Are masonry fireboxes better than prefabricated ones?

• <div><p>Handbuilt masonry fireplaces are likely what comes to mind when we think about curling up by the fire at the end of the day. But bricks in the firebox and chimney tend to be heavy, which is not ideal for homes with weak or damaged foundations.</p><p>Prefabricated fireboxes come with a full flue and chimney system, significantly reducing the price and installation time. However, if you need to replace the panels down the line, you are locked into the same model or something very similar.</p></div>

Get matched with top fireplace pros in Chatham, MI

Q: Are bioethanol fireplaces safe?

• <div><p>Bioethanol fireplaces are safe when users follow the instructions and maintain the fireplace. Ethanol is flammable, however, and should be kept away from flammable surfaces, children, and pets.</p></div>

Q: What are the health issues with wood-burning stoves?

• <div><p>Both wood-burning stoves and fireplaces can emit smoke and other combustion gases that are harmful to human health. <a href="https://www.lung.org/blog/wood-burning-stoves-and-heaters">According to the American Lung Association</a>, wood smoke can lead to coughing and wheezing as well as long-term health impacts like increased risks for heart attacks and stroke. </p><p>Newer models meet the modern efficiency standards set in 2020 by the Environmental Protection Agency for cleaner burning, more efficient wood stoves. Regular maintenance can also minimize smoke.</p></div>

Q: Do electric fireplaces use a lot of electricity?

• <div><p>Some types of electric fireplaces use more electricity than others. Models that produce 1,500 watts will have more of an effect on your heating bill than 750-watt models. </p><p>Electric fireplaces use an average of $1.85 of electricity every eight hours. These minimal operational costs aren&rsquo;t likely to make a big difference in your electric bill&mdash;unless you&rsquo;re using it as a primary heating source for your home and it&rsquo;s running most of the time.</p></div>

Q: Do pellet stoves require a lot of electricity to operate?

• <div><p>Pellet stoves do require electricity to power their automated features, such as the pellet feeder, fans, and digital controls. However, their electricity consumption is relatively low compared to other household appliances. During a power outage, pellet stoves equipped with battery backup systems or manual ignition options can still operate, though fans and automatic feed mechanisms may not function. Have a backup heating plan in place for these situations, especially if you live in a region prone to severe weather events.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Fireplace Service pros in Chatham, MI

*The Angi rating for Fireplace Service companies in Chatham, 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 Chatham, 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 March 24, 2023

Reviewed in March 2023
EV staff were punctual and very professional. They explained the process and detailed the cost estimate to include the entire job. There were no surprises or hidden expenses..
Enviro-FOAM
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Reviewed in April 2022
Excellent work at s reasonable price. He arrived on time and did not mind when I continually added jobs to the original plan. He patched drywall and made my kitchen, basement, front porch all look like brand new. I would hire him again.
Red White & Blue Paint Crew
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Reviewed in July 2020
I had Merrifield Exteriors install new basement windows in our home. They were great to work with and we are very pleased. I recommend them highly.
Merrifield Exteriors, LLC
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Reviewed in November 2019
I would not have been able to stay in Florida if he had not made my steps into my trailer so I could get in easily. He made them exactly like I wanted. I can go up and down easily and safely and I would recommend him to anyone.
Acosta Flooring
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Reviewed in November 2018
Very thorough and did a great job! I will use them every time I need gutters cleaned.
101st Professionals
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Reviewed in May 2018
Ramon responded quickly to my initial inquiry about installing new granite countertops in our condo. Within the week, the area was measured and, we visited AZ Tile and chose a slab. Elvis and his crew installed them during the evening hours ,to accomodate our schedule. They were...
Granite Karma, LLC
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Reviewed in August 2017
Very professional and a pleasure to work with. I recommend them.
Foundation Recovery Systems
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Reviewed in August 2017
Employees are courteous and work hard to complete all requested work.
Hummingbird Landscape and Design, LLC
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Reviewed in February 2016
I will never use this company again. They did no work and sent me a bill for $337.05. The invoice did not break down the per hour labor cost so called. Was told lobar was time was 3.5 hours at $84.30 per hour ($295.05) plus I was billed mileage totaling $42...total cost of $337.05. I live in...
DRESSELER MECHANICAL INC
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Reviewed in July 2015
They came on time & started right away & did a wonderful job. Very professional.
Johnson Glass Cleaning
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Find Fireplace pros in Chatham

Shamrock Maintenance Corp.

