Get matched with top fireplace pros in Seligman, MO

If you would rather use vinegar to clean the stone fireplace instead of dish soap, this mixture should work fine. Vinegar is slightly acidic, however, so it may etch some kinds of stone without quite a bit of diluting. For a stone fireplace, dilute it to about one cup of vinegar for every gallon of hot water. It’s a smart idea to test the diluted mixture in an inconspicuous area of the fireplace and watch for etching. You can use vinegar to clean quite a few different items around your home, and it’s especially good at removing stains.

Shiplap can be safe for a gas fireplace, but you should consult with a fireplace installation pro before proceeding. You need to make sure your project meets building and safety codes since shiplap is made from flammable wood. You may need to install another non-combustible material, like stone or brick, around the fireplace for a certain amount of space before you can add shiplap.

A chimney cap costs about $300 on average to install, with prices ranging from $75 to $1,000. The final cost depends on several factors, including the professional you hire, the accessibility of your chimney, the cap's material and size, whether any repairs are needed, and if it requires custom fabrication. Chimney caps are usually made from galvanized steel, stainless steel, or copper. Copper caps are the most expensive, followed by stainless steel and then galvanized steel. Excluding labor, average material costs are around $100 for galvanized steel, $250 for stainless steel, and $600 for copper. You may also face additional costs, such as hiring a chimney sweep to clean the chimney before the cap is installed.

Professional chimney cleaning, also known as chimney sweeping, typically costs between $130 and $400, with a national average of about $260. The final price depends on several factors, including the size and accessibility of your chimney, the number of chimneys being cleaned, and the type of chimney you have. A standard cleaning involves a chimney sweep scraping creosote, dirt, and other debris from the entire flue. Many professionals also include an inspection with this service, but the cost of any necessary repairs is typically extra. Additional services, such as installing a fireplace damper, will also increase the total cost. It is recommended to schedule a cleaning and inspection annually, preferably before you begin using your fireplace for the season, and to get price quotes from at least three companies to find the best deal.