Blackburns Chimney Services – Professional Chimney Inspection, Sweep & Repair
Superior gas fireplace in a living room.

COLUMBUS, OH · SINCE 1986

Professional Fireplace, Insert & Gas & Wood Stove Installation

Blackburns Chimney Services installs fireplaces, 
fireplace inserts, and stoves with precision 
and care throughout Columbus, Dublin, 
Westerville, and more. 

Certified technicians. Flawless installations. 
Years of reliable performance.

A wood fireplace insert by Jotul.

YOUR INSTALLATION JOURNEY

3 Steps to Fireplace Installation With Blackburns

At Blackburns, we simplify a complex home improvement project into a streamlined digital-to-physical workflow - making it easy to go from browsing options to enjoying a professionally installed fireplace in your home.

1

Digital Selection

Use our interactive catalog to browse fireplaces, inserts, and stoves. Compare options side-by-side and generate an immediate online estimate from the comfort of your home.

2

Expert Validation

Schedule a professional in-home appointment so our certified technicians can verify site requirements, such as flue size, clearances, venting paths, and gas line readiness, before any work begins.

3

Certified Installation

Our certified team performs the full installation to code, handles permits and inspections, and walks you through the proper operation of your new unit.

From your first click to your first fire, Blackburns guides you every step of the way, delivering a safer, more efficient, and designed-to-you fireplace.

professional installation

Can I Install My Own Fireplace?

No, this is not recommended. DIY fireplace installation could result in inefficiency, a voided warranty, and serious dangers to your household. A properly installed fireplace or stove performs as intended, stays safer for everyday use, and enhances your home's value and comfort. At Blackburns, our fireplace installation expertise ensures every detail is right.

Safety First

Correct clearances, venting, etc. helps to prevent carbon monoxide leaks, fire risks, and more.

Optimal Performance

Proper flue sizing and sealing means better draft, reliable ignition, and efficient heat output.

Code Compliance

We follow industry standards and local building codes - all critical for permits, inspections, and resale.

Long-Term Value

The right installation results in fewer repairs, longer equipment life, and a fireplace that lasts decades.

COMMON QUESTIONS

Fireplace Installation: Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a fireplace, insert, and stove?

Each option offers different aesthetics, performance, and installation requirements. Choosing the right one depends on your home's existing setup, heating goals, and design preferences:

  • Traditional fireplace: This is a masonry or pre-fabricated firebox built directly into the home, and is best for new construction or remodels where you want the classic open-flame experience.
  • Fireplace insert: These are sealed, high-efficiency units that slides into an existing fireplace opening, making them ideal for upgrading an older, drafty fireplace into a powerful heat source - without major construction.
  • Stove: These freestanding units can be placed in nearly any room and don't require a chimney, as they can be vented through a wall or ceiling.

During your consultation, we'll evaluate your space, venting options, and heating needs to recommend the best fit.

Can you install a fireplace insert in my existing fireplace?

In most cases, yes - and it's one of the most cost-effective ways to dramatically improve heating performance. Before installation, we perform a full assessment to confirm your fireplace is ready, including:

  • Structural condition: Inspecting masonry, firebox, and damper for damage or deterioration
  • Sizing: Measuring the opening to identify inserts that fit properly and vent correctly
  • Venting & liner: Installing a stainless steel liner sized to the insert for safe, efficient operation
  • Sealing & insulation: Sealing the surround and insulating the liner to maximize heat output and efficiency

A properly installed insert can turn an inefficient, drafty fireplace into a reliable heat source that lowers energy costs and extends the life of your chimney system.

What's best for me: wood, gas, or electric?

The right choice depends on your home's layout, how you plan to use the fireplace, and how much hands-on upkeep you want:

  • Wood-burning: The classic hearth experience - crackling fire, natural wood smell, and a traditional look. Ideal if you want an authentic, hands-on fire. Requires a properly sized flue and chimney, regular cleaning and inspection to prevent creosote buildup, and works during power outages as a reliable backup heat source.
  • Gas: Convenient and easy to operate - most models light with a switch or remote. Produces consistent, controllable heat without storing or hauling wood, with lower maintenance than wood (no creosote or ash cleanup). Available in natural gas or propane and in direct-vent or natural-vent designs.
  • Electric: No venting or gas line required, so units can go nearly anywhere. Best suited for supplemental ambiance rather than primary heating, and a practical choice for condos, apartments, or rooms where venting isn't feasible.

