Can you use a fireplace after the insert is removed?

• <div><p>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.</p></div>

Are elm trees good for firewood?

• <div><p>Compared to certain types of firewood like pine or spruce—which burn off sticky resin contained within the wood that creates lots of smoke—elm isn’t the worst option for burning in a fireplace.</p><p>Because elm wood is dense, it burns at a moderate pace and does a pretty good job of keeping your home warm. Hardwood like maple or oak may perform slightly better, but elm isn’t a bad choice overall.</p></div>

Best fireplace pros near Oakboro, NC

Q: How much does it cost to install a brick or stone fireplace?

• <div><p>Costs range from $3,500 to $15,000, depending on material, labor, and design complexity.</p></div>

Q: Should an unused chimney be sealed or capped?

• <div><p>Yes, you should seal and cap an unused chimney to protect it from damage. Sealing the structure helps prevent moisture damage, which can lead to issues like cracks, spalling, efflorescence, and damaged mortar joints. Capping the chimney is also crucial to prevent blockages, damage from invasive critters, and downdrafts, while still allowing for proper air ventilation to manage moisture. For the best results, consult a chimney professional to select the right type of chimney or flue cap for your home. It's also wise to continue with annual chimney inspections to maintain the structure's integrity.</p></div>

Q: Are elm trees good for firewood?

• <div><p>Compared to certain types of firewood like pine or spruce&mdash;which burn off sticky resin contained within the wood that creates lots of smoke&mdash;elm isn&rsquo;t the worst option for burning in a fireplace.</p><p>Because elm wood is dense, it burns at a moderate pace and does a pretty good job of keeping your home warm. Hardwood like maple or oak may perform slightly better, but elm isn&rsquo;t a bad choice overall.</p></div>

Q: Do I need a chimney liner if I don’t have any issues?

• <div><p>A chimney liner is a good thing to invest in regardless of if you have issues or not. Chimney liners increase the safety of your fireplace. Without a chimney liner, the gasses that get emitted during burning could eventually damage the masonry and create a major fire hazard in your home. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Fireplace Service pros in Oakboro, NC

*The Angi rating for Fireplace Service companies in Oakboro, NC is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Fireplace Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Fireplace Service companies in Oakboro, NC is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Fireplace Service needs.

Last update on April 29, 2026

Reviewed in April 2026
The guys knocked out two projects for us a 21x16 patio and install a in ground basketball goal. We are very pleased with the work and the courtesy of the employees.
DD Dos Hermanos Concrete
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Reviewed in April 2025
Awesome work would really recommend them
Diversified Openings LLC
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Reviewed in December 2024
We have had many cords of fire wood delivered from Chuck. Always great wood, delivered on time and at a good price.
C & P Landscape and Supply
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Reviewed in June 2023
Met with Sean in 2013. It took till September 2014 for them to start. You will have to wait on them. Well worth the wait. Their professionalism was far above others. The crew showed up on time. We had them put in 6 full grown green giants. They moved 3 Crepe Myrtles and added other...
Webster Landscaping
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Reviewed in May 2022
He did interior and exterior work in my home and put a screen around my porch. I absolutely loved the outcome. Highly recommend him customer service was great there work was awesome. Prices were reasonable and work was done in a timely manner. I absolutely recommend them 100%
R&V
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Reviewed in May 2022
Super knowledgeable and helpful with getting the chimney in working order.
E R Chimney Sweeps
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Reviewed in March 2018
Tim called back almost immediately after my posting. He did a fantastic job rerouting cables and wires to mount my TV over the fireplace. He explained everything in detail prior to, and during, the install. He cleaned up after the job was done and I've been enjoying the TV since then. ...
Custom Audio Video Designs
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Reviewed in November 2015
I was looking to replace a double vanity in our master bath and wanted granite but thought it would be too costly. I went to both Lowe's & HomeDepot, but their price was way too high, plus the people I worked with at both "big box" stores didn't know their product very well. I left them and...
Fireplace & Granite Distributors Inc
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Reviewed in May 2013
We had a recent chimney fire that we extinquished rather quickly ourselves with water. We noticed a little cracking afterwards so decided to call A CLEAN SWEEP to inspect it and clean it. They discovered a lot of cracking all the way from top to bottom from the fire/water damage. The produced...
Clean Sweep Chimney Solutions
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Reviewed in November 2008
From start to finish Mr. Abernathy was easy to work with. He made some suggestions on home placement on the home site, ideas on areas where we could save some money, and a few design ideas that really made my home unique. He was there everyday working side by side with the different crews. All...
ABERNATHY BUILDERS
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Top-Rated Fireplace pros in Oakboro - Updated Nov 2026

Wolfman Construction

4.9(

)

Brick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - InstallPre-Fabricated Fireplace Unit (Gas) - RepairBrick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - Repair+3 more

Serving Oakboro, NC and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2021

Customers say: Quick response

We are a locally owned and operated business committed to providing exceptional service, quality workmanship, and honest communication on every project we undertake. Our experienced team takes pride in delivering customized solutions tailored specifically to meet each client's unique needs. We value integrity and reliability, ensuring every job is completed to your satisfaction. Our goal is to build lasting relationships with our customers through consistency, professionalism, and outstanding results. Let us show you why homeowners continually choose us as their trusted service provider. \n

5 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Clean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimneyBrick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - Repair

Serving Oakboro, NC and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Did a great job, cleaned out the chimney in about an hour and left no mess. Highly recommend."

