"Shamrock Maintenance Corp. did an excellent job cleaning and inspecting our wood burning stove. The technician arrived on time, was professional, and explained everything clearly before starting the work. They made sure the area was protected and left everything clean once the job was completed. I appreciated how thorough the inspection was and the time they took to answer our questions. It’s hard to find reliable service these days, but they definitely delivered. Highly recommend."
"The workers and office staff were easy to talk to, well informed, courteous , and efficient. They performed a thorough inspection. Recommended and installed a stainless liner and cap for the furnace flue and a new damper on the fireplace flue. Their price was better than previous quotes and even set up a partial payment plan. I am very pleased with the work they did."
I've a skilled and personable house cleaner who has been cleaning houses in the Buffalo area for about 6 years. I take pride in offering clients peace of mind by understanding their needs and being flexible with scheduling. Recently I've gained experience in construction and handyman work to add to my repertoire. \nI clean thoroughly and fast, leaving your house feeling brand new in a matter of hours!
"Very pleased with the job that was done. Only critique would be a slight gap between the backsplash and wall, which had I noticed sooner I am sure they could have corrected with caulk or pushing backsplash closer. It is hardly noticeable. Everybody that I dealt with was extremely friendly. I am very happy with the counter top."
"Astar has done three jobs for us, a top of the line regency gas fireplace, an indirect hot water heater and now, the most impressive - a Kohler natural gas whole house automatic generator. All of these are top of the line equipment. The owner, Ed always answers his phone if you ever have a question. Astar is not the cheapest, but there's something to be said for you get what you pay for. "
"Overall,again they did a great job, the original price was adjusted after seeing part of the structure didn't need insulation. I did ask if they would put the unused portion in the attic, but it appeared they weren't interested in doing that. It may have required the job to last longer, but that's just my assumption."
"It's a pretty decent system, I think. They send you the pieces and you install them yourself, which is pretty easy. The only real problem I have is that one sensor is too far away from the panel...or there's some interference, and they haven't been able to fix that. It's an interior door, so it's not the end of the world, just a little annoying. Their customer service is pretty good though. Nice, smart customer service people on the other end, very polite and helpful."
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.
Because of the potential danger associated with incorrectly capping the gas line that serves the gas fireplace, many people will choose to hire a professional to do the work. Some homeowners may choose to hire a pro to only handle the gas line for them. They then may attempt to remove the actual insert on their own, which is a challenging—but not impossible—DIY project.
The height of the chimney for your outdoor fireplace depends on where the fireplace is located. Ideally, the chimney should be 2 to 3 feet higher than surrounding structures; this allows smoke to ventilate properly without endangering anyone or anything.
Note: Your municipality may have strict requirements regarding chimney heights, so it’s always a good idea to check local building codes.
When done correctly by a professional, chimney repointing can last for several decades—often 30 years or more. This maintenance is crucial for keeping the chimney structure sound, improving its waterproofing, and preventing more significant and costly repairs, such as a partial or complete rebuild. It is recommended to schedule an annual inspection to catch any potential issues early. If you notice the chimney's brickwork looks worn out or crumbly, you should hire a professional to inspect it.
A fireplace can increase a home's value by as much as 12%, with some reports indicating that homes with fireplaces list for around 13% more than the median sale price. Fireplaces are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, adding a charm that many homebuyers find desirable. The actual return on investment depends on the fireplace's size, type, and material.
However, a fireplace can detract from a property's value if it is unusable, not up to code, or in need of immediate repairs. The type of fireplace also matters; custom electric fireplaces and inserts can add value, while freestanding units that can be removed have less impact.
The Irving, NY homeowners’ guide to fireplace services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
The average fireplace installation cost is $2,438, but prices vary depending on the type and size of the fireplace. Calculate your costs with our guide.
Did you know fireplaces are a profitable home feature? From cozy indoor retreats to trendy outdoor designs, these fireplace ideas are sure to inspire you.
With a few easy decorating tips, you can make your bedroom fireplace the stylish focal point of your room. Up the cozy aesthetic of your bedroom with these 12 ideas.
