Decade after decade, fireplaces are one of the most sought-after features in real estate. For many families, achieving the dream of having a fireplace in the home means forgoing masonry in favor of less expensive prefabricated units.
Prefabricated fireplaces and chimneys offer the same benefits as their masonry counterparts, but they often have a significantly shorter lifespan. While most prefabricated chimneys can last up to 25 years, many need to be repaired – or replaced – before this due to condition, upkeep, maintenance, and damage.
Replacing a prefabricated chimney is much more than simply picking out a new fireplace unit. Because of this, it is important to trust a fireplace professional with experience installing and replacing prefabricated chimneys. 
How long can my prefabricated chimney last?
Factory built fireplaces and chimneys are not inherently flimsy or built using sub-standard materials. Despite this, they simply do not have the same lifespan as their masonry counterparts.
Prefabricated or factory-built fireplaces and chimneys are not inherently flimsy or built using sub-standard materials. Despite this, they simply do not have the same lifespan as their masonry counterparts.
The lifespan of a prefabricated fireplace is similar to that of major home appliances such as refrigerators. Even with regular maintenance and upkeep, prefabricated chimney units have a lifespan of 20-30 years.
How long a prefabricated chimney lasts often comes down to two factors: use and maintenance. Like with most major appliances, the more a prefabricated chimney is used the faster it will deteriorate and the faster it will need to be replaced; a fireplace that is only used one or two times each year will often have a much longer lifespan than a unit that is used daily during the winter months.
Regular maintenance such as chimney sweepings and inspections can also impact the lifespan of your prefabricated chimney. Prefabricated chimneys are much more prone to leaks than their masonry counterparts; the multiple metal components of prefabricated chimneys are particularly susceptible to water damage. Annual maintenance can help prevent leaks or identify them before they cause significant damage; while forgetting or forgoing regular sweepings can cause the chimney to deteriorate faster.
Replacing a prefabricated chimney.
Replacing a prefabricated chimney is not as simple as going to the store and picking out a new fireplace. This technical work involves in-depth understanding of the makeup of older chimney systems, as well as the installation requirements for newer units. Likewise, replacing a prefabricated chimney usually involves removing and replacing trim, tiles, marble, mantels, and more. Because of this, it is important to work with certified chimney professionals when replacing prefabricated chimneys.
At Coopertown Services, our staff is trained and certified in the areas of replacing prefabricated chimneys. With more than 30 years of experience replacing prefabricated units, our chimney technicians can ensure the construction is as quick and painless as possible, leaving you with a beautiful new chimney system that can be enjoyed for years to come.
If your prefabricated chimney is more than 20 years old, it may be time to have it replaced. For more information on installing a new prefabricated fireplace or to schedule a sweeping or inspection for your older prefabricated unit, contact the experts at Coopertown Services today!