Manufactured Fireplaces 101

Manufactured fireplaces are a popular choice for homeowners because they're often less expensive and easier to install than traditional fireplaces.

These fireplaces are built in a factory using a combination of materials, including metal, glass, and stone.

They can be installed in a variety of locations, including existing fireplaces, as a direct vent system, or even as a wall-mounted unit.

Direct vent systems are a common type of manufactured fireplace installation, and they're known for their efficiency and safety features.

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Prefabricated fireplaces are manufactured metal fireplaces built offsite and installed by a chimney technician or contractor.

They are often installed in new homes as they are being constructed, which is why they became popular in ski areas like Vermont and New Hampshire.

Prefabs were especially appealing in these areas due to their quick installation time and low cost compared to traditional masonry fireplaces.

Many prefabricated fireplaces were installed during the 1960’s-1980’s in these areas.

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Prefab fireplaces can be a convenient and cost-effective option for homeowners, but they require regular maintenance to ensure safety and longevity.

Cracked refractory panels, leaking chase covers, rusted out fireboxes, and rusted out caps are common problems found in prefab fireplaces.

Preventing these issues is easy by having smaller fires and having your chimney inspected on an annual basis by a qualified chimney professional to prevent problems before they happen.

Even if a prefab fireplace is never used, it can still deteriorate over time.

The salt air from the ocean can be particularly damaging to prefab fireplaces, cutting their lifespan in half in areas near the ocean, such as San Diego County.

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Manufacturers go through expensive and extensive testing through the Underwriters Laboratory or other approved agency to get their prefab fireplace systems listed.

This testing is crucial because it involves evaluating the system with its specific components, ensuring they work together safely and efficiently.

The listing is important because if any components are changed out with non-manufacturer parts, it voids the listing on the entire system, transferring liability to the installer.

Prefab fireplace systems should not be modified against the manufacturer's specifications for safety and liability reasons.

The flue pipe in a prefab is made from metal, either a double wall or triple wall pipe, which can be seen looking up into the flue from the prefab firebox.

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A prefab fireplace's lifespan can range from 10-15 years, depending on usage and maintenance. If neglected, it can reduce its lifespan significantly.

Cracked refractory panels, leaking chase covers, and rusted out fireboxes are common problems with prefab fireplaces. These issues can be prevented by having smaller fires and annual inspections by a qualified chimney professional.

The proximity to the ocean can also affect a prefab fireplace's lifespan, cutting it in half in areas like San Diego County due to the salt air's corrosive effects.

Masonry fireplaces are built on-site, brick by brick, making them well-built systems with bricks and mortar.

A key component of masonry chimneys built after the 1940s is a pipe known as a flue lining.

In San Diego, the pipe in masonry chimneys is typically made from terra cotta (clay) or pumice.

The exterior chimney structure is typically made of stucco or siding.

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If you're looking for replacement parts for your prefab fireplace, you'll likely need to work with a chimney professional.

Most manufacturers of prefab fireplaces only sell parts to professionals, not directly to homeowners.

You can start by determining the manufacturer and model of your system, which will help the professional contact the manufacturer for the right parts.

Replacement parts, such as refractory panels, fireplace glass doors, and chimney caps, can be ordered through the manufacturer, but be aware that using non-factory parts can void the U.L. listing on the system.

Installing components that aren't from the manufacturer can also create liability issues in the event of fire damage caused by the fireplace.

In general, it's best to stick with manufacturer-approved parts to ensure the safety and functionality of your prefab fireplace.

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A prefab fireplace's lifespan can vary greatly depending on its use and maintenance.

On average, a prefab fireplace lasts around 10-15 years, but this can be reduced by abuse or neglect.

Proper maintenance, such as annual inspections, can help extend the life of a prefab fireplace.

Factors like proximity to the ocean, weather conditions, and over-firing the system can decrease its lifespan.

Some manufacturers and professionals estimate prefab fireplaces can last between 20-30 years, but this can vary depending on the location and usage.

In our experience, we've seen well-maintained systems last over 40 years, but some may need replacement after just 15 years.

Manufactured fireplaces are a great option for homeowners, but it's essential to use them safely and correctly. Most prefab fireplaces can be used with artificial gas logs, prefabricated logs, or well-seasoned wood.

Reading the operating instructions is crucial for homeowners to know how to safely operate their fireplace. Prefab fireplaces should be limited to small fires to avoid cracking the fragile refractory panels inside the firebox.

If you do experience a cracked refractory panel, be prepared for a costly replacement. The metal firebox behind the panels can also warp, making it difficult to fit new refractory panels.

Using a prefab fireplace requires some common sense and attention to safety. You can use it with artificial gas logs, prefabricated logs like Duraflames, or well-seasoned wood, but be sure to read the operating instructions first.

Most prefab fireplaces can't handle big fires or very hot fires, so it's best to limit them to small fires. Burning wood is okay, but only if you're burning just one Duraflame log's worth of wood.

The refractory panels inside the firebox are fragile and can crack if exposed to too much heat. If they do crack, replacing them can be expensive. Without these panels or with damaged ones, the metal firebox can get too hot and warp, making it hard to install new panels.

