New chimney construction, fireplace masonry, and fireplace surround installation — built to code, built to last, and built to pass every inspection on the first visit.
A custom fireplace isn't just a heat source; it's the architectural anchor of the home. Poor drafting, substandard masonry, and inadequate clearances can turn a centerpiece into a costly hazard.
Incorrect flue-to-firebox ratios push smoke back into your luxury living space. We calculate precise thermodynamic dimensions to guarantee a flawless upward draft every single fire.
Standard brick shatters under intense heat. We lay true refractory firebrick with specialized high-heat mortar, ensuring the core of your fireplace remains impenetrable and structurally sound.
Where the chimney meets the roof is the most vulnerable point on a custom home. We install heavy-gauge custom saddle flashing that permanently diverts water away from the masonry.
A fireplace surround should be a work of art. Subpar masons rush the stone placement, creating awkward joints. Our artisans weave every stone symmetrically for a perfectly balanced visual impact.
From drafting the interior firebox to capping the exterior crown, we build custom chimneys with zero margin for error.
5 phases · Complete accountability
Before any brick is laid, we calculate the exact flue-to-opening ratio, throat size, and smoke chamber angles required for the specific volume of your living room.
Critical detail: Physics drives a fireplace. Getting the math wrong at this stage guarantees a smoky, unusable room.
We lay the internal firebox using extreme-temperature refractory bricks and specialized heat-resistant mortar, parging the smoke chamber smooth to accelerate updraft velocity.
Critical detail: A smooth smoke chamber eliminates turbulence, pulling exhaust safely out of the home.
We install heavy-duty terracotta or stainless steel liners, surrounding them with structural CMU or brick masonry as we ascend through the roofline.
Critical detail: A perfectly insulated stack prevents dangerous creosote condensation.
Our artisans meticulously clad the interior hearth and exterior chimney stalk in your chosen luxury veneer—be it natural limestone, river rock, or classic brick.
Critical detail: This is where engineering meets artistry. We ensure the facade matches the home's grandeur perfectly.
We cast a custom concrete chimney crown with an integrated drip edge, install spark arrestors, and conduct a final draft verification with the general contractor.
Critical detail: A proper poured crown sheds water completely, defending the entire stack from Chicago's freeze-thaw cycles.
A chimney is a complex thermal engine. We never delegate this work to subcontractors. Our trained, long-term employees handle the intricate firebox construction personally.
We don't just build beautiful surrounds; we engineer perfect drafts. We understand the Rumford principles and clearance codes required for luxury, high-ceiling rooms.
Installing a chimney through multiple stories requires intense coordination. We work directly with roofers and framers to ensure flawless, leak-free penetrations.
Since 2007, we have built the centerpieces where families gather. We approach every hearth with the dedication and respect a multi-generational firm demands.
Don't light a fire in a chimney you haven't checked this season.
10 warning signs. 3 minutes. Know if your chimney is safe to use before the first fire of the season. Free.
10 warning signs. 3 minutes. Know if your chimney is safe to use — before the first fire of the season.
"Ran the checklist before our first fire of the season. It flagged two things I'd completely missed — including a missing chimney cap. AMS came out, fixed everything, and the inspection passed clean."
— Barbara T., Homeowner · Highland Park, IL
Safety assessment is based on visual warning signs. A professional chimney inspection by AMS is recommended if any items are flagged. Call 773-656-2107 to schedule.
From towering exterior stone stacks to intricate interior fireplace surrounds—built flawlessly by our in-house masonry experts.
The trusted choice for luxury general contractors.
Every project is different — but here's what most Chicagoland homeowners pay. Pricing varies by chimney height, brick type, and scope.
Pricing varies significantly by chimney height, brick type, and scope. Free on-site estimate is the only accurate number. Schedule yours here.
Every chimney project is assessed for code compliance before work begins. We don't close out until the work passes inspection and the walk-through is complete.
"AMS rebuilt our chimney from the roofline. Two days, passed inspection clean. The new crown has the right slope — exactly how it should be done."
William H.
Evanston, IL · North Shore
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We guarantee that every new open fireplace we design and build will draw smoke correctly. If the physics aren't flawless, we modify the throat until it operates perfectly.
Direct answers regarding custom chimney construction, drafting physics, and GC coordination.
We serve homeowners throughout the Chicago metro — from the North Shore to the Western Suburbs and beyond.
Don't see your city? Contact us — we likely serve your area.
Cracked crowns, deteriorated mortar, spalling brick — chimney repair and full rebuilds for Chicagoland homes.
Mortar joint restoration for brick and stone — the most common masonry repair for Chicagoland homes.
Full-scope masonry for custom home builds — brick, stone, limestone, fireplaces, and chimneys.
