We'd like to install a wood burning fireplace on our home, but do not know where to start. Do we need a mason, a carpenter, home renovator? We have a gas fireplace, but we'd need a whole new chimney (it's not for wood burning). I was thinking of joining Angie's list, but again, not sure what category to even search under.
Thanks for your help
N.
just as a head's up: wood-burning fireplaces totally suck if you like a clean, dust-free home. The amount of airborne wood ash/dust is.... (sigh). Don't get me started! We heat our home with a wood stove & I HATE it! An occasional social fire is nice...but not worth the mess for heating a home. :) My 2cents worth!
As for a starting point, everybody else had great ideas!
Google search "fireplace installers in MI."
And check into whatever building codes or permits you'd need.
A general contractor will be licensed and know that.
And to get rid of your gas lines...per your gas fireplace?
Another thing to think of.
I would look at businesses that sell wood burning fireplaces/stoves. They are very popular around where we live and there are many different options in different price ranges. Many of the businesses that we have looked at for maintenance of our 2 wood burning fireplaces do the masonry work if it is necessary.
I would look at a number of businesses/option and get a number of quotes before you decide.
Good luck.
I would start at a store that sells wood burning fireplaces/stoves. I am sure they work with contractors to install as well. Just be sure to get the proper permits from your county so that everything is up to code.
I'd talk to a licensed general contractor who specializes in remodeling and renovation. In addition to needing a new chimney, you'll want to make sure the roof around any openings is flashed, weatherproofed and patched properly. Plus, you may need to install additional fireproof material on the walls and floor around the wood burning fireplace. The best way to find a good contractor is to ask around, your friends and neighborhood. Make sure he/she is licensed/bonded. And do the same for any subs your contractor uses, too.
Either talk with someone who sells wood burning fireplaces or with a general contractor. You can get information in either of those categories from Angie's List. You can also call Angie's list and talk with someone about what you need.
We're Angie's list members and have had success when using it.
