you should be able to see a vent exiting the fireplace directly to the outside of your home. You may also see gas lines leading to the fireplace. If the firebox in the fireplace is completely empty, it’s a wood-burning fireplace. There should be no burners or igniters in the fireplace.

The cost to clean and inspect an oil-fired chimney generally ranges from $150 to $500. The price is influenced by factors such as the chimney's height, the level of soot buildup, local labor costs, and whether any additional repairs or liner replacements are required.

One of the best ways to know your chimney is good to go on any given night is to simply look up into your flue with a flashlight. If you see a thick buildup of creosote—a shiny, dark substance that looks like tar—it’s best to have your fireplace professionally cleaned before you go ahead with the burn. Additionally, having your fireplace professionally inspected once per year can also help increase your peace of mind and keep your family and your home safe.

The San Mateo, FL homeowners’ guide to fireplace services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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