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How to light a gas fireplace depends on the particular model of gas fireplace you have in your home. In most cases, you can light gas fireplaces using a control panel, remote, key, or switch. You should reference your fireplace’s manual to see how your unit operates.

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 best location for a wood stove depends on your home's layout and venting options. For optimal heat distribution, a central location on the ground floor, such as the living room, is often recommended. If you have an existing, functional chimney, installing the stove there can simplify the venting process. Alternatively, placing the stove near an outside wall can make it easier to route a new chimney through the roof. For safety, ensure no combustible materials are near the stove. Building codes typically require 20 to 36 inches of clearance between the stove and any side walls.

You can close up a chimney instead of demolishing it. Homeowners often go this route because the cost of removing a chimney, especially a structurally important chimney, can be expensive.

Properly closing up a chimney involves closing and sealing the damper, installing a chimney cap damper, and sealing the fireplace opening with a door or bricks. The cost to seal and cap a chimney is around $500 to $650—significantly less than the average chimney removal cost.