Help! Chimney fire & everything needs to be replaced

[Irishroses]

So, noticed flames coming out of the chimney, thank goodness nothing more happened. Anyways, called to have my chimney cleaned as I was worried about creosote. When chimney sweepers came out, they confirmed there was a chimney fire and that the whole thing needed to be replaced, fireplace, flue etc... Was told that if I had cleaned my unit on a regular basis (every year) that this would not happen. This unit is only 4 years old and I have had it cleaned professionally every year, last cleaning was in Feb of 2017. Anyways, with all things being said I need to find a replacement and really dont have a warm and fuzzy about getting the same exact model. I did all the right things, used seasoned oak wood, no chemicals, had a blower, cleaned it out every year, etc...

So I'm trying to understand the different kinds of fireplaces, when we had this one built 4 years ago it was a nightmare because I couldnt find any fireplaces in person to really see them, plus I was given bad information like my house was too small for a heatilator and that would roast us out. Hindsight I realize the person didnt know what they were talking about. My house is 3700 sq feet, open concept AND I have a 2 story balcony/foyer.

In doing research I see there are woodburning fireplaces and woodburning fireplace inserts, are they not the same, or is one an after install/market thing? I know I am limited by my size opening and the stones, not sure if I am limited by the mantel as well or not. I seriously need some help and direction here.

We live by the VA/NC border near the coast. We had wide variety of temperatures here and it can get pretty cold, down in the 20's,30's and 40's. Ideally, I would love to have one that could heat the house or at least the lower level. We love wood burning fireplaces, especially being from Maine. No there is not room for a woodburning stove, nor would my family want to have one. Our opening from side to side is not quite 45 and top to bottom is 37.5. Now that should actually be more, but the previous installers built the granite covering the bottom part of the fireplace. So, with that part being said, I also would like recommendations for fireplace contractors in this area. I will NOT ever use the previous company again, nor do I suggest anyone else does. I want one that has the glass doors and a blower. Happy to answer any questions anyone might have. Plus what can I do to avoid NeVER having a chimeny fire EVER AGAIN.

 

[begreen]

So sorry to hear this. It's surprising that you have had a chimney fire already seeing the fireplace was cleaned fairly recently. Was the wood that was burned poorly seasoned? That is the usual cause for creosote buildup. If a hot blazing fire follows after several smokey smoldering fires, then that hot fire can ignite the creosote build up. The best way to prevent this is to insist only seasoned wood and to refuse any wood delivery that isn't seasoned. This means testing a few pieces of wood from the load for moisture content before accepting delivery. Eastern hardwood typically need 2-3 yrs seasoning, ash being the exception.

Was the person that did the sweeping a certified sweep? Did you get a chimney status report in Feb. 2107?

 

[Woodsplitter67]

Sweeping once a year may noy be enough, depending on how you burn and how much you burn. I sweep twice a year. Some sweep once a month with there owne gear

 

[saewoody]

Sorry to hear about the fire and everything needing to be replaced. If you are looking to heat with the new unit, I would definitely recommend a wood stove insert. I believe it would do a great job heating your home based on your description. Best of luck.


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[bholler]

Sorry to hear about the fire and everything needing to be replaced. If you are looking to heat with the new unit, I would definitely recommend a wood stove insert. I believe it would do a great job heating your home based on your description. Best of luck.


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They cannot use an insert without a working fireplace. What they want is a modern high efficiency fireplace. But I doubt that any will fit the opening perfectly.

 

[bholler]

So, noticed flames coming out of the chimney, thank goodness nothing more happened. Anyways, called to have my chimney cleaned as I was worried about creosote. When chimney sweepers came out, they confirmed there was a chimney fire and that the whole thing needed to be replaced, fireplace, flue etc... Was told that if I had cleaned my unit on a regular basis (every year) that this would not happen. This unit is only 4 years old and I have had it cleaned professionally every year, last cleaning was in Feb of 2017. Anyways, with all things being said I need to find a replacement and really dont have a warm and fuzzy about getting the same exact model. I did all the right things, used seasoned oak wood, no chemicals, had a blower, cleaned it out every year, etc...