Response time7 hrs

Response rate100%

177 neighbors recently requested a quote

Clean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimneyClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stovePre-Fabricated Fireplace Unit (Gas) - Repair

Serving Oakboro, NC and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1991

Offers commercial services

Customers say: True professional

E R Chimney Sweep provides professional chimney cleaning, inspections, and full service chimney repairs We handle all aspects of chimney systems, including liners, caps, chase covers, flashing, and stove installations, helping keep homes safe, efficient, and up to code

6 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by61%of homeowners

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Shamrock Maintenance Corp

3.7(

)

Brick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - InstallBrick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - RepairClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stove+3 more

Serving Oakboro, NC and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Very Professional and they did a Great job! 5 out of 5 Stars!!"

+28

Response time12 hrs

Response rate100%

Clean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimneyClean and Inspect a gas fireplace

Serving Oakboro, NC and surrounding areas

Approved (Corporate)

In business since 2010

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Home Service is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

184 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Ccs handyman

New to Angi

Clean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stoveClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney

Serving Oakboro, NC and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

My names Cayden Shadoan, I’m 23 years old. I have a beautiful wife and daughter. I have a full time job as a pipe welder in Sumter South Carolina. I’m on here just looking to pick up a couple extra jobs here and there in hopes of starting my own business one day to be able to stay home with my family more. I can do pretty much anything that needs done in or around your house. Specializing in building fences or repairing fences, any kind of piping jobs, or any welding. Thank you for considering me to help you get what you need done. Hope to see you soon.

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Mr carpentry and cleaning services

New to Angi

Clean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stoveClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney

Serving Oakboro, NC and surrounding areas

Approved

Hola, soy Michael Rivera Hago limpieza post-construction en Charlotte (3 fases: rough, final, puff).\nTrabajo con inversionistas у builders dejando casas listas para vender o rentar.\n¿Tienes alguna propiedad que necesite limpieza\nesta semana?\nTambién hacemos limpiezas en Air BnB con un muy buen precio y un trabajo espectacular

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Allison Rohrbeck

New to Angi

Clean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stoveClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney

Serving Oakboro, NC and surrounding areas

Approved

I am a really hard worker. I have experience with many different jobs. I love helping people and making people's life easier and happier!

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Landen

New to Angi

Clean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stoveClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney

Serving Oakboro, NC and surrounding areas

Approved

Hello my name is Landen Hollis, and I have 2+ years of a combination of Commercial and Residential work. I have built homes from the ground up, including concrete work, framing, insulating, final work, ETC. I’m here looking to find additional work and grow my network.

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Top Notch Supreme Cleaning Service

New to Angi

Clean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stoveClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney

Serving Oakboro, NC and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Small jobs welcome

Reliable, detail-oriented cleaning services for residential and commercial spaces. We specialize in new construction, move-in/move-out, and Airbnb turnover cleanings—delivering spotless results you can see and feel every time. We don’t just clean—we restore, refresh, and reset your space.

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...

Showing 1-10 of 92

Fireplaces FAQs, answered by experts

Costs range from $3,500 to $15,000, depending on material, labor, and design complexity.

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.

Yes, you should seal and cap an unused chimney to protect it from damage. Sealing the structure helps prevent moisture damage, which can lead to issues like cracks, spalling, efflorescence, and damaged mortar joints. Capping the chimney is also crucial to prevent blockages, damage from invasive critters, and downdrafts, while still allowing for proper air ventilation to manage moisture. For the best results, consult a chimney professional to select the right type of chimney or flue cap for your home. It's also wise to continue with annual chimney inspections to maintain the structure's integrity.

Compared to certain types of firewood like pine or spruce—which burn off sticky resin contained within the wood that creates lots of smoke—elm isn’t the worst option for burning in a fireplace.

Because elm wood is dense, it burns at a moderate pace and does a pretty good job of keeping your home warm. Hardwood like maple or oak may perform slightly better, but elm isn’t a bad choice overall.

A chimney liner is a good thing to invest in regardless of if you have issues or not. Chimney liners increase the safety of your fireplace. Without a chimney liner, the gasses that get emitted during burning could eventually damage the masonry and create a major fire hazard in your home.

The Oakboro, NC homeowners’ guide to fireplace services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Angi
•
Sep 18, 2026Sep 18, 2026
How Much Does Brick or Stone Fireplace Installation Cost in Charlotte, NC? [2026 Data]
Find out the average brick or stone fireplace installation cost in Charlotte, NC. Learn what you can expect to pay for materials and labor for this project.
Haley Nothstein
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does a Gas Fireplace Inspection Cost? [2026 Data]
With a gas fireplace, it’s important to stay up-to-date on your inspections. Learn more about how much gas fireplace inspections cost before you book one.
Melissa Graham
•
Oct 7, 2026Oct 7, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Fireplace? [2026 Data]
The average cost to remove a fireplace is $4,500, but your overall cost will depend on the type of fireplace, its condition, and other factors.
Barbara Bellesi Zito
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
Can You Install a Fireplace Without a Chimney?
Find out if you really need a chimney to install a fireplace in your home. This guide helps you understand your options, such as a ventless fireplace, when choosing the right fireplace for your home if you don't have a chimney.
Kate Fann
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
Who Do You Hire for a Fireplace Remodeling Project?
Wondering who to hire for a fireplace remodel? You have a few options, and we've rounded them up to help you make the best decision.
Barbara Bellesi Zito
•
Jul 8, 2026Jul 8, 2026
11 Parts of a Fireplace You Should Know
There are many working parts of a fireplace, and a basic understanding of their functions can help homeowners properly maintain all of them over time.