Your Trusted Partner for Fireplace Upgrades & Replacements in Raleigh, Durham & More
Is your current fireplace showing its age? Or maybe you’re just ready for a change? Whether you’re dealing with a worn-out prefabricated unit, considering a switch from wood-burning to gas, or simply want a fresh look for your living space, Mr. Smokestack provides complete fireplace replacement services throughout the Triangle and Triad regions. Our CSIA-certified technicians handle everything from careful removal of your existing unit to professional installation of your new fireplace – including framing, venting, and final quality checks documented with photos.
What Types of Replacement Fireplaces Do We Install?
We install a range of factory-built fireplace options to match your lifestyle and home:
- Gas fireplaces: Traditional log sets, contemporary linear designs, and everything in between
- Gas inserts: Fit into existing fireplace openings for efficient heating
- Wood-burning fireplaces: High-efficiency models for those who love a real fire
- Wood-burning inserts and stoves: Maximize heat output from your existing opening
- Electric options: For locations where gas or wood isn’t practical
How Do I Know if My Old Fireplace Needs To Be Replaced?
Several signs indicate it’s time for a replacement fireplace rather than a repair:
- Age of the unit – prefabricated fireplaces typically last 15-25 years, depending on use and maintenance
- Visible rust or deterioration on the firebox, damper, or panels
- Cracked or warped refractory panels that cannot be safely replaced
- Persistent draft issues that repairs haven’t resolved
- The manufacturer has discontinued replacement parts for your model
- Failed inspection due to structural concerns
During our routine fireplace inspections, we’ll give you an honest assessment and explain whether repair or replacement makes the most sense for your situation and budget.
What’s Involved in a “Rip & Replace” Fireplace Installation?
A complete rip and replace means removing your existing fireplace system down to the framing and installing a brand-new unit. Here’s what the process looks like:
- Removal Phase: We carefully dismantle and remove your old firebox, chase components, and venting system. We inspect the surrounding framing for any damage, moisture issues, or code concerns that need addressing.
- Preparation Phase: Any necessary framing repairs or modifications are completed. We ensure the chase and surrounding structure meet current building codes and manufacturer specifications for your new unit.
- Installation Phase: Your new fireplace is installed with proper clearances, connections, and venting. We handle all components (from the firebox to the chimney cap) ensuring everything works together as a complete system.
- Final Inspection: Every new fireplace installation includes a final walkthrough so you understand exactly how your new fireplace operates and what maintenance it requires.
Can I Switch From a Wood-Burning Fireplace to Gas?
Absolutely – it’s one of the most popular upgrades we perform. Converting to gas offers several advantages:
- Convenience: Instant on/off with a switch or remote; no hauling wood or cleaning ash
- Consistent heat: Many gas units provide reliable supplemental heating with adjustable flame settings
- Cleaner operation: No smoke, sparks, or creosote buildup
- Less maintenance: Annual servicing versus regular chimney sweeping
The conversion process depends on your current setup. Some wood-burning fireplaces can accept a gas insert, while others require a complete replacement. We’ll evaluate your existing fireplace, discuss your heating goals and aesthetic preferences, and recommend the best path forward.
What about switching from gas to wood-burning?
This conversion is more complex but possible in many situations. It requires:
- Proper chimney liner installation rated for wood burning
- Adequate clearances to combustibles
- Compliance with local building codes
- A chimney system capable of handling the higher temperatures and byproducts of wood combustion
We’ll assess your home’s specific conditions and let you know if this conversion is feasible and cost-effective for your situation.
How Long Does a Fireplace Replacement Ususally Take?
Most residential replacements are completed in 1-3 days, depending on the scope:
- Simple insert installation: Often same-day
- Standard rip and replace: 1-2 days
- Complex installations (structural modifications, extensive venting runs): 2-3 days
We’ll provide a clear timeline during your consultation so you know what to expect.
Ready to Explore Your Fireplace Replacement Options?
Contact Mr. Smokestack to schedule a consultation. We’ll inspect your current fireplace, discuss your goals, and provide straightforward recommendations with clear explanations, so you can make an informed decision about your fireplace upgrade.
Once your new system is in, our chimney and vent experts can handle future maintenance, whether you have a leaky chimney problem or just need a standard sweeping.