Metal fireplace and chimney repair in Boggy Creek

Standoffs and clearance spacers on the unit

Factory-built fireplaces carry standoffs and clearance spacers on their outer casing, and one maker's parts list includes both as numbered parts. They hold framing and finishes at the distance the listing was tested with.

A bent or removed spacer lets material move closer to the hot casing. When the face of the fireplace is open for repair, we check the spacers we can reach and replace damaged ones.

• Standoffs on the casing
• Clearance spacers
• Framing and finish distances

Mantel clearances on a factory-built fireplace

Each factory-built model sets its own mantel clearances. One maker's 36-inch model keeps combustible trim and mantels projecting from the face at least 12 inches from the opening, its larger models 18 inches, with further limits on anything that projects more than 1 1/2 inches.

A mantel added after the fireplace was installed is often the first thing we measure. If it sits closer than the manual allows, we show you the numbers and discuss moving it or changing its depth.

Grate retainers and firebox floors

Some factory-built fireplaces use grate retainers fastened near the back of the firebox floor to hold the grate in its intended position. One maker's instructions fix them with masonry screws and specify its own grate only.

A grate that slides forward sends burning logs toward the opening and the screen. We refit missing retainers and replace worn grates with the listed part for your model.

• Retainers fixed near the back of the floor
• The maker's grate for the model
• Grate held in its intended position

Accessories added to a prefab fireplace

A factory-built fireplace's manual limits which doors, screens, grates and inserts may be used with it, and the maker lists its own accessories by model. Add-ons from other sources need a close look against that manual.

Aftermarket fans, grate heaters and decorative panels come up often. We tell you which accessories fit your model and which ones to remove before the next fire.

• Doors approved for the model
• Screens and grates from the maker's list
• Inserts tested with the fireplace
• Add-ons to remove before the next fire