Not sure which direction to go? We'll walk you through your options based on your home's layout, existing chimney system if applicable, and your heating and lifestyle goals - no pressure, just honest guidance.

Can fireplace insert installation be a DIY project?

No. We strongly recommend leaving fireplace insert installation to a certified professional. While inserts may look straightforward, improper installation can create serious safety hazards and void your warranty. DIY installation is risky because:

  • Venting and draft must be precisely sized and sealed - incorrect liner sizing can cause carbon monoxide leaks or chimney fires.
  • Gas line work requires a licensed technician and must meet local code; unpermitted work can result in fines and insurance issues.
  • Clearance to combustibles must follow manufacturer specs exactly to prevent house fires.
  • Manufacturer warranties typically require professional installation - DIY work voids coverage on most premium inserts.

Our certified technicians handle every aspect, from inspection and liner installation to gas hookup and final testing, so your insert operates safely, efficiently, and within warranty for years to come.

WHY CHOOSE US

Why Blackburns?

Camera-Assisted Inspections

We use specialized video cameras to examine the full flue - spotting cracks, blockages, and wear that a surface check would miss.

Early Damage Detection

We work hard to spot minor cracks and small leaks early, helping you avoid the expensive repairs that follow undiagnosed water damage.

Certified Technicians

Our team is dedicated to training and learning, always keeping up with the ever-changing best practices for the industry - you can see our certifications on our team page.

Real Estate Inspections

We provide the in-depth level 2 inspections that are required when buying or selling a home, ensuring nothing is missed during your transaction.

Honest, Transparent Reports

After every visit, expect a plain-language explanation and photo or video documentation of what we found.

Family-Owned, Columbus-Focused

We've been family-owned and locally-operated since 1986, serving Franklin, Delaware, and Union Counties.

Blackburns Chimney was wonderful to work with - on time, very pleasant, and easy to talk to. I had mentioned possibly wanting a new log set as the one we had was very undersized and extremely worn, so they left me some literature to review and gave me instruction on who to work with when I was ready.

Steve S.

Google

"Very professional experience. The technicians explained everything thoroughly. I plan on having Blackburns install a wood-burning insert this season."

John M.

Google

"Top notch service by knowledgeable and professional team to install a new wood-burning insert. I had them come back the day after initial install only to learn that the issue was on me and nothing to do with their work - no complaints/guilt, very understanding. Highly recommend!"

Eric G.

Google

"Blackburns' team was so friendly and knowledgeable. They answered all of my questions. The first time the tech was out to check our chimney chase he gave the kids a little piece of Santa's coat. It was a nice touch and it made their day. When he came back to install the chase he showed me the pictures of the job and he was just as friendly. I would definitely recommend Blackburns."

Eric J.

Google

WHERE WE WORK

Proudly Serving the Columbus Metro Area

Blackburns works with homeowners across Franklin, Delaware, and Union Counties - from historic Columbus neighborhoods to growing communities in Dublin, Westerville, Bexley, and beyond.

Columbus

New Albany

Gahanna

Pickerington

Pataskala

Westerville

Reynoldsburg

Blacklick

Canal Winchester

Grove City

Dublin

Hilliard

Powell

Lewis Center

Bexley

Worthington

Upper Arlington

Delaware

4644 Kenny Rd, Columbus, OH 43220

614-297-3870

Mon–Fri: 8am–5pm · Closed Sat & Sun

FROM OUR RESOURCES

Helpful Guides for Columbus Homeowners

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Who Should I Hire for a Chimney Inspection?

Thorough, camera-assisted chimney inspections tailored to local homes and weather.

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Red brick chimney with chimney cap

Top 3 Reasons to Choose Blackburns Chimney Services

Expertise, a mess-free experience, and honest communication - here's what sets our sweeps apart.

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How Often Should I Have My Chimney Cleaned?

Expert guidance on chimney maintenance schedules and how often your chimney needs cleaning.

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Hearing Sounds in Your Chimney?

Strange noises coming from your chimney? Learn what causes chimney sounds and when to call a professional.

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GET IN TOUCH

Ready for a Safer, Better-Performing Fireplace?

Schedule your installation or request a consultation. Our certified team serves Columbus and the surrounding area Monday through Friday.

Mon–Fri: 8am–5pm · Closed Sat & Sun

614-297-3870

Interested in learning more about about us and why locals rely on Blackburns? Reach out today.

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