MRH from Ottawa

Quick answer: Robin is a craftsman and takes a craftsman's pride in his work. It shows, and I am very, very pleased with the results. Details: Typical early 90's townhouse with wood fireplace on exterior wall and leaking cold air terribly. Visited a major local company who did a basic estimate (same price as Fireplace West for basic installation). They didn't follow up, even with me phoning. I found Fireplace West on this site. Robin emailed back the same day, came out a few days later, and, due to a customer illness, was able to start the job almost immediately. I wanted not just the old wood fireplace replaced with gas, but to get rid of the horrid stucco above and replace the mantle. I was extremely impressed with the quick, knowledgeable service and even more, the quality. The big company was going to have different people do the gas installation (ripping up my basement drywall, extra charge to repair it, of course), someone else to do the fireplace exchange, and I'd have to find someone else to do any finishing work -- again at extra cost. Having one person (and his assistants) do everything meant when I had a question Robin could answer it, and he would be responsible for all of the work. As work from home I was also very pleased at how quietly he worked (i.e. no music blasting). All my concerns were addressed with respect and detail. The finishing work (new drywall with taping and sanding) was of such quality that the wall feels as smooth as glass. A couple of other tiny jobs (doorknob through wall at back door while moving in) were also fixed without me having to ask. If you want an excellent job done with a craftsman's attention to detail, contact Fireplace West. Example: I was concerned that the lines of the tile surround might not be centered, which would drive me crazy. When I asked Robin he totally agreed. Having a perfectionist work in your home makes all the difference.