"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."
"Gary's Chimney Service was great! I was selling a condo up north in the White Mountains and during the general home inspection the inspector said that one of the refractory panels needed to be replaced so of course the buyer requested replacement. I contacted Gary's Chimney through Homeadvisor and they happened to be in the area and inspected my repair request within hours of my call! In addition - their integrity became clearly evident because I requested they make the repair while they were there. But instead of doing a needless repair and charging me $250 - $300 just because I asked - they sent me a detailed email explaining that no replacement was needed and that the refractory panels were high quality and that the crack noted was hairline and not a safety issue. I presented the expert diagnosis to the buyer and they withdrew their request. It's nice to know there are still companies around that have integrity because they easily could have done a needless repair to make a few bucks and I never would have known the difference. I have 3 other condos up north and you can be sure I will be calling Gary's when I have fireplace. woodstove, or chimney work needs!"
"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."
"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."
"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."
"These guys are top notch. I reached out to them last minute, they came quick, and work was done FAST. We’ve been having issues with our gas fireplace and Eric and his team got the job done. I highly recommend and will use them again in the future."
"They came and unblocked one chimney and replaced the cap that others looked at and just left. Installed a new cap on the chimney for my fireplace that I wasn't able to use for the last 4 years. Anthony is very knowledgeable and is awesome at his job!"
"Expert Builders Construction did an outstanding job on my roof and replaced two skylights at a very fair price. Their work was clean, efficient, and high quality. I’m extremely satisfied and highly recommend them for any project."
"Derek from Boldcoast Exteriors worked patiently with my wife to pick the perfect color roof. Everyone loves it. He was always available to answer questions. Once decided, the work was done quickly and meticulously. We are very happy with this company and plan to use them for future projects."
I’m a hardworking wife and mother of 5. I’ve worked as a store manager at Amato’s for 9 years, people person and friendly and excellentat customer service. Before Amato’s I worked at a hotel for cleaning services and now I want to be my own boss.
The downsides of brick staining include a complex process and lengthy application. Also, if your brick is damaged or already contains a non-porous sealant or paint, staining won’t be an option as it won’t be able to absorb properly.
When comparing which is better between German schmear, whitewash, and limewash, your answer will depend on the look you're going for. German schmear is the best option for those who want a heavily distressed look for their brick without full coverage. Whitewash is best if you like the current brick color and want it to show through. Limewash paint is best for full coverage.
Yes, you can limewash surfaces other than brick. Plaster, stone, stucco, and concrete can all also be limewashed. Any porous surface that will absorb the wash is a good candidate for limewash, although it won’t help much with waterproofing. If you choose to limewash over paint, you’ll need to prep before applying it to avoid a powdery, chalky finish. Shiny surfaces like metal or glass can’t absorb limewash, so it’s not suited for these.
The main difference between limewash and German schmear is their core ingredient. Limewash is made from crushed limestone, while German schmear uses a mortar base. This affects their application, appearance, and longevity. German schmear involves applying a thin layer of mortar to brick or stone and then partially wiping it off. In contrast, limewash is a type of paint. German schmear is essentially permanent, lasting one to two decades with minimal maintenance, whereas limewash has a shorter lifespan of five to seven years. Cost-wise, German schmear is about $1 to $4 per square foot and is typically only available in white or gray.
Cracked panels, worn-out seals, faulty dampers, and firebrick damage often need professional attention.
The Cornish, ME homeowners’ guide to fireplace cleaning services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
With a gas fireplace, it’s important to stay up-to-date on your inspections. Learn more about how much gas fireplace inspections cost before you book one.
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.
Gas fireplace maintenance is crucial for your safety and the operation of your unit. Our guide offers 11 tips for the proper maintenance of your gas fireplace.
Fireplaces are cozy home additions, but they produce a lot of stain-causing, hazardous black soot. This guide teaches you how to clean soot from fireplaces.
Are sooty deposits putting a damper on you enjoying your fireplace? Find out how to clean a glass fireplace and its doors with a few household ingredients.