Get matched with top fireplace pros in Calais, ME

Q: Should you block both the top and bottom of your chimney?

• <div><p>You should never block both the top and bottom of your chimney. Proper airflow is essential because the temperature inside the chimney will still fluctuate as your house warms and cools. Moisture can build up without ventilation, leading to dampness in your walls over time. Blocking the top prevents debris and animals from entering, but the chimney still needs air circulation to avoid condensation issues. Allowing the chimney to breathe maintains the health of your home and prevents long-term damage.</p></div>

Q: How often does a chimney need to be repointed and how long does the new pointing last?

• <div><p>When done correctly by a professional, chimney repointing can last for several decades&mdash;often 30 years or more. This maintenance is crucial for keeping the chimney structure sound, improving its waterproofing, and preventing more significant and costly repairs, such as a partial or complete rebuild. It is recommended to schedule an annual inspection to catch any potential issues early. If you notice the chimney's brickwork looks worn out or crumbly, you should hire a professional to inspect it.</p></div>

Q: How can you keep a house warm with single-pane windows?

• <div><p>Single-pane windows might let in the cold, but if you&rsquo;re not ready for a long-term solution or window replacement, there are quick fixes to keep your space warmer. Start by <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-winterize-your-windows-and-doors.htm">sealing gaps with weatherstripping</a> or caulking around the frame to block drafts. For an extra barrier, apply window insulation film to the glass, trapping an air pocket between the film and the window. Thick curtains or thermal drapes can also help keep the chill at bay. And if you&rsquo;re in a pinch and looking to get creative, bubble wrap can provide a surprisingly effective layer of insulation&mdash;just spritz the window with water and press it on, bubble side in. </p></div>

Q: What is the life expectancy of a chimney?

• <div><p>A well-constructed and regularly maintained brick chimney can last 50 to 100 years, potentially spanning multiple generations of homeowners. The exact lifespan depends on the quality of construction, materials, local environment, and maintenance. In contrast, a metal chimney typically lasts 15 to 20 years. While the main structure is durable, individual components have shorter lifespans and require more frequent replacement. For example, mortar may need repointing every 20 to 30 years, chimney crowns last 50 to 75 years, and liners can last anywhere from 15 to 50 years depending on the material (e.g., stainless steel vs. cast-in-place).</p></div>

Q: How long do wood stove fans last?

• <div><p>The average life span of a thermoelectric fan operating seasonally is two to three years. However, the life span of a wood stove fan depends on its quality, usage, and maintenance. Regular cleaning of the blades and ensuring the fan operates within its recommended temperature range can help prolong its life span. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Fireplace Service pros in Calais, ME

*The Angi rating for Fireplace Service companies in Calais, ME 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 Calais, ME 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 January 15, 2026

Reviewed in January 2026
Eric’s crew has done a number of big tree jobs for us. Has nothing to do with stump removal but there’s no review category option for taking down dead trees and/or removing trees knocked down by storms. They’ve done some complex work requiring coordination with utilities as lines had to be...
3 C's Professional Tree Removal
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Reviewed in July 2023
Reliable and good! Happy with results.
Demolet Decorating
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Reviewed in July 2023
Great! Did my roof in 1 day. 3 man team. Efficient.
C P Hanscom and Son's LLC
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Reviewed in May 2023
They did a fantastic job, the tree was down and everything cleaned up in a professional manner. I highly recommend and I would hire them again in a heartbeat.
Sons Of Thunder Tree Service
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Reviewed in March 2023
Mr. Seely recognized that I have a lot of projects that need to be addressed .He.took.the time to reach out to other pros in the area that would.be appropriate for.each project. Mr. Seeley was quick to respond to the ice dam over moms wheel chair ramp. Very professional young man.
Fitzsee Property Management
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Reviewed in May 2022
I met Daniely at my house and talked about the clean. Everything we went over was done with a white glove touch. I hired her for the season with 10 more cleans from Father’s Day to mid September. I feel confident that I hired the right company! Chris
Daniely Cleaning Service
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Reviewed in December 2021
2 Spry young men hustled up and down 3 flights of stairs in somerville for 3 hours. Yeah I got my moneys worth!
Otto's Moving and Storage, LLC
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Reviewed in November 2020
Nate and Dave are a great father and son team. They kept me informed of costs and installation date and came all the way to down east Maine for no extra charge. They took care of all the paperwork, rebates, and were at the work site right on time.The installation is very professionally done and...
Dave's Mechanical Maintenance, Inc.
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Find Fireplace pros in Calais

McBriens Fire & Flue

5.0(

)

Clean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimneyBrick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - RepairBrick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - Install+2 more

Serving Calais, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I had birds chirping in my fireplace. Mcbriens safely removed the birds and nest and installed an animal guard to prevent future critters! Thank you guys so much."

+19

Response time9 hrs

Response rate100%

34 neighbors recently requested a quote

Clean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimneyGas, Pellet, or Wood Stove - InstallBrick or Stone Fireplace (Gas) - Install+6 more

Serving Calais, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"We hired Josh to completely transform our fireplace area and couldn’t be happier with the results. From the initial inspection to the final install, everything was explained clearly and handled professionally. The stonework and stove setup came out absolutely beautiful and completely changed the feel of the room. Josh was clean, punctual, and took real pride in his work. The before and after difference is night and day. I’d highly recommend him to anyone looking for quality chimney or stove work done right."

