What questions should I ask a fireplace installer before hiring them?
In Clyde, ask how the installer upgrades a dated fireplace, since many 1960s-to-80s ranch homes here have tired boxes ready for a modern insert. Then ask the essentials, a licensed North Carolina gas contractor, Haywood County permit, liability and workers' comp, an in-house gas line, and a workmanship guarantee. Clyde runs mixed fuel, so also ask which fuel your address is on and whether they set up propane right.
Dated ranch fireplace, modern insert
Clyde's 1960s-to-80s ranch homes came with fireplaces that are past their prime and ready for an insert upgrade. Ask the installer whether a sealed gas or wood insert fits your existing firebox, whether the flue needs a liner, and how much more heat you'd actually get; a properly sized insert commonly runs 70% efficient or better versus an open box that loses heat. Ask them to size it to your rooms.
River humidity and Haywood permitting
Clyde shares the Pigeon valley's cold-air drainage, and river humidity rusts dampers and degrades masonry chimneys, so ask the installer to inspect the damper, flue, and cap before quoting. Confirm they pull the Haywood County permit and meet the inspector too; a company that skips the permit is doing gas work off the books, which can void your insurance.
Fuel, license, guarantee
Ask which fuel serves your address and whether they configure propane correctly with the right orifices and pressures. Above all, ask whether they're a licensed gas contractor, because only a licensed contractor can legally connect the fuel in North Carolina. Get proof of liability and workers' comp and a clear workmanship guarantee. Our Asheville showroom is a 25-minute drive from Clyde. Call (828) 545-0525.
Fireplace help in Clyde
We install and service fireplaces throughout Clyde and the rest of Haywood County — just 25 minutes west from our Asheville-area showroom.
Related questions
- How do I know if a fireplace installer is qualified?
- What are red flags when hiring a fireplace company?
- What insurance should a fireplace installer carry?
- How do I check reviews and references for a fireplace installer?
- Who should install a gas fireplace — a plumber, an HVAC company, or a fireplace store?