How do I know if my chimney is safe?

• <div><p>There are a few things you can look out for to ensure your chimney is safe to use. Check for the following issues:</p><ul><li><p>Cracks or missing pieces in the masonry of the chimney</p></li><li><p>Creosote buildup in the chimney, which is a black, tar-like substance</p></li><li><p>Cracks, stains, or scorch marks in the firebox</p></li><li><p>Water stains in or around the fireplace</p></li><li><p>A broken or stuck damper</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

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Q: How do I stop my fireplace from smoking?

• <div><p>How you stop your fireplace from smoking depends on the cause. Sometimes it&rsquo;s as simple as opening the damper. Other times, you need to battle air pressure. The best course of action is to ensure proper ventilation, whether that means opening a door or a window; avoid building a large fire, which produces more smoke; and use seasoned hardwoods, which produce less smoke than other types of wood. If the issue persists, call a pro ASAP.</p></div>

Q: How much work does it take to learn how to remove a fireplace?

• <div><p>Removing and demolishing a fireplace is extremely labor intensive work that also takes a long time. You need to use brute strength to break apart the brick and masonry, and carry the debris to a dumpster. Depending on the size of the structure, you may need multiple days to fully remove it. After removal, you need to determine how you will repair the wall that held the fireplace, which can also be quite time consuming and challenging.</p></div>

Q: Do you open a flue with a gas fireplace?

• <div><p>Yes, if your gas fireplace has a flue, you typically need to open it when using the fireplace. Although gas fireplaces don&rsquo;t produce the type of smoke and soot that wood-burning ones do, they still release combustion gasses like carbon monoxide. Opening the flue ensures these gasses safely exit your home through the chimney. Not all <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/does-a-gas-fireplace-need-a-chimney.htm">gas fireplaces need a chimney</a>, however. Always check the manufacturer&rsquo;s instructions for your specific gas fireplace model, as some newer models may have different ventilation requirements. </p></div>

Q: Can I clean my own fireplace and chimney?

• <div><p>While it is possible to clean your own chimney and fireplace with the appropriate brushes and safety gear, hiring a professional is often recommended. A professional ensures thorough creosote removal and compliance with safety standards. They can also safely access high or hidden areas that may be difficult for a homeowner to reach, providing comprehensive assurance that the job is completed correctly and safely.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Fireplace Service pros in Alanson, MI

*The Angi rating for Fireplace Service companies in Alanson, MI 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 Alanson, MI 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 February 27, 2026

Reviewed in February 2026
Hired to build out a spa area - deck, hot tub & sauna. Everything from design aesthetics to construction was done better than I could have imagined. Our next door neighbors who have a view of the spa area were also happy with the outcome. Highly recommend and have already hired for another...
KIDRON CONSTRUCTION SERVICES, LLC
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Reviewed in February 2026
They came out when it was 5 degrees outside and did an amazing job! very professional, friendly, and punctual would recommend to anyone!
Tree Timbers Services
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Reviewed in January 2026
I was impressed with Chuck from Shamrock Chimney. He was realistic in his discussion and went thru various options from converting to a gas fireplace to wood inserts. He discussed the issues with the existing field stone face and converting to a two way fireplace. He certainly made me...
Shamrock Maintenance Corp.
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Reviewed in November 2025
Loved loved loved the outcome. My house was intact and so was my garden. The have different option depending the job. A hands on crew or machinery given how dangerous Trees can be haha. They are also hilarious and amazing people!
JPS TREE SERVICES LLC
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Reviewed in February 2024
I needed help setting up furniture last minute and 5-mile creek construction was up to the job. It was nice to have everything done so quickly and easily. I would work with them again.
5-Mile Creek Construction
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Reviewed in December 2022
Great job on our entire home painting.
Luxury Interiors and Exteriors
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Reviewed in August 2022
They did a fantastic job on rebuilding our deck. It turned out beautiful. It was very professional done. Would recommend them to anyone.
Renewit Group
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Reviewed in August 2022
The house and windows were extremely dirty. It was a big job and it took multiple days. The difference was amazing ! Great job !
Northern Window Washing
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Reviewed in August 2022
Expertly done in a timely passion and it's beautiful.
Fortress Custom Solutions-
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Reviewed in July 2021
Clean, hardworking young people. Hustle. Prepared to revisit if cleanup (moss on steep roof) not 100%
Curb Appeal Exterior Cleaning and Services
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Find Fireplace pros in Alanson

Shamrock Maintenance Corp.

