PRE FABRICATED FIREPLACE UNIT REPAIR
Premanufactured fireplace repair can become an issue for a homeowner after
several years of using a fireplace. Prefabricated firebox repair can be
costly—if you don’t approach it in the right way. In order
to ensure that you will be able to keep your prefabricated fireplace in
good repair, it’s important that you first have a good working understanding
of the fireplace itself.
A Newcomer on the Scene
Prefabricated fireplaces are a relatively new phenomenon. In fact, they’ve
been available on the market only for about the last 25 years. These fireplaces
are often composed of metal and are manufactured as complete units with
a firebox and a chimney system.
Keep in mind that a prefabricated fireplace and chimney are a complete system
made to work efficiently in tandem. In order to be safe, you need to use
the specific chimney indicated.
Installation is Key
In order to have an effective unit, it’s important that installation
directions are followed precisely. For instance, you’ll want to make
sure that the firebox and chimney have sufficient clearance from any combustible
materials. The majority of manufacturers demand two inches of air space
between the chimney components and wood framing. Also, if you are putting
in a new unit, make sure the clearance directions are adhered to strictly.
Wood that is too close to the chimney can catch fire at temperatures as
low as 200 degrees. More than half of the units that have been inspected
by chimney professionals are actually improperly installed, which could
lead to maintenance problem.
Remember-It's a Decoration!
With prefabricated fireplaces, you have to keep in mind that they are
considered to be decorative heating appliances. Therefore, they cannot
withstand the rigors normally applied to masonry fireplaces. Overfiring
can actually severely damage a manufactured fireplace unit. In order to
prevent problems, it’s important to engage in routine yearly maintenance.
The fireplace unit should be cleaned when there’s a buildup of 1/8”.
As long as you monitor your unit carefully, you should get a great deal
of use out of it—and you should be able to keep maintenance troubles
at bay. |