11 neighbors recently requested a quote

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HANDY ANDY SPECIALTY SERVICES LLC

4.9(

)

Clean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimneyBrick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - RepairBrick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - Install+1 more

Serving Calais, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"I had them do a cleaning and inspection of my chimney and they found damages to the brickwork and the top of the chimney. They installed a new cap and their cost was so reasonable. All their work is guaranteed as well, which is reassuring. They were clean, efficient and courteous. I would highly recommend Handy Andy and in fact they are doing an estimate for my neighbor to whom I recommended them to."

11 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Shamrock Maintenance Corp.

3.4(

721

)

Clean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimneyBrick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - RepairClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stove+3 more

Serving Calais, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"After 3 chimney sweep inspections, Alan was the only one to find a solution to my fireplace smoking VERY knowledgeable."

+90

Response time5 hrs

Response rate97%

20 neighbors recently requested a quote

Brick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - RepairClean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stove+7 more

Serving Calais, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"The workers and office staff were easy to talk to, well informed, courteous , and efficient. They performed a thorough inspection. Recommended and installed a stainless liner and cap for the furnace flue and a new damper on the fireplace flue. Their price was better than previous quotes and even set up a partial payment plan. I am very pleased with the work they did."

Response time1 hour

Response rate99%

Recommended by85%of homeowners

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

Serving Calais, ME and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"very well the main office was very helpful when I needed them"

Recommended by93%of homeowners

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New England Home Renovations LLC

4.0(

311

)

Brick or Stone Fireplace (Gas) - InstallBrick or Stone Fireplace (Gas) - RepairBrick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - Install+12 more

Serving Calais, ME and surrounding areas

In business since 1983

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"NE was responsive to what we needed and was helpful with their recommendations.Along with the roof we need some plumbing remodeling delt with,and they were more than capable in doing that. All the projects were completed in 2 weeks,and looks great.
"

+37

Recommended by89%of homeowners

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Northeast Chimney Services

5.0(

)

Brick or Stone Fireplace - RepairClean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stove+1 more

Serving Calais, ME and surrounding areas

In business since 1989

Free estimates

"I called Northeast Chimney Services in the afternoon. Chris called that day and made an appointment for the next day. He came in, diagnoised the issue and fixed the problem right. Easy from start to finish!"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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1ST ADVANCED PAINTING

New to Angi

Brick or Stone Fireplace - Repair

Serving Calais, ME and surrounding areas

In business since 1990

Free estimates

1st Advanced Painting Solutions has extensive experience and knowledge of interior & exterior painting. Our commitment is to delivery of quality work, responsiveness, and competitive pricing.

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W & W Remodeling

New to Angi

Brick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - RepairBrick or Stone Fireplace - Repair

Serving Calais, ME and surrounding areas

In business since 2004

Established in 2004, W & W Remodeling prides itself on an outstanding record of quality service and attention to detail. Our philosophy is to treat your home as we would our own, and this is complimented by our years of experience in the industry. You can expect the highest level of service and quality when you choose W & W Remodeling any project.

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Fireplaces questions, answered by experts

You should never block both the top and bottom of your chimney. Proper airflow is essential because the temperature inside the chimney will still fluctuate as your house warms and cools. Moisture can build up without ventilation, leading to dampness in your walls over time. Blocking the top prevents debris and animals from entering, but the chimney still needs air circulation to avoid condensation issues. Allowing the chimney to breathe maintains the health of your home and prevents long-term damage.

When done correctly by a professional, chimney repointing can last for several decades—often 30 years or more. This maintenance is crucial for keeping the chimney structure sound, improving its waterproofing, and preventing more significant and costly repairs, such as a partial or complete rebuild. It is recommended to schedule an annual inspection to catch any potential issues early. If you notice the chimney's brickwork looks worn out or crumbly, you should hire a professional to inspect it.

Single-pane windows might let in the cold, but if you’re not ready for a long-term solution or window replacement, there are quick fixes to keep your space warmer. Start by sealing gaps with weatherstripping or caulking around the frame to block drafts. For an extra barrier, apply window insulation film to the glass, trapping an air pocket between the film and the window. Thick curtains or thermal drapes can also help keep the chill at bay. And if you’re in a pinch and looking to get creative, bubble wrap can provide a surprisingly effective layer of insulation—just spritz the window with water and press it on, bubble side in.

A well-constructed and regularly maintained brick chimney can last 50 to 100 years, potentially spanning multiple generations of homeowners. The exact lifespan depends on the quality of construction, materials, local environment, and maintenance. In contrast, a metal chimney typically lasts 15 to 20 years. While the main structure is durable, individual components have shorter lifespans and require more frequent replacement. For example, mortar may need repointing every 20 to 30 years, chimney crowns last 50 to 75 years, and liners can last anywhere from 15 to 50 years depending on the material (e.g., stainless steel vs. cast-in-place).

The average life span of a thermoelectric fan operating seasonally is two to three years. However, the life span of a wood stove fan depends on its quality, usage, and maintenance. Regular cleaning of the blades and ensuring the fan operates within its recommended temperature range can help prolong its life span.

The Calais, ME homeowners’ guide to fireplace services

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