Get matched with top fireplace pros in Presque Isle, ME

Yes, it can be worth installing a gas fireplace, depending on your home heating needs. The cost to install a gas fireplace can be much lower than the cost to install a comparable wood-burning fireplace. The convenience of starting a fire with the flip of a switch and turning it off just as quickly makes a gas fireplace a big time saver over starting and maintaining a wood-fueled fire. A gas fireplace also does not require ash cleanup or frequent chimney cleaning to remove creosote and other buildup that can lead to chimney fires. Gas fireplaces burn and heat much more cleanly than wood fireplaces.

Certain fireplace repairs will require that your contractor is licensed, including anything that involves moving, installing, or repairing gas lines. In that case, your professional will need to be a certified plumber. You can use Angi’s licensing lookup tool to confirm that the company you’re hiring is properly licensed. Most states don’t have specific license requirements for other fireplace repairs, but most demand at least a general contractor’s license. It’s also a good idea to look for companies certified by the National Fireplace Institute, as those pros tend to be more qualified to carry out the repair.

Fireplaces can last between 10 and 30 years on average. This life span heavily depends on the quality of the construction, the type of fireplace (wood-burning versus gas versus electric), the materials used, and how well you’ve maintained it. Most homeowners get around 20 years out of their fireplace before major issues start popping up.

The best way to clean fireplace bricks is to use a mild solution on saturated bricks. An equal mixture of water and vinegar or a drop of dish soap in a bowl of water can help remove grime from fireplace bricks. Make sure you wet the bricks thoroughly before applying the cleaner and rinse them after you’re done to prevent damage.