How do you know if a chimney needs to be replaced?

• <div><p>Visible signs that call for repair include cracks in the structure, the bricks, or mortar as well as loose bricks, flaky mortar, and <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/chimney-leaking-inside-house.htm">chimney leaks</a>. Some less obvious signs are dampness, discoloration, and efflorescence, a white substance that can look like a pale stain on the bricks. All of these indicate water damage, which can be devastating to a chimney’s safety. </p></div>

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Q: Is an outdoor wood furnace worth it?

• <div><p>An outdoor wood furnace might be worth it, depending on your situation. For example, if you can easily (and affordably) acquire wood to burn, then an outside furnace could make sense. Investing in an outdoor furnace might also be worth it if you live in a rural area without a reliable energy source.</p></div>

Q: What are the cons of fireplace inserts?

• <div><p>While fireplace inserts can help you make more use of your fireplace, they do come with some drawbacks. Some cons of fireplace inserts include the sometimes high cost of the insert and installation, the ongoing maintenance to buy fuel and clean the fireplace insert, and the efficiency. Fireplace inserts can operate more efficiently than an open fireplace, but they may not heat your home as evenly as an HVAC system.</p></div>

Q: What type of fireplace insert is most efficient?

• <div><p>Gas fireplace inserts are considered the most efficient because they convert more of the fuel source&mdash;gas&mdash;into heat. They offer excellent heat output per the amount of fuel they use. While electric fireplace inserts are praised for their efficiency, keep in mind that they don&rsquo;t offer as strong a heat output but may still be a great choice if you want an efficient option. </p></div>

Q: What if my chimney doesn't have a damper?

• <div><p>If your chimney doesn't have a damper, you are reducing your home's energy efficiency while allowing drafts, debris, and even animals to enter your home. Remember, installing a damper helps regulate airflow, keeping warm air inside during winter and preventing cooled air from escaping in the summer. It also acts as a barrier to keep out moisture and critters. </p></div>

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See It N 3D Design & Technical Illustrations

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See It N 3D Design & Technical Illustrations

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18 years of experience

The end product will be your Blue Prints, Floor Plans, Notes or drawings (non-technical nor artistic required) designed and converted digitally into 3D (Isometric) full color digital images. (animation available). The purpose and value of my service is convey ideas and purpose of my Clients (Architects, Designers, Artists, Contractors, Home Owners etc.) into images from 8.5 to 11" to Large format such as Poster Board or Bill Board size for advertisement or demonstration, Video 3D animation also available. SEEIT N 3D before you build it SAVE $ and TIME. My illustrations are the last step before the project becomes a reality. I have saved my clients thousands of dollars by allowing a Virtual Reality Preview of the end product/ project using the proposed materials, colors and textures. Email for a free consultation, include samples for a quote.

Fireplaces questions, answered by experts

An outdoor wood furnace might be worth it, depending on your situation. For example, if you can easily (and affordably) acquire wood to burn, then an outside furnace could make sense. Investing in an outdoor furnace might also be worth it if you live in a rural area without a reliable energy source.

While fireplace inserts can help you make more use of your fireplace, they do come with some drawbacks. Some cons of fireplace inserts include the sometimes high cost of the insert and installation, the ongoing maintenance to buy fuel and clean the fireplace insert, and the efficiency. Fireplace inserts can operate more efficiently than an open fireplace, but they may not heat your home as evenly as an HVAC system.

Gas fireplace inserts are considered the most efficient because they convert more of the fuel source—gas—into heat. They offer excellent heat output per the amount of fuel they use. While electric fireplace inserts are praised for their efficiency, keep in mind that they don’t offer as strong a heat output but may still be a great choice if you want an efficient option.

Visible signs that call for repair include cracks in the structure, the bricks, or mortar as well as loose bricks, flaky mortar, and chimney leaks. Some less obvious signs are dampness, discoloration, and efflorescence, a white substance that can look like a pale stain on the bricks. All of these indicate water damage, which can be devastating to a chimney’s safety.

If your chimney doesn't have a damper, you are reducing your home's energy efficiency while allowing drafts, debris, and even animals to enter your home. Remember, installing a damper helps regulate airflow, keeping warm air inside during winter and preventing cooled air from escaping in the summer. It also acts as a barrier to keep out moisture and critters.

The Lahaina, HI homeowners’ guide to fireplace services

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

See all articles

Taylor Freitas
•
Oct 22, 2025Oct 22, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Fireplace? [2025 Data]
The average cost to remove a fireplace is $4,500, but your overall cost will depend on the type of fireplace, its condition, and other factors.
Mitchell Grant
•
Oct 13, 2025Oct 13, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Fireplace Insert? [2025 Data]
The cost of removing a fireplace insert depends on the type of insert that’s installed. Read on to learn why electric is cheaper than a gas or wood insert.
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Oct 15, 2025Oct 15, 2025
How Much Does Fireplace Installation Cost? [2025 Data]
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Deane Biermeier
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Feb 15, 2025Feb 15, 2025
6 Fireplace Questions to Ask Before You Install
If you’re preparing to add the beauty and warmth of a new fireplace, here are the brick or stone fireplace questions to ask surrounding their installation.
Melissa Graham
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Feb 24, 2025Feb 24, 2025
5 Questions to Ask About Repairing a Brick or Stone Fireplace
Your burning fireplace questions don’t have to go unanswered. Before hiring a pro for brick or stone fireplace repair, here’s what to discuss.
Barbara Bellesi Zito
•
Aug 30, 2024Aug 30, 2024
Can You Install a Fireplace Without a Chimney?
Find out if you really need a chimney to install a fireplace in your home. This guide helps you understand your options, such as a ventless fireplace, when choosing the right fireplace for your home if you don't have a chimney.