Are masonry fireboxes better than prefabricated ones?

• <div><p>Handbuilt masonry fireplaces are likely what comes to mind when we think about curling up by the fire at the end of the day. But bricks in the firebox and chimney tend to be heavy, which is not ideal for homes with weak or damaged foundations.</p><p>Prefabricated fireboxes come with a full flue and chimney system, significantly reducing the price and installation time. However, if you need to replace the panels down the line, you are locked into the same model or something very similar.</p></div>

How much does it cost to have a pro add a damper to a chimney?

• <div><p>The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/chimney-damper-replacement-cost.htm">cost to replace a chimney damper</a> ranges from <b>$160 to $520</b>, depending on the type of damper and the complexity of the installation. If you're looking to repair an existing damper, expect to pay around <b>$100 and $225,</b> depending on the extent of the damage and your location. Hiring a professional ensures proper installation or repair, which can help maintain energy efficiency and prevent drafts, making it a worthwhile investment for long-term savings. </p></div>

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Q: What is the easiest fireplace to build?

• <div><p>The easiest fireplace to build is an electric fireplace. These aren&rsquo;t true fireplaces but can mimic the look of a traditional fireplace. True fireplaces, made of brick and stone, are complex and require professional installation; adding them to an existing home is demanding and expensive. You could spend <b>$30,000 </b>to have a real fireplace installed.</p></div>

Q: How do I know if my chimney is safe to operate?

• <div><p>Beyond having an inspection, it&rsquo;s important to do chimney maintenance at least annually to be certain the chimney is safe to use. Cleaning the flue of any built-up particles, creosote, and soot reduces the risk of fire. Fortunately, the cost of hiring a pro to do a chimney inspection often includes a chimney cleaning, so you may not have an extra expense for maintenance.</p></div>

Q: Is a chimney cap necessary?

• <div><p>Chimney caps are necessary both from a building safety standpoint in most municipalities and to keep your home protected from a variety of issues. Chimney caps are not only mandated by building code in most areas, but they also serve to keep squirrels, raccoons, and other pests out of your home, as well as snow and rain. Therefore, they help to avoid property damage, making them a worthwhile investment.</p></div>

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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
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Reviewed in August 2024
Had some doors replaced, interior painting done, my deck stained, and it turned out great!
Maple Painting & Carpentry, LLC
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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
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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
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Reviewed in September 2023
They painted doors and out building. They did not refinish my cabinets
Douglas Painting
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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
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Reviewed in July 2021
Very nice people! Did a great job on 15 shrubs.
A&J Specialties, LLC
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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
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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
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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
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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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Fireplaces questions, answered by experts

Handbuilt masonry fireplaces are likely what comes to mind when we think about curling up by the fire at the end of the day. But bricks in the firebox and chimney tend to be heavy, which is not ideal for homes with weak or damaged foundations.

Prefabricated fireboxes come with a full flue and chimney system, significantly reducing the price and installation time. However, if you need to replace the panels down the line, you are locked into the same model or something very similar.

The easiest fireplace to build is an electric fireplace. These aren’t true fireplaces but can mimic the look of a traditional fireplace. True fireplaces, made of brick and stone, are complex and require professional installation; adding them to an existing home is demanding and expensive. You could spend $30,000 to have a real fireplace installed.

Beyond having an inspection, it’s important to do chimney maintenance at least annually to be certain the chimney is safe to use. Cleaning the flue of any built-up particles, creosote, and soot reduces the risk of fire. Fortunately, the cost of hiring a pro to do a chimney inspection often includes a chimney cleaning, so you may not have an extra expense for maintenance.

Chimney caps are necessary both from a building safety standpoint in most municipalities and to keep your home protected from a variety of issues. Chimney caps are not only mandated by building code in most areas, but they also serve to keep squirrels, raccoons, and other pests out of your home, as well as snow and rain. Therefore, they help to avoid property damage, making them a worthwhile investment.

The cost to replace a chimney damper ranges from $160 to $520, depending on the type of damper and the complexity of the installation. If you're looking to repair an existing damper, expect to pay around $100 and $225, depending on the extent of the damage and your location. Hiring a professional ensures proper installation or repair, which can help maintain energy efficiency and prevent drafts, making it a worthwhile investment for long-term savings.

The Merlin, OR homeowners’ guide to fireplace services

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