Get matched with top fireplace pros in Kinross, MI

No. Removing the cause of concern will only lead to deeper concern. You cannot use any fire-powered appliance like a fireplace or furnace without an escape route for the smoke and fumes. If you remove the flue intending to repair or replace it, you should only use the fireplace, wood stove, or furnace once the flue is in working order. If you cannot replace the flue you have removed, call a chimney repair professional immediately.

The best style of chimney cap for a brick chimney is one that fits tightly around the brick top of the chimney. The cap should have a screen to fully enclose it to keep animals out. The best materials include stainless steel, copper, or aluminum that fit tightly or are custom fabricated for a perfect fit on your chimney.

When your wood stove catalyst goes bad, it can cause your stove to produce less heat or run slower than normal. You might also notice thick black smoke coming out of your chimney. If you notice any of these signs, contact a professional who installs wood-burning stoves and repairs them for an inspection and fix.

Yes, removing a chimney is a difficult and major undertaking. Chimneys often provide structural support to a home, so if it's a load-bearing structure, you'll need to take extra precautions to maintain your home's integrity. A project of this complexity typically requires a structural engineer, a masonry contractor, and a demolition crew. The removal process may involve taking the chimney out brick by brick from inside the walls. The cost for chimney removal can range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the job's complexity. Due to the difficulty and cost, some homeowners opt to remove the fireplace and seal the chimney at the top and bottom, sometimes also removing the visible exterior portion at the roofline.