Are elm trees good for firewood?

• <div><p>Compared to certain types of firewood like pine or spruce—which burn off sticky resin contained within the wood that creates lots of smoke—elm isn’t the worst option for burning in a fireplace.</p><p>Because elm wood is dense, it burns at a moderate pace and does a pretty good job of keeping your home warm. Hardwood like maple or oak may perform slightly better, but elm isn’t a bad choice overall.</p></div>

Get matched with top fireplace pros in Merlin, OR

Q: Are elm trees good for firewood?

• <div><p>Compared to certain types of firewood like pine or spruce&mdash;which burn off sticky resin contained within the wood that creates lots of smoke&mdash;elm isn&rsquo;t the worst option for burning in a fireplace.</p><p>Because elm wood is dense, it burns at a moderate pace and does a pretty good job of keeping your home warm. Hardwood like maple or oak may perform slightly better, but elm isn&rsquo;t a bad choice overall.</p></div>

Q: What is the best style of chimney cap?

• <div><p>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.</p></div>

Q: What are the disadvantages of a wood-burning stove?

• <div><p>The disadvantages of a wood-burning stove include a slow heating time and the effort required for fuel. It can take about an hour for a cold stove to produce noticeable heat. Additionally, homeowners must source their own fuel by buying or chopping firewood, cutting it to the appropriate size, and storing it in a dry place. The fire also requires regular attention, as you'll need to add more logs throughout the day.</p></div>

Q: Are chimneys usually load-bearing?

• <div><p>The answer can vary widely based on a home's age and design. As with any type of remodeling project, assume that every structure is load-bearing until confirming otherwise with a structural engineer. Almost all modern homes have chimneys that are fully independent from the rest of the home's framing. As a result, they don't bear any load beyond their own weight. However, many historic homes built prior to the 1900s contain load-bearing chimneys that tie into the surrounding roof and floor joists. If possible, use a home's blueprints or look for chimney connections that indicate load-bearing qualities to get your answer.</p></div>

Q: Are pellet stoves safer than wood stoves?

• <div><p>Pellet stoves are safer than wood stoves in many ways. They don&rsquo;t produce as many creosote deposits as wood stoves do, they create less smoke, and the flames are contained, decreasing the risk of any sparks or embers creating a house fire. Pellet stoves also burn more cleanly and efficiently than wood stoves do.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your fireplace service project in Merlin, OR?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Fireplace Service pros in Merlin, OR

*The Angi rating for Fireplace Service companies in Merlin, OR 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 Merlin, OR 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 October 31, 2024

Reviewed in October 2024
Justin was professional and shared good insights with our bath project. It was a start from scratch job that included a hydronic floor heating system that we love. From the tiling to the wall texture he delivered the character we wanted for our century old home.
JUSTIN SANDERS PROJECT MANAGEMENT LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2024
Had some doors replaced, interior painting done, my deck stained, and it turned out great!
Maple Painting & Carpentry, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in January 2024
We needed a door and a couple windows installed into a metal building. They guys did a great job, very professional and friendly. I will definitely be calling them again for future projects.
BRANDON BURTONS GENERAL CONTRACTING
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2023
They replaced the entire heating/ac system including ductwork, which had never been properly installed. They were prompt, efficient, neat, and pleasant we are very pleased.
Indoor Air Man
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2023
They painted doors and out building. They did not refinish my cabinets
Douglas Painting
Request a quote
Reviewed in January 2023
There's nothing like walking into a spotless house after a long day at work. Tasha takes all the stress of the mess away and makes time for me to enjoy with my family. I know that my house and my pets are in the best of hands when they're left in Tasha's care!
Before and After Cleaning Services, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2021
Very nice people! Did a great job on 15 shrubs.
A&J Specialties, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2021
This review is long overdue, but this company is excellent! Jerry knows his stuff and he and his wife Sherry are great!!! Will be our go to heating and air people.
GRANTS PASS HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING
Request a quote
Reviewed in December 2014
So, Smokey's sometimes has a reputation for being spendy, but I needed a fireplace extension (a fireproof "mat" in front of the wood stove insert) in order to pass insurance inspection -- and for safety reasons. The clerk at the Grants Pass Smokey's was wonderful: light-hearted, professional,...
Smokey's Stoves
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2013
We live in a rural area. Our propane gas fireplace insert with a blower, had not been used for at least five years. We recently moved in and could not get the fireplace to work despite taking it apart ourselves and following suggestions in the owners manual. We found Andrew on Angie's list. It...
Andrew Korte Heating & A C Inc
Request a quote

Find Fireplace pros in Merlin

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

Serving Merlin, OR 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

Brick or Stone Fireplace (Gas) - InstallBrick or Stone Fireplace (Gas) - RepairBrick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - Install+12 more

Serving Merlin, OR and surrounding areas

In business since 2013

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Cleaning and installation services for your stoves and fireplaces. Whether it's wood, gas or pellet, we service them all. we have the experience, connections and style to bring your vision to life,on schedule and on budget! Call us today for the area's best!

