Preparation for fireplace insert installation

[joshtp]

I've had a fireplace insert in the garage since last December, and now that it's getting cold I really want to get it in this Saturday. I have all the tool and pieces, I just need to prep the fireplace. My question is how thorough do I have to be in cleaning the fireplace, repairing cracks, filling gaps, etc. Do I have to chip out and replace all loose mortar between the bricks? Do I have to scrub every surface free of creosote? The flue liner with insulation is zero clearance, so is a little bit of creosote really a problem? The flue itself has been swept, however there is some creosote in hard to reach places.

Here are some pictures of the current condition.

 

[bholler]

repairing cracks, filling gaps, etc. Do I have to chip out and replace all loose mortar between the bricks?

no need to repair cracks they will not be an issue once the insert is in there.

Do I have to scrub every surface free of creosote? The flue liner with insulation is zero clearance, so is a little bit of creosote really a problem? The flue itself has been swept, however there is some creosote in hard to reach places.

Yes you need to get the creosote off. That insulation is only zeroclearance to the outside of the masonry not to the insulation.

 

[joshtp]

no need to repair cracks they will not be an issue once the insert is in there.


Yes you need to get the creosote off. That insulation is only zeroclearance to the outside of the masonry not to the insulation.

Would brushing with a nylon brush be sufficient for the creosote? The flue itself seems clean, but there's some on the lintel and around the damper. Seems last time they got a cleaning they just ran a brush through the flue. Thanks.

 

[bholler]

Would brushing with a nylon brush be sufficient for the creosote? The flue itself seems clean, but there's some on the lintel and around the damper. Seems last time they got a cleaning they just ran a brush through the flue. Thanks.

It might be it might not be it all depends upon how dirty it is and what type of creosote is there