4.5(

)

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 Chatham, 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 rate100%

81 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Swick Heating Cooling Plumbing & Electrical

4.0(

)

Clean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimneyGas, Pellet, or Wood Stove - InstallClean and Inspect a gas fireplace+6 more

Serving Chatham, MI and surrounding areas

Approved (Corporate)

In business since 1977

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Swick provides home services to Marquette, Negaunee, Ishpeming, Munising and the greater area of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Our services include Heating & Cooling, Electric, Plumbing, Electric Stove & Fireplace and related home services. Quality doesn't cost, it pays!

68 neighbors recently requested a quote

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

Serving Chatham, 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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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 Chatham, 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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Atlas Masonry And Construction

New to Angi

Pre-Fabricated Fireplace Unit (Gas) - InstallPre-Fabricated Fireplace Unit (Non-Gas) - Install

Serving Chatham, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Atlas Masonry And Construction is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

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Magnetic Services LLC

1.0(

)

Clean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney

Serving Chatham, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

At Magnetic Services, we provide dependable garage door services homeowners can trust, built on honesty, integrity, and quality workmanship. Our skilled team is committed to keeping your garage door operating safely and smoothly, whether you need a repair, replacement, installation, or routine maintenance. From broken springs and damaged panels to opener issues and full garage door upgrades, we handle every job with care and expertise. We combine local, personalized service with reliable support, allowing us to respond quickly and provide solutions that fit your homes needs. At Magnetic Services, our goal is to exceed expectations and be your trusted partner for safe, efficient, and long-lasting garage door service. Call today!

4 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Fireplaces questions, answered by experts

Bioethanol fireplaces are safe when users follow the instructions and maintain the fireplace. Ethanol is flammable, however, and should be kept away from flammable surfaces, children, and pets.

Handbuilt masonry fireplaces are likely what comes to mind when we think about curling up by the fire at the end of the day. But bricks in the firebox and chimney tend to be heavy, which is not ideal for homes with weak or damaged foundations.

Prefabricated fireboxes come with a full flue and chimney system, significantly reducing the price and installation time. However, if you need to replace the panels down the line, you are locked into the same model or something very similar.

Both wood-burning stoves and fireplaces can emit smoke and other combustion gases that are harmful to human health. According to the American Lung Association, wood smoke can lead to coughing and wheezing as well as long-term health impacts like increased risks for heart attacks and stroke.

Newer models meet the modern efficiency standards set in 2020 by the Environmental Protection Agency for cleaner burning, more efficient wood stoves. Regular maintenance can also minimize smoke.

Some types of electric fireplaces use more electricity than others. Models that produce 1,500 watts will have more of an effect on your heating bill than 750-watt models.

Electric fireplaces use an average of $1.85 of electricity every eight hours. These minimal operational costs aren’t likely to make a big difference in your electric bill—unless you’re using it as a primary heating source for your home and it’s running most of the time.

Pellet stoves do require electricity to power their automated features, such as the pellet feeder, fans, and digital controls. However, their electricity consumption is relatively low compared to other household appliances. During a power outage, pellet stoves equipped with battery backup systems or manual ignition options can still operate, though fans and automatic feed mechanisms may not function. Have a backup heating plan in place for these situations, especially if you live in a region prone to severe weather events.

The Chatham, MI homeowners’ guide to fireplace services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Allie Ogletree
•
Jul 31, 2026Jul 31, 2026
How Much Does a Bioethanol Fireplace Cost? [2026 Data]
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Sep 14, 2026Sep 14, 2026
How Much Does Fireplace Installation Cost? [2026 Data]
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Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does Fireplace Repair Cost? [2026 Data]
Use our guide to estimate your fireplace repair costs, based on the type of fireplace you have—and what part is broken.
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Jul 8, 2026Jul 8, 2026
11 Parts of a Fireplace You Should Know
There are many working parts of a fireplace, and a basic understanding of their functions can help homeowners properly maintain all of them over time.
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Jul 20, 2026Jul 20, 2026
50+ Stylish Fireplace Ideas to Boost Your Home’s Value
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•
Aug 4, 2026Aug 4, 2026
12 Cozy Bedroom Fireplace Ideas to Consider
With a few easy decorating tips, you can make your bedroom fireplace the stylish focal point of your room. Up the cozy aesthetic of your bedroom with these 12 ideas.