Possible Alcove project

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sumpnz

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May 16, 2011
68
Skagit County, WA
So, been lurking for while since posting a few years ago. Anyway, back then was thinking I would have to go with a high-effeciency fireplace to replace a gas fireplace in the family room. That was simply too expensive so didn't do anything.

Now SWMBO is more willing to consider a freestanding stove with an alcove.

Trying to get an idea what that will entail in terms of demolition, new framing, insulation, etc. Both $$ and time. I can do a lot of the necessary work myself, and there's family that will help (and refuse payment beyond being fed). So labor should be minimal costs. Also willing to entertain suggestions on particular stoves. I like the look of the stoves with feet more than pedestals (wife too). Doesn't need to heat the whole house either. This will be for backup heat, and ambiance.

Attached is picture of the spot. Total width of the bump out is 73.5", it's 108" tall, and 24.25" deep (exterior dimensions). There's a stone "hearth" that I assume would have to replaced anyway that comes 20" out from the drywall (1.75" thick).

Basic idea, I think, will be a U shaped alcove, probably lined with tile, maybe stone. Stove in the middle, of course. Probably close off the U a bit higher than the existing mantle, and replace said mantle with something actually attractive and in keeping with rest of the house's styles (basically no oak anywhere else, and more of a column's look). Be easier if the bump out didn't need to be extended, but not a huge deal if it does.

House, total, is 2869sf but 300-400 of that is an upstairs bonus room that probably will get warm enough without worrying about it. Location is 70miles north of Seattle. I have lots of big leaf maple, alder, birch and hemlock on my property. Some cedar, and cottonwoods, not that I'd burn the latter.

skagit.jpg
 
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Oh yeah, probably should also note that there is an existing exhaust pipe for the gas fireplace that goes straight up through the roof. Obviously that would have to be replaced with wood-rated pipe. But the run is established at least. Not sure how long that run is, but probably 20'.

As far as stoves that I think would pass muster asthetically, the Hearthstone Mansfield 8012, and Manchester 8360, and the Quadrafire Isle Royale and Yosemite would be good examples.

I think a total project cost that would make it possible to actually make this change would be $4-5k. Like I said, DIY for most of it is not a problem. I built out a garage conversion to a pool table room recently. We've done plenty of tile projects before too. Only thing I'd probably hire out would be the installation and hook of the stove itself, and that mostly for insurance purposes.
 
I'm wondering if you actually need an alcove. The wing walls may be extraneous, just to frame in the fireplace. If that is the case you might consider a nice hearth on a flat wall. There are less restrictions for clearances that way. It would also allow you to install a side-loading stove like the Jotul F500 if you want. Stop by The Chimney Sweep in Bellingham. He has most of the stoves you are looking at. It's a great stove shop. I would also take a look at the PE Alderlea T6 while there.
 
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Alcove would be for A) looks, and B) easy to block off with baby gates. 4 kids in the home, the 2 younger ones are 2.75 and 1.5 years old.

I'll see what SWMBO thinks though of your idea. It would be easier in a lot of ways.

If I get a chance I'll swing by that stove shop. I'm currently doing the evening MBA program at WWU, so I'm up in B'ham a couple times per week anyway.
 
Other factor to consider though is that the living room/play room has another gas fireplace in it and has a similar bump out design. Elminating the bump out completely wouldn't really flow as well with the rest of the house. Not a big deal to me, but it might be to my wife, or possibly a future prospective buyer of the house.
 
They make kid gates that surround the hearth. There are several threads on that topic here. It comes up several times a year. Search on "kid gate". Note in some threads there are parents don't worry too much about accidents near the stove. Most kids have an inherent sense of danger which can be reinforced by a stern No. Owweee! warning from parents.
https://www.hearth.com/talk/threads/best-protection-for-little-ones.111695/
https://www.hearth.com/talk/threads/keeping-toddlers-away-from-the-stove.77083/

When you get up to the shop ask for the owner Tom Oyen. He is a hearth.com member and a great guy. They stand behind what they sell.
http://www.chimneysweeponline.com/
 
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