So I'm trying to understand the different kinds of fireplaces, when we had this one built 4 years ago it was a nightmare because I couldnt find any fireplaces in person to really see them, plus I was given bad information like my house was too small for a heatilator and that would roast us out. Hindsight I realize the person didnt know what they were talking about. My house is 3700 sq feet, open concept AND I have a 2 story balcony/foyer.

In doing research I see there are woodburning fireplaces and woodburning fireplace inserts, are they not the same, or is one an after install/market thing? I know I am limited by my size opening and the stones, not sure if I am limited by the mantel as well or not. I seriously need some help and direction here.

We live by the VA/NC border near the coast. We had wide variety of temperatures here and it can get pretty cold, down in the 20's,30's and 40's. Ideally, I would love to have one that could heat the house or at least the lower level. We love wood burning fireplaces, especially being from Maine. No there is not room for a woodburning stove, nor would my family want to have one. Our opening from side to side is not quite 45 and top to bottom is 37.5. Now that should actually be more, but the previous installers built the granite covering the bottom part of the fireplace. So, with that part being said, I also would like recommendations for fireplace contractors in this area. I will NOT ever use the previous company again, nor do I suggest anyone else does. I want one that has the glass doors and a blower. Happy to answer any questions anyone might have. Plus what can I do to avoid NeVER having a chimeny fire EVER AGAIN.
View attachment 202144

Is there acess to the back of the fireplace to remove the old unit and put the new one in?

 

[saewoody]

They cannot use an insert without a working fireplace. What they want is a modern high efficiency fireplace. But I doubt that any will fit the opening perfectly.

Forgive my ignorance, but what is the difference structurally between a “working fireplace” and a “modern high efficiency fireplace”?

They can use a “modern high efficiency fireplace” without a working fireplace?

I was working under the assumption that the chimney, fireplace, etc. would be repaired.

Just trying to get more educated and be more informed. Thanks.

 

[bholler]

Forgive my ignorance, but what is the difference structurally between a “working fireplace” and a “modern high efficiency fireplace”?

They can use a “modern high efficiency fireplace” without a working fireplace?

I was working under the assumption that the chimney, fireplace, etc. would be repaired.

Just trying to get more educated and be more informed. Thanks.

That modern high efficiency fireplace would take the place of the damaged fireplace that needs replaced. To use an insert they would have to replace their existing fireplace and chimneyveith a new one that is approved to have an insert installed in it. Then they would need to buy the insert and an insulated liner. The first option would be cheaper and work better.

 

[webby3650]

A high efficiency fireplace will heat like a woodstove, but look more like a traditional fireplace. Your current Fireplace would have to be removed, if there’s access to the back side of it it’s possible your stone won’t need to be completely removed. Most likely though, to replace the fireplace some of the stone will need removed and the opening reframed.

An insert can only be used in a properly functioning fireplace, most often a masonry Fireplace is necessary. Which you do not have anyway.

 

[electrathon]

4 years old and EVERYTHING needs replaced... You might try a second opinion. By the sound of it you seem to have had a chimney fire, but not a massive fire that almost leveled the house. Possibly a repair if something may be needed, but EVERYTHING? The fireplace may still be fully functional and just the chimney was harmed.

 

[bholler]

4 years old and EVERYTHING needs replaced... You might try a second opinion. By the sound of it you seem to have had a chimney fire, but not a massive fire that almost leveled the house. Possibly a repair if something may be needed, but EVERYTHING? The fireplace may still be fully functional and just the chimney was harmed.

It is not uncommon at all with this type of fireplace. But a second opinion is not a bad idea

 

[saewoody]

That modern high efficiency fireplace would take the place of the damaged fireplace that needs replaced. To use an insert they would have to replace their existing fireplace and chimneyveith a new one that is approved to have an insert installed in it. Then they would need to buy the insert and an insulated liner. The first option would be cheaper and work better.

Thanks for the clarification. When I think fireplace, I think of a traditional masonry fireplace. It’s all I’ve ever known as far as fireplaces go.


