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’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’re banned in certain places (including California).</p></div>

What are the different levels of chimney inspection?

• <div><p>Chimney sweeps perform three levels of inspections:</p><ol><li><p>Level One: This is a basic annual inspection, often a visual inspection during cleaning, which is the most affordable.</p></li><li><p>Level Two: This stage is ideal when selling or buying a home as it involves an inspection of the attic and roof, which is moderately priced.</p></li><li><p>Level Three: This is a very thorough inspection that should take place after major storms or earthquakes, which is the most costly type of inspection.</p></li></ol><p></p></div>

Get matched with top fireplace pros in Bayfield, WI

Q: Can a fireplace be built on an existing house?

• <div><p>You can build a fireplace on an existing house, but it&rsquo;s much easier to construct a masonry fireplace when building a new house. To add to an existing house, you&rsquo;ll need to build a chimney and ensure the foundation can support a true masonry fireplace. Alternatively, you can purchase a gas or electric fireplace insert, which isn&rsquo;t as complicated to add to an existing structure.</p></div>

Q: Can you use a chimney without a flue?

• <div><p>No. Removing the cause of concern will only lead to deeper concern. You cannot use any fire-powered appliance like a fireplace or furnace without an escape route for the smoke and fumes. If you remove the flue intending to repair or replace it, you should only use the fireplace, wood stove, or furnace once the flue is in working order. If you cannot replace the flue you have removed, call a <a href="https://www.angi.com/nearme/chimney-repair/">chimney repair professional</a> immediately.</p></div>

Q: What to spray in a fireplace for smell?

• <div><p>When your fireplace is not in use for longer periods of time, such as over the summer, you can keep smells at bay by spraying either a commercial fireplace deodorizing product or a blend of one part distilled white vinegar to one part water around the walls of the fireplace. </p><p>Or, you can place a container of charcoal inside the fireplace to absorb odors. Just be sure to remove it before it&rsquo;s time to start using the fireplace again.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Fireplace Service pros in Bayfield, WI

*The Angi rating for Fireplace Service companies in Bayfield, WI 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 Bayfield, WI 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 January 21, 2025

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Shamrock Maintenance, Corp.

4.8(

)

Brick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - InstallBrick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - RepairClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stove+3 more

Serving Bayfield, WI and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1985

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Shamrock Maintenance Corp is a professional chimney service company dedicated to helping homeowners maintain safe, efficient, and well-functioning chimneys. We specialize in chimney inspections, cleanings, repairs, and preventative maintenance, with a strong focus on fire safety and long-term home protection.\n\nOur team is known for providing honest recommendations, clear documentation, and straightforward communication so homeowners can make informed decisions without pressure. We work with both modern and older homes, including historic properties, using appropriate methods to protect the structure and integrity of each home.\n\nWe proudly serve our local communities by prioritizing safety, quality workmanship, and reliable service. At Shamrock Maintenance Corp, every home is treated with care, professionalism, and respect.

+10

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

Serving Bayfield, WI 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

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Ryan Foley Masonry & Construction LLC

5.0(

)

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

Serving Bayfield, WI and surrounding areas

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"My building foundation and floor are beautiful. Ryan did a great job. He was very efficient, knowledgeable and easy to work with."

+73

Response time9 hrs

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Hip & Ridge Construction

4.5(

)

Brick or Stone Fireplace - Repair

Serving Bayfield, WI and surrounding areas

In business since 2011

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"The windows our great! Energy saving due to the insulated glass saves money and never fogs or has condensation on the windows. The durability and ease of cleaning and opening these windows are a dream! Along with the aesthetics.
The crew that came to install the windows did awesome work fast cleaned up there work area things were in great shape when leaving. Since then I have had follow up calls and follow visits to make sure everything is working as I believe it should be which it is. Great company!! Would have them do any work for me and my family and would have them do anyone else's work too. Do not let this company slip by without a try!"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Fireplaces questions, answered by experts

You can build a fireplace on an existing house, but it’s much easier to construct a masonry fireplace when building a new house. To add to an existing house, you’ll need to build a chimney and ensure the foundation can support a true masonry fireplace. Alternatively, you can purchase a gas or electric fireplace insert, which isn’t as complicated to add to an existing structure.

No. Removing the cause of concern will only lead to deeper concern. You cannot use any fire-powered appliance like a fireplace or furnace without an escape route for the smoke and fumes. If you remove the flue intending to repair or replace it, you should only use the fireplace, wood stove, or furnace once the flue is in working order. If you cannot replace the flue you have removed, call a chimney repair professional immediately.

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).

When your fireplace is not in use for longer periods of time, such as over the summer, you can keep smells at bay by spraying either a commercial fireplace deodorizing product or a blend of one part distilled white vinegar to one part water around the walls of the fireplace.

Or, you can place a container of charcoal inside the fireplace to absorb odors. Just be sure to remove it before it’s time to start using the fireplace again.

Chimney sweeps perform three levels of inspections:

Level One: This is a basic annual inspection, often a visual inspection during cleaning, which is the most affordable.
Level Two: This stage is ideal when selling or buying a home as it involves an inspection of the attic and roof, which is moderately priced.
Level Three: This is a very thorough inspection that should take place after major storms or earthquakes, which is the most costly type of inspection.

The Bayfield, WI homeowners’ guide to fireplace services

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