We are homeowners here. We plan to replace our B-vent gas log fireplace with a direct vent gas insert. We probably will have new a new stone surround installed. With that in mind we are looking to have a single fireplace/hearth/patio-type store do both the fireplace installation and masonry work. That narrows down our options.
What kind of "credentials" should an installer have? In Illinois there are no license requirements for gas fireplace installers or HVAC technicians either. My city doesn't require a permit for installation either. I've read about the National Fireplace Institute (NFI) certification and of course some manufacturers recommend to use an NFI certified installer: Mendota comes to mind. So, I go the the NFI website to look up certified installers in the Chicago area. THere's one fireplace store where the staff appears to be certified. But they don't do any masonry work. And they are pretty far away from me. The other certified technicians are with a traditional chimney sweep company. Since we can't find an NFI certified installer--and I recognize that that may be a marketing tool for the public--how do I evaluate an installer? what questions should I ask the sales people regarding the qualifications of the installer? Also what should I be asking in terms of customer service after installation and with the manufacturer? I can't find anything in Consumer Reports (which seems strange to me.) Or am I overthinking this?
One place has come out and given us some options. They can provide references. They get good reviews on Angie's list (fwiw). We also have a neighbor who was pleased with them. I've place a couple calls to other deals. One never returned the call. The other said we lived too far from them.
What kind of "credentials" should an installer have? In Illinois there are no license requirements for gas fireplace installers or HVAC technicians either. My city doesn't require a permit for installation either. I've read about the National Fireplace Institute (NFI) certification and of course some manufacturers recommend to use an NFI certified installer: Mendota comes to mind. So, I go the the NFI website to look up certified installers in the Chicago area. THere's one fireplace store where the staff appears to be certified. But they don't do any masonry work. And they are pretty far away from me. The other certified technicians are with a traditional chimney sweep company. Since we can't find an NFI certified installer--and I recognize that that may be a marketing tool for the public--how do I evaluate an installer? what questions should I ask the sales people regarding the qualifications of the installer? Also what should I be asking in terms of customer service after installation and with the manufacturer? I can't find anything in Consumer Reports (which seems strange to me.) Or am I overthinking this?
One place has come out and given us some options. They can provide references. They get good reviews on Angie's list (fwiw). We also have a neighbor who was pleased with them. I've place a couple calls to other deals. One never returned the call. The other said we lived too far from them.