4.5(

)

Brick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - RepairClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimneyBrick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - Install+3 more

Serving Alanson, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 1985

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Chuck arrived with a helper and explained everything to us. He cleaned the chimney and left us with some estimates for potential work. He was knowledgeable and pleasant. I would use him again."

+31

Response time1 day

Response rate95%

224 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Alexis Huston

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 Alanson, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Small jobs welcome

I’ve been in the cleaning business for the last 15 years. I am 34 with two young children and really enjoy cleaning and organizing, making space for homeowners to feel more clear minded and less stressed.

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

Serving Alanson, MI 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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All American Chimneys

New to Angi

Clean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimneyPre-Fabricated Fireplace Unit (Non-Gas) - InstallPre-Fabricated Fireplace Unit (Non-Gas) - Repair

Serving Alanson, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2024

Small jobs welcome

Offers commercial services

All American Chimneys is dedicated to providing our customers with the best quality and craftsmanship. We are here to build relationships with our customers and communities and to provide our employees with a great place to work. We look forward to working with you!

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Heating Solutions Inc

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 Alanson, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

At our company, we take immense pride in our wealth of experience, expertise, and the exceptional customer service we offer to meet our clients' needs. Our mission is to consistently deliver outstanding design work and drawings, from project initiation to completion. We place great emphasis on understanding and exceeding our customers' needs and expectations, ensuring that every interaction is conducted with the utmost professionalism. Our reputation is founded on top-notch service and quality, irrespective of the size of the project. Get in touch with us today!

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Northern Husky Pressure Washing

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 Alanson, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Welcome to Northern Husky Pressure Washing. We are the premier professional home improvement company in Michigan. We offer the highest quality and most attentive customer service. We are known to pay exquisite attention to detail while making customer satisfaction our top priority. Whether your project involves minor cleaning or a complete property cleaning, we are glad to be your number one choice. Please call us today to schedule your appointment!

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Fireplaces questions, answered by experts

How you stop your fireplace from smoking depends on the cause. Sometimes it’s as simple as opening the damper. Other times, you need to battle air pressure. The best course of action is to ensure proper ventilation, whether that means opening a door or a window; avoid building a large fire, which produces more smoke; and use seasoned hardwoods, which produce less smoke than other types of wood. If the issue persists, call a pro ASAP.

Removing and demolishing a fireplace is extremely labor intensive work that also takes a long time. You need to use brute strength to break apart the brick and masonry, and carry the debris to a dumpster. Depending on the size of the structure, you may need multiple days to fully remove it. After removal, you need to determine how you will repair the wall that held the fireplace, which can also be quite time consuming and challenging.

There are a few things you can look out for to ensure your chimney is safe to use. Check for the following issues:

Cracks or missing pieces in the masonry of the chimney
Creosote buildup in the chimney, which is a black, tar-like substance
Cracks, stains, or scorch marks in the firebox
Water stains in or around the fireplace
A broken or stuck damper

Yes, if your gas fireplace has a flue, you typically need to open it when using the fireplace. Although gas fireplaces don’t produce the type of smoke and soot that wood-burning ones do, they still release combustion gasses like carbon monoxide. Opening the flue ensures these gasses safely exit your home through the chimney. Not all gas fireplaces need a chimney, however. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific gas fireplace model, as some newer models may have different ventilation requirements.

While it is possible to clean your own chimney and fireplace with the appropriate brushes and safety gear, hiring a professional is often recommended. A professional ensures thorough creosote removal and compliance with safety standards. They can also safely access high or hidden areas that may be difficult for a homeowner to reach, providing comprehensive assurance that the job is completed correctly and safely.

The Alanson, MI homeowners’ guide to fireplace services

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