Factory-built and masonry fireplaces installed in Lorna Doone

Where the combustion air may come from

Section R1006.2 requires the exterior air intake to be capable of supplying all combustion air from outside the dwelling or from spaces within it that are ventilated with outdoor air, such as nonmechanically ventilated crawl or attic spaces. The E-series manual adds its own warnings: never draw outside air from a garage, where engine exhaust collects.

It also warns against drawing air from attic spaces, basements or above the roofing where other appliances, fans or chimneys exhaust. We place the inlet with those limits in mind and show you its location on the outside wall at the planning visit.

Keeping the new fireplace dry during construction

A fireplace delivered to an open framing job can sit in the rain if nobody plans for it. One maker cautions against exposing its fireplace to the elements and asks that it be kept dry at all times, noting that wet insulation will produce an odor when the fireplace is used.

We schedule delivery for when the unit can go under cover, and a roof opening is closed at the end of each working day. Those small steps keep the first fire from smelling like a wet attic.

How a fireplace installation estimate should read

A clear fireplace estimate separates the fireplace unit, the chimney system and its roof parts, the framing or chase, the hearth extension, the face finish, removal of any old unit, the outside air supply, permit fees and any electrical work by an electrician.

Every line carries upfront pricing with no hidden fees, so you can compare our proposal fairly and see exactly where the money goes. Book within 72 hours after the inspection and 10% off is applied right on the estimate.

• Fireplace model and accessories from its manual
• Chimney sections, firestops, shield and cap
• Framing, chase and roof opening
• Hearth extension and face finish
• Removal of the old unit
• Permit and inspection coordination

Throat and smoke chamber in a new masonry fireplace

Above the firebox of a masonry fireplace, the throat narrows to the damper and the smoke chamber tapers into the flue. Their shape decides how smoke is gathered and sent up the chimney.

We build these parts to the code's shape and keep their surfaces smooth, because rough or badly shaped smoke chambers slow the draft and gather soot. They are hidden once the chimney is finished, so they have to be right as they are laid, course by course.