What are the most common chimney problems?

• <div><p>Some of the most <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/common-chimney-issues-and-repairs.htm">common chimney problems</a> include:</p><ul><li><p>Creosote buildup</p></li><li><p>Chimney blockage</p></li><li><p>Deteriorating brickwork or stonework</p></li><li><p>Cracked chimney top</p></li><li><p>Damaged flashing</p></li><li><p>Flue liner damage or deterioration</p></li><li><p>Damaged chimney cap</p></li></ul><p>If you suspect you have a chimney problem, contact a masonry contractor for an inspection. </p></div>

Best fireplace pros near Afton, IA

Q: Should an unused chimney be sealed or capped?

• <div><p>Yes, you should seal and cap an unused chimney to protect it from damage. Sealing the structure helps prevent moisture damage, which can lead to issues like cracks, spalling, efflorescence, and damaged mortar joints. Capping the chimney is also crucial to prevent blockages, damage from invasive critters, and downdrafts, while still allowing for proper air ventilation to manage moisture. For the best results, consult a chimney professional to select the right type of chimney or flue cap for your home. It's also wise to continue with annual chimney inspections to maintain the structure's integrity.</p></div>

Q: Can I clean my chimney from the bottom?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s possible to clean your chimney by accessing it from the opening above your fireplace, but be aware that this method is messier because you will be pulling loose buildup of soot, ash, and creosote into your fireplace instead of up, out, and onto the roof. While the bottom-up method can cause more of a mess, it&rsquo;s a good option if you&rsquo;re not comfortable getting on the roof.</p></div>

Q: How long do pellet stoves last?

• <div><p>A quality pellet stove that receives proper maintenance can last between 15 and 20 years, while most will last at least 10 years. The exact lifespan depends on factors like frequency of use and how well the stove is cared for. Proper maintenance&mdash;such as periodically cleaning the vents, vacuuming the ash pan, and refreshing the pellets as needed&mdash;can significantly extend its life, making it a worthwhile long-term investment.</p></div>

Q: Why won’t my chimney damper close?

• <div><p>Some of the reasons a chimney damper won't close properly include shoddy installation, age-related damage, or heavy snow or ice affecting a top-sealing type. Poor chimney maintenance and a buildup of rust, debris, or creosote can also cause dampers to jam. Annual inspections and <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-chimney-sweep-cost.htm">chimney sweep costs</a> are worth it to help you avoid a damper disaster. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Fireplace Service pros in Afton, IA

*The Angi rating for Fireplace Service companies in Afton, IA 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 Afton, IA 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 21, 2026

Reviewed in August 2026
They did a great job on our garage floor! It completely transformed our space. I’ll come back and post pictures when once I get things put away 😉
IRONCLAD PROTECTIVE COATINGS, LLC
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Reviewed in August 2026
Jason arrived on time Got straight to work repairing the auger. Got it apart and took the flights back to his shop and welded then.
IRON HEAD WELDING & REPAIR LLC
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Reviewed in July 2025
Our installer was extremely friendly and helpful. He was on time, cleaned up his messes and best of all got the work done in a single day. He took his time to figure out where to put the seat and the best height.
Mad City Windows & Baths
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Reviewed in November 2024
Honest young man with good working equipment that he rents out.
Comer Enterprises, LLC
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Reviewed in July 2024
We got new windows, gutters and siding. The crews were very curtious and professional. They worked in a timely manner and cleaned up after themselves. The end result was great. We would highly recommend them.
K-DESIGNERS
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Reviewed in May 2024
I got Trevor's Tree Service referred by a friend. He replied to me very quickly. I had a huge cedar tree damaged in a storm. Trevor came to look at the tree right away and scheduled me in just a few days. He was on time and had the tree down in a couple of hours. He's very nice,...
Trevor's Tree Service
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Reviewed in November 2022
Replaced gutters on 3 buildings. Also, had them install gutter guards . Excellent customer service. The owner is very much involved. Highly recommend
Gingerich Gutters
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Reviewed in May 2022
It went very well and smoothly. I will recommend this company over and over again. They cleaned everything up. I wanted to keep the larger pieces, they just picked them up and put them where I wanted. 6 guys and a bunch of equipment and knowledge.
Xtreme Tree Inc
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Reviewed in April 2022
The project was top notch. Not only did they consistently show up on time, but they finished the project early and were willing to reschedule the final walkthrough multiple times to accommodate our schedule. Final project turned out great!
Graham Home Inspections LLC
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Reviewed in September 2021
Strong attention to detail, very neat, and quality work.
Tammy Stuart
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Top-Rated Fireplace pros in Afton - Updated Nov 2026

