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>

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Verified Reviews for Fire Pit Installation pros in Columbia, VA

*The Angi rating for Fire Pit Installation companies in Columbia, VA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Fire Pit Installation needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Fire Pit Installation companies in Columbia, VA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Fire Pit Installation needs.

Last update on June 01, 2026

Reviewed in June 2026
We are still in the install process, customer service and sales associate far in above the rest, I will resubmit about experience once project is complete.
Long Home
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Reviewed in October 2025
Ben arrived right on schedule and was extremely engaging, explaining his process in layman?s terms. I was nervous about how the finished product would look with pipes being installed, but was so happy with the finished product. A totally professional installation! Highly recommend this Veteran...
TOPS RADON
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Reviewed in January 2025
I knew that we would be using this company from my first contact with Robin. Billy came out for our quote and was friendly, professional and knowledgeable. The installation was done quickly and efficiently. The workers were friendly and the finished product was beautiful. All remnants of the...
DanDale Fence
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Reviewed in June 2023
They responded quickly to my request and the generator was installed within 2 weeks. Generator Superstore did it all, from getting the permits, gas company and electrician.
Generator Supercenter of Richmond
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Reviewed in August 2022
The installation guys put drop cloths down over my carpet from the entry door to the inside HVAC unit to keep from getting my carpet dirty. The installers were polite, professional and worked hard; never stopping to take a break. They cleaned up everything and did a great job. Tim Griffin...
ARS of Virginia
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Reviewed in August 2022
The owner Jerry came out quickly when we called, he was friendly, and did a thorough job testing and explaining what he offers. After getting a quote from him and one other and doing my own research and water testing, I found Jerry to be more accurate with my research and testing. His quote...
Best Water VA, LLC
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Reviewed in July 2022
On time and professional installation. All around good service.
Aire Serv of Southwest Connecticut
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Reviewed in October 2021
Extremely knowledgeable, absolute professionals, perfect install work as well. So thankful we contacted them! A+
Virginia Environmental Resources
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Reviewed in May 2021
These guys are true professionals: knowledgeable, personable and conscientious. I had some unusual issues with my new wood stove that might have prevented a normal company from installing it , but these guys thought outside the box and persisted until they got it done to their high standards. I...
Honeycutt Chimney Sweeping and Inspection
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Reviewed in July 2020
Very well. I installed a mini-split and needed a vacuum pulled on the charged lines to fire it up. The whole process was quick! Regular maintenance on my other two systems has been easy to schedule and get checked out each season.
Air Nerds LLC
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Fire Pit Installation questions, answered by experts

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.

If you plan to put a fire pit on a grassy area, be sure to put compacted paver sand down first to help level out the ground and add better heat protection. If you’re placing a fire pit on hardscaping, like a concrete patio, consider placing a fire pit mat down first. This can add more protection from the heat and also protect the look of your hardscaping if you choose to remove the fire pit in the future.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) says you can place smoke detectors on either the ceiling or the wall, depending on the setup of your room. Since smoke rises, the ceiling makes sense, but if you go with a wall mounting, the alarm should be installed high up—no less than 12 inches from the ceiling.

Installing a spark arrestor on your home’s chimney is an essential task. It reduces fire risk and ensures your chimney is compliant for insurance and building code purposes. Not having a spark arrestor could invalidate your home insurance or cause snags when it comes to a house sale.

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.

The Columbia, VA homeowners’ guide to fire pit installation services

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