Get matched with top fireplace pros in Lapeer, MI

A chimney cap typically lasts between three and 25 years. This wide range is due to several variables, including the material it's made from, the local climate, and how frequently you use your fireplace. Living in an area with severe weather can shorten its lifespan. Regular inspections, maintenance, and minor repairs as needed can help your chimney cap last as long as possible.

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.

If you're looking for supplemental heating for your home, an electric fireplace can be worth purchasing. A prefab, freestanding model will only set you back a few hundred dollars and can help to heat up drafty or cooler rooms. Electric fireplaces don't have the maintenance requirements of gas or wood-burning fireplaces and don't require you to buy wood or other fuel.

There is no universal remote that will work for all gas fireplaces or electric models. That’s because different remotes are designed to work with specific fireplace wiring, so some remotes may only work for on/off functions, while others work with fireplaces that have extra settings, such as timers or programmable thermostats. If you need a new remote, ensure the replacement is compatible with your specific fireplace model.