Prefabricated fireplaces are meant to be decorative, not to heat your home. They're designed for small ambient fires burned for short periods of time.

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Replacing a prefab fireplace requires replacing only the inner components, such as the firebox, flue pipe, chase cover, and cap, while reusing the existing chimney chase.

Intriguing read: Chase Fireplaces

The new firebox opening may not match the old one, which means the facade around the firebox opening might need to be updated as well.

In most cases, the facade needs to be removed first to access the prefab system for replacement.

This is why it's often recommended to replace the prefab fireplace at the same time as updating the facade.

The Fire N' Stone installation team has over 10 years of experience installing manufactured wood fireplaces of all makes and models.

They'll install your new wood-burning appliance correctly and safely, ensuring it complies with local fire-safety and building codes.

You can visit their 3,400-square-foot showroom at 539 Laconia Rd. in Tilton to see many running models and get all your questions answered.

They serve Tilton NH, Gilmanton NH, Belmont NH, Loudon NH, and all other Lakes Region communities.

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You can burn gas logs indoors in a prefab fireplace, but it's essential to check the manufacturer's operating instructions for your specific model of system.

In most cases, you can burn prefabricated logs, like Duraflame logs, or artificial gas logs.

The tag on your system may also indicate what types of fuel can be burned, so be sure to take a look.

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To prevent problems with your prefab fireplace, it's essential to have smaller fires and schedule an annual inspection with a qualified chimney professional. This can help catch issues before they become major problems.

Cracked refractory panels, leaking chase covers, rusted out fireboxes, and rusted out caps are common issues with prefab fireplaces. These problems can be costly to repair or replace.

In areas near the ocean, prefab fireplaces can deteriorate faster due to the salt air, even up to 10 miles inland. This can cut the lifespan of a prefab fireplace in half, making regular inspections even more critical.

If a part of a prefab fireplace becomes damaged, it can be replaced, but the part must be the same make and model as the fireplace in need of repair.

Many parts are no longer made, especially if the fireplace is over 20 years old, which means the chimney and fireplace may need to be completely replaced.

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The wrong components can cause overheating and lead to a house fire, so it's essential to use only UL-listed and tested parts.

Cracked refractory panels, leaking chase covers, rusted out fireboxes, and rusted out caps are common problems with prefab fireplaces.

These issues can be prevented by having smaller fires and having your chimney inspected annually by a qualified chimney professional.

Even if a prefab fireplace is never used, it can still deteriorate, and the salt air from the ocean can rust it out, cutting its lifespan in half.

A qualified chimney professional or a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep can help diagnose whether you have a masonry or prefab fireplace.

To find your prefab fireplace's manufacturer and model, look for a metal plate called a "tag" inside the firebox. It's usually the size of a business card and will list the manufacturer's name and model number.

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New homeowners can also check the operating/installation instructions left by the contractor for this information. It's essential to keep track of this important info.

The manufacturer's tag is the most reliable way to determine your prefab fireplace's identity, so make sure to locate it and take note of the details.

When remodeling a prefab fireplace, it's essential to consider the potential need for a new prefab fireplace altogether. Many homeowners don't realize that prefab fireplaces can be at the end of their lifespan, making expensive facade installations pointless.

Installing a new facade without addressing the underlying prefab fireplace can lead to costly removals down the line. So, it's crucial to inspect and maintain your prefab fireplace annually with a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep.

You can safely enjoy your fireplace and maximize its lifespan by following this simple maintenance routine, which will also help you plan for potential future replacements.

Remodeling your prefab fireplace can be a bit tricky, and it's easy to overlook the fact that the prefab unit itself may already be nearing the end of its lifespan.

The cost of installing a new facade can be very expensive, so it's worth considering replacing the prefab fireplace altogether.

Annual inspections and maintenance by a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep are essential to safely enjoying your fireplace and getting the most out of its lifespan.

Timing your remodel to coincide with a new prefab fireplace installation can save you money and hassle in the long run.

Modern wood fireplaces are a game-changer for any home, offering a unique blend of nostalgia and eco-friendliness. They're a great way to heat your home, and today's prefab models are ultra-safe and easy to install.

You can place a modern wood fireplace virtually anywhere in your home, as long as there's a place to run the vent pipe. This makes them perfect for safe zone heating in kitchens, bedrooms, dens, and other rooms.

Related reading: Show Me Electric Fireplaces

Modern prefab wood fireplaces are heavy-duty and high heat producers, allowing for more complete combustion of logs while reserving the majority of heat produced for use in your home. This means you'll enjoy up to 80% of the heat generated, compared to traditional masonry fireplaces which only hold onto 10% or 20% of the heat.

With modern wood fireplaces, you can enjoy the ambiance of a real wood fire without the hassle of building a chimney. Their own venting system makes installation a breeze, and many homeowners purchase smaller units for added convenience.

Here are some benefits of modern wood fireplaces:

Whether you're looking for a traditional or modern design, there's a prefab wood fireplace to suit your tastes. From corner fireplaces to linear fireplaces, the options are endless, and you can choose a style that complements your home's décor.