Jazmine Jones

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 Afton, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

Later

Request Quote

Moreno painting 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 Afton, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Small jobs welcome

Over 10 years of experience professional quality work !

+12

Request Quote

Christensen Corrections

New to Angi

Clean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stoveClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney+3 more

Serving Afton, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

If you dream it I can design it and bring it to fruition

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

Serving Afton, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Everything is going great. Also added some other equipment such as app controlled door locks, etc."

Recommended by93%of homeowners

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Des Moines Area Roofing

4.8(

275

)

Brick or Stone Fireplace - Repair

Serving Afton, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"From the beginning to the end we had excellent customer service. Jan, office manager, kept us informed every day on the progress of the job. The owner, Tim, was very courteous, informative, and easy to work with. The last day finishing up the skylight the derecho hit and they worked quickly and safely to remove the equipment off the property. I'm sure they remember that day! The crew on the roof were excellent and they were meticulous in the final clean-up stage. We are pleased with our new skylights!"

Recommended by99%of homeowners

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Dave's Chimney Sweeps

5.0(

)

Brick or Stone Fireplace (Gas) - RepairBrick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - RepairGas, Pellet, or Wood Stove - Install+2 more

Serving Afton, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

We at Dave's Chimney Sweeps, pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Dave Navarro Construction

5.0(

)

Brick or Stone Fireplace (Gas) - InstallBrick or Stone Fireplace (Gas) - RepairBrick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - Install+9 more

Serving Afton, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2010

Free estimates

We are a General contracting company. We perform all services involved in the completion of unfinished space. We do hire sub contractors when needed. We also stand by their work as well. Though we have only been in buisness for a short time. we have a combined 37 years construction experience.

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Fireplaces FAQs, answered by experts

Yes, you should seal and cap an unused chimney to protect it from damage. Sealing the structure helps prevent moisture damage, which can lead to issues like cracks, spalling, efflorescence, and damaged mortar joints. Capping the chimney is also crucial to prevent blockages, damage from invasive critters, and downdrafts, while still allowing for proper air ventilation to manage moisture. For the best results, consult a chimney professional to select the right type of chimney or flue cap for your home. It's also wise to continue with annual chimney inspections to maintain the structure's integrity.

Some of the most common chimney problems include:

Creosote buildup
Chimney blockage
Deteriorating brickwork or stonework
Cracked chimney top
Damaged flashing
Flue liner damage or deterioration
Damaged chimney cap

If you suspect you have a chimney problem, contact a masonry contractor for an inspection.

It’s possible to clean your chimney by accessing it from the opening above your fireplace, but be aware that this method is messier because you will be pulling loose buildup of soot, ash, and creosote into your fireplace instead of up, out, and onto the roof. While the bottom-up method can cause more of a mess, it’s a good option if you’re not comfortable getting on the roof.

A quality pellet stove that receives proper maintenance can last between 15 and 20 years, while most will last at least 10 years. The exact lifespan depends on factors like frequency of use and how well the stove is cared for. Proper maintenance—such as periodically cleaning the vents, vacuuming the ash pan, and refreshing the pellets as needed—can significantly extend its life, making it a worthwhile long-term investment.

Some of the reasons a chimney damper won't close properly include shoddy installation, age-related damage, or heavy snow or ice affecting a top-sealing type. Poor chimney maintenance and a buildup of rust, debris, or creosote can also cause dampers to jam. Annual inspections and chimney sweep costs are worth it to help you avoid a damper disaster.

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