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No, not all chimneys need a damper. However, most chimneys do, especially in newer homes. Most gas-burning fireplaces cannot function safely without a damper. Only some older wood-burning fireplaces can function safely without one. A chimney without a damper is essentially just an open hole in the roof of your home.

Avoid using abrasive cleansing powders on natural stone, as these products could damage the porous material. Using bleach is also a poor idea because of the porosity of the stone. Avoid using a scrub brush with metal bristles, as they could scratch the stone. If you know who manufactured your stone or who installed the fireplace, you may want to contact that entity for any advice on cleaning it safely.

Outdoor fireplaces are extremely sturdy if constructed correctly, but they do require regular maintenance. The good news is that cleaning and checking the fireplace needs to be done just once a year. However, for safety reasons, let a professional clean the fireplace. Homeowners should expect to pay between $100 and $300 for outdoor fireplace maintenance. Any damage to the fireplace itself, however, will cost much more to repair.

Yes, removing a chimney is a difficult and major undertaking. Chimneys often provide structural support to a home, so if it's a load-bearing structure, you'll need to take extra precautions to maintain your home's integrity. A project of this complexity typically requires a structural engineer, a masonry contractor, and a demolition crew. The removal process may involve taking the chimney out brick by brick from inside the walls. The cost for chimney removal can range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the job's complexity. Due to the difficulty and cost, some homeowners opt to remove the fireplace and seal the chimney at the top and bottom, sometimes also removing the visible exterior portion at the roofline.