Get matched with top fireplace pros in Reading, VT

Q: Is a fireplace the same as a firepit or outdoor oven?

• <div><p>A fireplace is, by definition, an enclosed space where you burn wood or other fuel for the purpose of generating light and heat. A firepit burns wood and is much less expensive to build, but they aren&rsquo;t technically a fireplace as it isn&rsquo;t enclosed. An outdoor oven&mdash;commonly <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-build-outdoor-pizza-oven.htm">outdoor brick pizza ovens</a>&mdash;often uses wood as fuel, but its primary purpose is to cook food, and you&rsquo;d rarely just burn wood inside them for warmth or aesthetic reasons. </p></div>

Q: What are the disadvantages of a gas fireplace insert?

• <div><p>For many people, the primary disadvantage of a gas fireplace insert is that it doesn&rsquo;t look or smell like a classic wood-burning fire. Additionally, the labor costs of installing a gas insert are higher than some other <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/types-fireplace-inserts.htm">types of fireplace inserts</a>, including electric and pellet inserts. There are also limitations on where you can install ventless gas fireplaces because they&rsquo;re banned in certain places (including California).</p></div>

Q: Do electric fireplaces wear out?

• <div><p>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. </p></div>

Q: What are chimney crowns made of?

• <div><p>Chimney crowns may be stone, concrete, or metal but most crowns are made of concrete. It&rsquo;s not recommended to build chimney crowns with mortar (which is different from concrete) due to it&rsquo;s weaker composition (especially when exposed to the outside elements). Most chimney crowns are custom made to fit your home&rsquo;s specific chimney. </p></div>

Q: Can you remove a fireplace but keep the chimney?

• <div><p>Yes, in most cases, you can remove a fireplace while keeping the chimney. This process requires sealing the chimney at the bottom where it connected to the fireplace and capping it at the top. It is essential to consult a chimney professional or inspection specialist beforehand. They will need to determine if the chimney's structural integrity is sufficient to remain safely in place without the support of the fireplace.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Fireplace Service pros in Reading, VT

*The Angi rating for Fireplace Service companies in Reading, 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 Reading, 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 April 03, 2025

Find Fireplace pros in Reading

McBriens Fire & Flue

4.9(

)

Serving Reading, VT and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I am too happy with the work I do MC briens Fire Flue my fireplace needed a fix and in reality they are experts in what they do 10/10 thanks to Omar for your incredible performance !!"

Response time9 hrs

Response rate90%

30 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Sidewinder Industries Handyman Services

5.0(

)

Serving Reading, VT and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Small jobs welcome

"Sidewinder Industries was very knowledgeable, accessible, and helpful. Sidewinder Industries went out of its way to help and support. Thank you"

+15

Response time6 hrs

Response rate100%

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Shamrock Maintenance Corp.

3.5(

)

Serving Reading, VT and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"The Owner of the company came out personally to do the work, Chuck did the antenna removal from the roof and connected a smaller form of receiver. Also, fixed the brick work around the chimney and weather sealed it. Brian and Chuck installed receiver in the pool house for TV reception. They are both technically savvy, thorough, professional and knowledgeable. Great with brick work, went above and beyond and super nice guys! I highly recommend Shamrock Chimney for any project. Thanks again guys!"

+40

Response time8 hrs

Response rate92%

77 neighbors recently requested a quote

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LJ Masonry repair

New to Angi

Serving Reading, VT and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

3 years of bricklaying experience 🧱.

Serving Reading, VT and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Adam and his team did an amazing job on completing a backyard fence for my family. He was hardworking and detailed with the work. Kept me updated through every step of the way from the permit process, ordering materials and check-ins as the build was happening. Our fence is great! He also completed a custom railing and gate to attach to our existing deck. Will definitely be using we do it all again for future projects."

35 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Reading, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"They came to clean chimney and give me a quote. They were super friendly and gave me a great price. They were able to do the work immediately! Highly recommend Shamrock Chimney"

+43

Recommended by60%of homeowners

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Vermont Pressure Washing - Home Facebook

4.6(

)

Serving Reading, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Extremely prompt and courteous service."

+21

Response time3 days

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Green Mountain Chimney Care, LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Reading, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

"I helped Tyler when he was initially was starting out. Even when an issue came out later, he was quick to help! He is an honest and committed professional."

Response time12 hrs

Recommended by75%of homeowners

Serving Reading, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 2009

Free estimates

"The job came out great: straight/plumb, and so on. The crew worked hard and cheerfully through some very tough weather to complete the job in a timely fashion.
"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Mezzogiorno Masonry, LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Reading, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 2010

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Dante DiBiase has affordable prices and overall I was very satisfied with his work. I would highly recommend him!"

+13

Response time3 days

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Showing 1-10 of 21

Fireplaces questions, answered by experts

A fireplace is, by definition, an enclosed space where you burn wood or other fuel for the purpose of generating light and heat. A firepit burns wood and is much less expensive to build, but they aren’t technically a fireplace as it isn’t enclosed. An outdoor oven—commonly outdoor brick pizza ovens—often uses wood as fuel, but its primary purpose is to cook food, and you’d rarely just burn wood inside them for warmth or aesthetic reasons.

For many people, the primary disadvantage of a gas fireplace insert is that it doesn’t look or smell like a classic wood-burning fire. Additionally, the labor costs of installing a gas insert are higher than some other types of fireplace inserts, including electric and pellet inserts. There are also limitations on where you can install ventless gas fireplaces because they’re banned in certain places (including California).

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.

Chimney crowns may be stone, concrete, or metal but most crowns are made of concrete. It’s not recommended to build chimney crowns with mortar (which is different from concrete) due to it’s weaker composition (especially when exposed to the outside elements). Most chimney crowns are custom made to fit your home’s specific chimney.

Yes, in most cases, you can remove a fireplace while keeping the chimney. This process requires sealing the chimney at the bottom where it connected to the fireplace and capping it at the top. It is essential to consult a chimney professional or inspection specialist beforehand. They will need to determine if the chimney's structural integrity is sufficient to remain safely in place without the support of the fireplace.

The Reading, 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

Lyle Hendriks
•
Apr 4, 2026Apr 4, 2026
How Much Does a Fireplace Insert Cost? [2026 Data]
Many homeowners upgrade their old fireplace with inserts to get more heat and save energy and money. Learn more about the cost of installing a fireplace insert.
Paige Bennett
•
Apr 4, 2026Apr 4, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Build an Outdoor Fireplace? [2026 Data]
An outdoor fireplace can easily cost over $3,000 if you aren’t careful with your budget. Learn what factors contribute to the overall cost of this luxury project.
Rachel Hoffman
•
May 3, 2026May 3, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Convert a Fireplace to Gas? [2026 Data]
Want a safer, cleaner alternative to your traditional fireplace? Use this guide to determine the cost to convert a fireplace to gas in your home.
Barbara Bellesi Zito
•
Apr 8, 2026Apr 8, 2026
Can You Install a Fireplace Without a Chimney?
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.
Dan Simms
•
May 3, 2026May 3, 2026
Standard Fireplace Sizes and Dimensions, and How to Choose the Right Size for Your Home
Fireplace size depends on the type of fireplace, where you’re installing it, and much more. Learn about average sizes and what affects dimensions.
Jacqueline DeMarco
•
Apr 10, 2026Apr 10, 2026
Pros and Cons of Ventless Gas Fireplaces in the Home
Considering adding a ventless fireplace to your home? Keep reading to learn about the pros and cons of ventless gas fireplaces.