How do I know if my chimney is safe to use?

• <div><p>One of the best ways to know your chimney is good to go on any given night is to simply look up into your flue with a flashlight. If you see a thick buildup of creosote—a shiny, dark substance that looks like tar—it’s best to have your fireplace professionally cleaned before you go ahead with the burn. Additionally, having your fireplace professionally inspected once per year can also help increase your peace of mind and keep your family and your home safe.</p></div>

Get matched with top fireplace pros in Pickford, MI

Q: Can you use Windex to clean gas fireplace glass?

• <div><p>You should not use Windex or any other ammonia-based glass cleaners when cleaning the glass doors or glass front panel of a gas fireplace. Instead, remove the glass and lay it on a soft surface, like a drop cloth or towel. Then clean it using a specialty fireplace glass cleaner purchased at a hardware store or online. If the glass is relatively clean, you can get away with a vinegar and water solution, but tougher stains will require a specialized cleaner. </p></div>

Q: What type of fireplace insert is most efficient?

• <div><p>Gas fireplace inserts are considered the most efficient because they convert more of the fuel source&mdash;gas&mdash;into heat. They offer excellent heat output per the amount of fuel they use. While electric fireplace inserts are praised for their efficiency, keep in mind that they don&rsquo;t offer as strong a heat output but may still be a great choice if you want an efficient option. </p></div>

Q: Can I clean my own chimney?

• <div><p>Cleaning your own chimney can be risky, especially if it hasn't been done in a long time and you lack the proper tools, knowledge, and safety equipment. The process involves getting onto the roof and handling soot, which poses safety issues. Remember, inhaling chimney soot is a significant health risk. Wearing the proper respiratory equipment is required.</p></div>

Q: Can I use any type of wood in my outdoor furnace?

• <div><p>While you have some flexibility in the types of wood you can use in your outdoor furnace, it's important to make wise choices for optimal performance and efficiency. Hardwoods, such as oak, maple, and cherry, are generally recommended for their higher energy content and cleaner burn. These hardwoods produce more heat per volume and tend to produce fewer creosote deposits, which can accumulate and cause a chimney fire, according to the <a href="https://www.epa.gov/burnwise/frequent-questions-about-wood-burning-appliances#pollution">U.S. Environmental Protection Agency</a>.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Fireplace Service pros in Pickford, MI

*The Angi rating for Fireplace Service companies in Pickford, 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 Pickford, 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 July 03, 2025

Reviewed in July 2025
Has performed multiple jobs for me in the past few years. Everything from installing an exterior door, to repairing drywall. Meticulous attention to detail. Quality work every time.
Hl-Contracting, LLC
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Reviewed in June 2025
We contracted Aspen Creek Construction to remove an existing laminate floor over two layers of carpet, level three floors and install ceramic tile in our entry, seating area, kitchen, and dining room. It was a fairly complex operation and a whole lot of tiling. Troy completed the work with...
Aspen Creek Construction
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Reviewed in May 2024
They were fast efficient and kept is informed on the project. They were very helpful and informative. I highly recommend them.
Great Lakes Environmental, LLC
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Reviewed in June 2023
FANTASTIC!! Prompt, fast and a hard worker. Knowledgeable. Very friendly. Vince went through every detail on how to operate my new system. Highly recommend this young man.
Safe Haven Home Security
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Reviewed in January 2023
Job was done on time. Very professional. They were on timecto start job.
E & C Contracting, LLC
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Reviewed in November 2022
they were very professional, they worked with me and my schedule, over all i think they did a great job. and i will hire them again in the future.
Two Rivers Tree Service
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Reviewed in February 2022
I want to thank you so much for working with me on my bedroom closet. You are so organized, efficient and focused. Thank you for listening to me and for going above and beyond transforming my space.
Agent Annamarie
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Reviewed in February 2021
I would hire them again. I can't say enough about doing a great job, showing up when they said they would be here and finishing the job quickly. When they left they even picked up after themselves. On top of everything else, the price was great. They went above and beyond and my furnace works...
Olson Heating and Cooling, LLC
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Reviewed in December 2020
Mike did a great job! Transformed my pool deck and Chicago brick to looking like new!
Pressure Precision Cleaning Services
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Reviewed in November 2020
I hired Standard Insulating Company to remove the old cellulose and rockwool attic insulation, air seal the attic, and install new blown-in fiberglass insulation. They arrived on time and completed the work in 4 hours, which is what they had estimated. They put plastic down on the floor to...
Standard Insulating Company, Inc.
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Find Fireplace pros in Pickford

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 Pickford, 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

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

Serving Pickford, 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 Pickford, 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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Magnetic Services LLC

1.0(

)

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

Serving Pickford, 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

You should not use Windex or any other ammonia-based glass cleaners when cleaning the glass doors or glass front panel of a gas fireplace. Instead, remove the glass and lay it on a soft surface, like a drop cloth or towel. Then clean it using a specialty fireplace glass cleaner purchased at a hardware store or online. If the glass is relatively clean, you can get away with a vinegar and water solution, but tougher stains will require a specialized cleaner.

One of the best ways to know your chimney is good to go on any given night is to simply look up into your flue with a flashlight. If you see a thick buildup of creosote—a shiny, dark substance that looks like tar—it’s best to have your fireplace professionally cleaned before you go ahead with the burn. Additionally, having your fireplace professionally inspected once per year can also help increase your peace of mind and keep your family and your home safe.

Gas fireplace inserts are considered the most efficient because they convert more of the fuel source—gas—into heat. They offer excellent heat output per the amount of fuel they use. While electric fireplace inserts are praised for their efficiency, keep in mind that they don’t offer as strong a heat output but may still be a great choice if you want an efficient option.

Cleaning your own chimney can be risky, especially if it hasn't been done in a long time and you lack the proper tools, knowledge, and safety equipment. The process involves getting onto the roof and handling soot, which poses safety issues. Remember, inhaling chimney soot is a significant health risk. Wearing the proper respiratory equipment is required.

While you have some flexibility in the types of wood you can use in your outdoor furnace, it's important to make wise choices for optimal performance and efficiency. Hardwoods, such as oak, maple, and cherry, are generally recommended for their higher energy content and cleaner burn. These hardwoods produce more heat per volume and tend to produce fewer creosote deposits, which can accumulate and cause a chimney fire, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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