Is a fireplace hearth necessary?

• <div><p>A fireplace hearth is necessary in most areas per building codes, especially for gas and wood-burning fireplaces. Electric fireplaces may not require a hearth, so check local building codes or ask a pro for guidance if you’re leaning toward electric. A fireplace hearth can decrease the risk of flying embers creating a fire and burning your home down. That’s why fireproof material, like tile, is used for the hearth.</p></div>

How do I choose an EPA-approved wood fireplace insert?

• <div><p>You can research your fireplace insert or retrofit by checking out the <a href="https://cfpub.epa.gov/oarweb/woodstove/index.cfm?fuseaction=app.about">EPA wood stove database.</a> The database includes information, such as a model's emission rate, efficiency, and carbon dioxide output.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Fireplace Service pros in Bristol, VT

*The Angi rating for Fireplace Service companies in Bristol, VT 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 Bristol, VT 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 November 24, 2025

Reviewed in January 2023
We hired Josh for a whole bunch of projectsâ wall removal, interior painting, exterior trim, fireplace build out, etc. He was prompt, communicated well, was there to quickly solve challenges, and flexible when timing and needs changed. He got the job done when we needed him the most. Weâ d...
Crepault Construction
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Reviewed in February 2022
I've hired many folks to do work for me during my 72+ years and 5 owned residences, and Chimney Savers easily rank among the best. Their professionalism integrity and respect remained top notch throughout the three-step process involved in the job - from Alan and Mike's timely coordination and...
Chimney Savers Builders Inc
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Reviewed in May 2021
JD was professional and finished the work in a timely manner. He ensured that we were up to code by grounding our gas fireplace as well as installed wiring and ceiling lights.
Kiehl Electric
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Reviewed in June 2020
Tim Davis of Fireside Gas & Chimney Service is a true professional. He arrived on time at my house and cleaned and inspected my gas fireplace very thoroughly. His price is well below what my propane company wanted to charge me and he also answered all of my questions in a thoughtful, friendly...
Fireside Gas and Chimney Service, LLC
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Reviewed in October 2019
Brick chimney had several spalled bricks, missing mortar and the crown was a complete mess. Tore the top of the chimney down and built it back up and then poured a new crown. Looks great, and they prepped it for the installation of gas inserts in the two fireplaces Excellent job, good workers,...
Hearth & Stone Restoration
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Reviewed in September 2015
Martin went out of his way to find some beautiful wood for my fireplace surround. He did a great job with it and also installed new baseboards. He is very polite and does great work. I will certainly call him for future projects.
Honey-Do Home Repair & Maintenance
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Reviewed in November 2013
We called Brickliners Chimney Service to have them look at the fireplace in our new home. We wanted to know whether it could be used as-is, and whether we could install a wood or pellet stove on the back side of the chimney and making the fireplace inoperable. We wanted estimates on costs of...
Brickliners Chimney Service
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Reviewed in October 2013
I have used Todd Harrington to install a natural gas fireplace prior to this job. He is very professional and his work is excellent. The $1875 cost included the cost of the furnace. I highly recommend.
HARRINGTON'S NATURAL GAS SERVICES
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Reviewed in February 2006
Only one cleaner performed work, and was exactly on time and extremely professional. He ran a large vacuum hose through my house, but laid down mats and was very clean. He finished in under an hour, and even fixed my fireplace screen that had fallen down weeks before. He answered my questions...
The Top Hatter
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Fireplaces questions, answered by experts

A fireplace hearth is necessary in most areas per building codes, especially for gas and wood-burning fireplaces. Electric fireplaces may not require a hearth, so check local building codes or ask a pro for guidance if you’re leaning toward electric. A fireplace hearth can decrease the risk of flying embers creating a fire and burning your home down. That’s why fireproof material, like tile, is used for the hearth.

Having a pellet stove can indeed raise your insurance rates since they're a relatively common cause of fires in the home. However, rate increases vary by insurance provider so you should reach out to yours to determine exactly how much your rates might increase with a new pellet stove install.

You can use normal bricks as cladding for a concrete or clay pizza oven or as a base underneath one. Fire bricks or solid clay bricks are necessary for an outdoor pizza oven’s floor, and you can use clay bricks for the rest of the oven.

No, a hot fire won’t burn off creosote that’s already built up. While the warmth of a fire can loosen caked-on creosote, you run the risk of causing a chimney fire. The best way to clean off old creosote is to have your chimney cleaned by a professional chimney sweep.

You can research your fireplace insert or retrofit by checking out the EPA wood stove database. The database includes information, such as a model's emission rate, efficiency, and carbon dioxide output.

The Bristol, VT 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

C.E. Larusso
•
Oct 22, 2025Oct 22, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Gas Fireplace? [2025 Data]
This guide shares information about the cost to remove a gas fireplace, including the average price to additionally remove the breast, stack, and chimney flue as well as which experts will be needed to complete the project.
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How Much Does a Gas Fireplace Inspection Cost? [2025 Data]
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.
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How Much Does Fireplace Installation Cost? [2025 Data]
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Nov 20, 2025Nov 20, 2025
Fireplace Cracks: Common Causes, Repairs, and Prevention
Maintaining your chimney extends its life and prevents safety hazards. So, no matter how small, find out why cracks appear and the best ways to fix them ASAP.
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Oct 20, 2025Oct 20, 2025
How to Safely Remove a Gas Fireplace in 8 Steps
Learning how to remove a gas fireplace safely is a challenging DIY job. We’ll help you figure out how to do it, or whether you should hire a pro.
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May 1, 2025May 1, 2025
Fireplace Maintenance Tips That Will Keep You Cozy for Longer
Fireplace maintenance is the best way to ensure your fireplace is working safely and efficiently. By cleaning it and hiring a professional to check it regularly, you can significantly reduce the risk of safety threats.