Get matched with top fireplace pros in Kinross, MI

When your fireplace is not in use for longer periods of time, such as over the summer, you can keep smells at bay by spraying either a commercial fireplace deodorizing product or a blend of one part distilled white vinegar to one part water around the walls of the fireplace. 

Or, you can place a container of charcoal inside the fireplace to absorb odors. Just be sure to remove it before it’s time to start using the fireplace again.

Deciding whether to buy a prebuilt fireplace kit or build one from scratch comes down to aesthetics, available space, and budget. Many homeowners like the convenience and lower cost of prebuilt options—around $1,500—versus the involved planning and construction of a larger fireplace. Another bonus: you can usually move prebuilt units. Custom projects are more common when homeowners have access to a larger budget and more area in the yard to place the fireplace.

Neglecting to clean your chimney can lead to serious safety hazards. A primary risk is the buildup of creosote, a highly flammable substance that can ignite and cause a dangerous chimney fire. This buildup can also create blockages in the flue, resulting in poor venting of smoke, soot, and toxic gases like carbon monoxide, which can then enter your home and create dangerously poor indoor air quality. Additionally, creosote is acidic and can damage the chimney's mortar and metal components over time, potentially allowing smoke to leak into your house. To prevent these issues, it is essential to schedule an annual chimney cleaning with a professional.

A properly constructed and maintained chimney crown can last 50 to 75 years. However, its lifespan can be significantly shorter—20 years or less—if it was poorly constructed, improperly installed, or damaged. Factors like using the wrong materials or failing to prepare the brick around the flue can lead to moisture buildup and premature breakdown, potentially resulting in a more costly rebuild.