prefabricated fireplace, metal fireplace, zero clearance fireplace
Prefabricated fireplaces, sometimes called zero
clearance fireplaces, usually have dampers in the chimney inlet.
Look up inside the fireplace and learn how to open and close the damper.
Often prefabricated fireplaces will have shallow throats. Be sure the
screen and glass doors are closed during use of the fireplace to prevent
embers from popping out onto the floor. Usually, there is a knock out
plug for a gas line to enter the fire box. This hole must be sealed with
a material able to withstand heat if a gas line is run through it. A
fire clay type material is available at most fireplace dealers. Keep
some tightly packed around the gas line, if there is one, where it
penetrates the fire box. Warning: prefabricated manufacturer's
specifications vary from unit to unit. The inspector will not be able to
comment on clearances, fire-stop applications, hearth or mantle
extensions, whether the chimney vent cap is properly sized or affixed,
etc., without these specifications. Should you desire further
information on these subjects, contact the seller, installer, or
manufacturer in an attempt to obtain the specifications. If the
specifications are located, the inspector can return to ascertain
whether the installation guidelines have been followed. Site-built
fireplaces ordinarily are constructed of brick or block. Some have metal
prefabricated fire boxes and are complex in construction. Most are
simple with few or no moving parts other than the damper. Although the
average wood-burning fireplace is not very efficient as a primary source
of heat, it is still an extremely popular feature with home owners for
its aesthetic value, and for the warmth and pleasure that can be derived
from watching a crackling fire on a winter night. But a fireplace that
smokes incessantly and spews flying embers out into the room, or one
which just will not keep a fire burning after it is lit, is hardly a
pleasure. In fact, it is of little use to anyone, either for practical
or aesthetic reasons. That is why it pays to learn how to use your
fireplace properly and take steps to correct any defects which make it
smoke or burn poorly. A well designed fireplace will have a smoke shelf
directly behind or above the damper (at the base of the flue). This
serves a very definite purpose, in that it deflects or turns back down
drafts so that they do not blow smoke out into the room; instead, the
smoke is sucked back into the upward draft and up the chimney.