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Removing a chimney is difficult. You may need to take it out brick by brick from inside the walls. If it’s part of the load bearing structure of the home, removing it becomes even more difficult. Chimney removal cost can range from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity of the job, and whether or not it’s load bearing. For this reason, many people will choose to remove the fireplace and seal the chimney at the bottom and top. You could remove the visible exterior section of the chimney at the roofline before sealing it, too.

It’s hard to calculate how long a chimney damper will last because its life span depends on various factors, namely how often you use your fireplace, how much debris gets into your chimney regularly, and what material your damper is made of. It’s best to schedule an annual chimney inspection so a pro can examine it and let you know if it’s time for a replacement.

A chimney liner isn’t required for an outdoor fireplace; you don’t technically need one if the masonry chimney uses the proper dimensions and is built to code. However, a chimney liner does serve as a protective coating for the flue. Adding a liner could improve performance, safety, and durability. In short, while not necessary, it wouldn’t hurt.

In some cases, you can use a fireplace once the insert has been removed. However, before burning a fire, you must have a professional inspect it and the chimney to make sure they're functioning properly and no damage has occurred from removing the insert. That’s because using a fireplace without an insert could create fire hazards due to issues with airflow and heat dispersion, depending on the fireplace design and material. A professional can advise on whether you should make certain repairs or modifications before using your fireplace as an open hearth.