"When we discovered that the top of our chimney needed repairs, and that the whole chimney needed to be a foot higher to meet code, we looked for a chimney design that would look good, and a person to accomplish this. When Anthony from Four Winds Masonry and Chimney came to meet us, he impressed us by his knowledge and experience of chimneys and his attention to our thoughts and concerns. He proposed a lift rather than scaffolding that could scar our new roof and offered to bring samples of bricks that most closely matched out existing chimney. He also seemed delighted to have an artistic challenge. The work took 4 days, as he said, and we are thrilled with the results which add to the look of the house. Anthony and his helper Kyle were a pleasure to know and to have working around the house, did an excellent job and left the site perfectly clean. Wolf & Elizabeth S."
"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."
"We have a brick chimney at our recently bought house that needed a chimney inspection. The previous owners put on a new roof and we were concerned about leaking. Vinny was very professional and checked everything thoroughly. He said all looked good and he would checked it again on the spring. I highly suggest him! Quick response time, courteous and very professional."
"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!
"Great company! I called and scheduled for a sweep and inspection of my fireplace. While the technician was there he noticed some spots on my chimney that needed repair and quoted me on the spot. The workmen who came out were wonderful, polite and very informative. I would recommend Felgemacher to anyone who wants quality work in a timely manner."
Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of creosote and soot, ensuring good airflow and reducing the risks of chimney fires that could compromise safety.
Some of the reasons a chimney damper won't close properly include shoddy installation, age-related damage, or heavy snow or ice affecting a top-sealing type. Poor chimney maintenance and a buildup of rust, debris, or creosote can also cause dampers to jam. Annual inspections and chimney sweep costs are worth it to help you avoid a damper disaster.
The best style of chimney cap for a brick chimney is one that fits tightly around the brick top of the chimney. The cap should have a screen to fully enclose it to keep animals out. The best materials include stainless steel, copper, or aluminum that fit tightly or are custom fabricated for a perfect fit on your chimney.
A chimney liner isn’t required for an outdoor fireplace; you don’t technically need one if the masonry chimney uses the proper dimensions and is built to code. However, a chimney liner does serve as a protective coating for the flue. Adding a liner could improve performance, safety, and durability. In short, while not necessary, it wouldn’t hurt.
The best time to clean your chimney is before you need to use it, which for most people is during the spring, summer, or early fall. Spring and summer are often ideal because the chimney is not in use, and chimney sweeps can access the roof more easily without snow and ice. The warmer months are also better for making any necessary repairs. To avoid the rush when chimney sweeps get booked up in early spring and late fall, scheduling your cleaning for the summer can be a safe bet. It's recommended to book your annual chimney sweep during these warmer months to maintain a yearly schedule.
The Oakfield, NY homeowners’ guide to fireplace services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
With a gas fireplace, it’s important to stay up-to-date on your inspections. Learn more about how much gas fireplace inspections cost before you book one.
Find out if you really need a chimney to install a fireplace in your home. This guide helps you understand your options, such as a ventless fireplace, when choosing the right fireplace for your home if you don't have a chimney.