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Collins Home Services

4.0(

)

Gas, Pellet, or Wood Stove - Repair

Serving Merlin, OR and surrounding areas

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"He was efficient and kind, enclosed our porch and now we have a beautiful space to enjoy during the cold or hot weather."

Recommended by71%of homeowners

Request Quote

Brian Franklin Millett

4.8(

)

Brick or Stone Fireplace (Gas) - InstallBrick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - Install

Serving Merlin, OR and surrounding areas

In business since 1998

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Brian's work is very professionally done. In addition to the cement work he completed a small addition to my deck. I have already recommended him to friends. It was a pleasure working with him."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

JBC Group Solutions Inc

4.0(

)

Brick or Stone Fireplace - Repair

Serving Merlin, OR and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Emergency services offered

"I have been using them for 3 years for multiple projects and would not go to somebody else. They also built a cabin in the woods. It was built 10 miles from the road so it was like carrying all the stuff up the path. They also did the garage and remodeling of the house, mostly kitchen and a little bit of plumbing work in the bathroom. I am still using them and I would be using them for the next thing that will be coming up too."

Recommended by75%of homeowners

Request Quote

Brown bear masonry

New to Angi

Brick or Stone Fireplace (Gas) - InstallBrick or Stone Fireplace (Gas) - RepairBrick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - Install+1 more

Serving Merlin, OR and surrounding areas

We are able to help with any project that involves concrete, masonry, pavers, you name it we can do it. Please reach out for a free quote, we can make an appointment to look at what you would like done.

Request Quote

Fireplaces questions, answered by experts

Compared to certain types of firewood like pine or spruce—which burn off sticky resin contained within the wood that creates lots of smoke—elm isn’t the worst option for burning in a fireplace.

Because elm wood is dense, it burns at a moderate pace and does a pretty good job of keeping your home warm. Hardwood like maple or oak may perform slightly better, but elm isn’t a bad choice overall.

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.

The disadvantages of a wood-burning stove include a slow heating time and the effort required for fuel. It can take about an hour for a cold stove to produce noticeable heat. Additionally, homeowners must source their own fuel by buying or chopping firewood, cutting it to the appropriate size, and storing it in a dry place. The fire also requires regular attention, as you'll need to add more logs throughout the day.

The answer can vary widely based on a home's age and design. As with any type of remodeling project, assume that every structure is load-bearing until confirming otherwise with a structural engineer. Almost all modern homes have chimneys that are fully independent from the rest of the home's framing. As a result, they don't bear any load beyond their own weight. However, many historic homes built prior to the 1900s contain load-bearing chimneys that tie into the surrounding roof and floor joists. If possible, use a home's blueprints or look for chimney connections that indicate load-bearing qualities to get your answer.

Pellet stoves are safer than wood stoves in many ways. They don’t produce as many creosote deposits as wood stoves do, they create less smoke, and the flames are contained, decreasing the risk of any sparks or embers creating a house fire. Pellet stoves also burn more cleanly and efficiently than wood stoves do.

The Merlin, OR homeowners’ guide to fireplace services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Allie Ogletree
•
Jul 31, 2026Jul 31, 2026
How Much Does a Bioethanol Fireplace Cost? [2026 Data]
Bioethanol fireplaces are a chimney- and vent-free way to enjoy a real-flame fire in your home. Keep reading to find out how much ethanol fireplaces cost.
Tyler Lacoma
•
Aug 3, 2026Aug 3, 2026
How Much Does Fireplace Installation Cost? [2026 Data]
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.
Haley Nothstein
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does Fireplace Repair Cost? [2026 Data]
Use our guide to estimate your fireplace repair costs, based on the type of fireplace you have—and what part is broken.
Barbara Bellesi Zito
•
Jul 8, 2026Jul 8, 2026
11 Parts of a Fireplace You Should Know
There are many working parts of a fireplace, and a basic understanding of their functions can help homeowners properly maintain all of them over time.
Kaitlyn Pacheco
•
Jul 20, 2026Jul 20, 2026
50+ Stylish Fireplace Ideas to Boost Your Home’s Value
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.
C.E. Larusso
•
Aug 4, 2026Aug 4, 2026
12 Cozy Bedroom Fireplace Ideas to Consider
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.