"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."
To maintain a stove, clean the stove, chimney, or vent regularly. You should also use seasoned wood or pellets. Schedule an annual professional inspection to ensure safety.
Regular fireplace servicing is vital for safety and efficiency. You must inspect and clean wood-burning fireplaces annually to remove creosote buildup and address potential issues. Gas fireplaces benefit from annual inspections to ensure proper functioning and safety. More frequent servicing may be necessary if you use your fireplace extensively or live in an area with harsh winters. Always consult a local professional to establish a suitable servicing schedule for your fireplace.
Fireplaces can theoretically help you save on heating bills if you lower the temperature throughout the rest of your home and heat only a single room that you occupy using the fireplace. However, in most cases, homeowners won’t save any money on heating bills. Gas and electric fireplace inserts could actually lead to a spike in your respective energy bills if you use them frequently, and if you don’t keep up with chimney maintenance and repairs, your traditional masonry fireplace could actually be a source of heat loss in the winter.
Like any other household appliance, electric fireplaces can wear out after about 10 to 20 years. With more frequent use, the parts will wear out quicker, and you may get just 7 to 10 years out of a well-loved electric fireplace. Fortunately, electric fireplaces come with a lower upfront installation cost compared to alternatives like gas, so you can install a replacement for less.
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.
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.