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[electrathon]

It is not uncommon at all with this type of fireplace. But a second opinion is not a bad idea

Not uncommon to have a 4 year lifespan or not uncommon for one to fail entirely after a small fire? I am not a fan of fireplaces so I really have always just viewed them as the place to install the stove.

 

[bholler]

Not uncommon to have a 4 year lifespan or not uncommon for one to fail entirely after a small fire? I am not a fan of fireplaces so I really have always just viewed them as the place to install the stove.

Well first off how do you know the severity of the fire?? But it is not uncommon for this type of fireplace to be damaged by a chimney fire to the point of needing replacement.

 

[bholler]

Thanks for the clarification. When I think fireplace, I think of a traditional masonry fireplace. It’s all I’ve ever known as far as fireplaces go.


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Yes but that is not what this poster has

 

[electrathon]

Well first off how do you know the severity of the fire?? But it is not uncommon for this type of fireplace to be damaged by a chimney fire to the point of needing replacement.

So, noticed flames coming out of the chimney, thank goodness nothing more happened. Anyways, called to have my chimney cleaned as I was worried about creosote. When chimney sweepers came out, they confirmed there was a chimney fire

It was an assumption off the basis that she had the sweep come out to sweep creosote and they confirmed there was a fire. If it was big/severe, I would think that most wood burners would know it was big on fire, or the fire department would have told her.

I come from a position of total lack of understanding on these kind of fireplaces, but I would figure that they are able to handle flame as long as it is not out of control.

 

[bholler]

It was an assumption off the basis that she had the sweep come out to sweep creosote and they confirmed there was a fire. If it was big/severe, I would think that most wood burners would know it was big on fire, or the fire department would have told her.

I come from a position of total lack of understanding on these kind of fireplaces, but I would figure that they are able to handle flame as long as it is not out of control.

They said they saw flames shooting out the top that is a fairly significant fire. And yes they can handle a fire this one did and did its job protecting the house. But it got damaged in the process. If it had been a masonry fb the box would almost certainly be ok but the clay tiles would be cracked and in need of replacement.

 

[bholler]

So, noticed flames coming out of the chimney, thank goodness nothing more happened. Anyways, called to have my chimney cleaned as I was worried about creosote. When chimney sweepers came out, they confirmed there was a chimney fire and that the whole thing needed to be replaced, fireplace, flue etc... Was told that if I had cleaned my unit on a regular basis (every year) that this would not happen. This unit is only 4 years old and I have had it cleaned professionally every year, last cleaning was in Feb of 2017. Anyways, with all things being said I need to find a replacement and really dont have a warm and fuzzy about getting the same exact model. I did all the right things, used seasoned oak wood, no chemicals, had a blower, cleaned it out every year, etc...

So I'm trying to understand the different kinds of fireplaces, when we had this one built 4 years ago it was a nightmare because I couldnt find any fireplaces in person to really see them, plus I was given bad information like my house was too small for a heatilator and that would roast us out. Hindsight I realize the person didnt know what they were talking about. My house is 3700 sq feet, open concept AND I have a 2 story balcony/foyer.

In doing research I see there are woodburning fireplaces and woodburning fireplace inserts, are they not the same, or is one an after install/market thing? I know I am limited by my size opening and the stones, not sure if I am limited by the mantel as well or not. I seriously need some help and direction here.

We live by the VA/NC border near the coast. We had wide variety of temperatures here and it can get pretty cold, down in the 20's,30's and 40's. Ideally, I would love to have one that could heat the house or at least the lower level. We love wood burning fireplaces, especially being from Maine. No there is not room for a woodburning stove, nor would my family want to have one. Our opening from side to side is not quite 45 and top to bottom is 37.5. Now that should actually be more, but the previous installers built the granite covering the bottom part of the fireplace. So, with that part being said, I also would like recommendations for fireplace contractors in this area. I will NOT ever use the previous company again, nor do I suggest anyone else does. I want one that has the glass doors and a blower. Happy to answer any questions anyone might have. Plus what can I do to avoid NeVER having a chimeny fire EVER AGAIN.
View attachment 202144

Have you submitted a report to your insurance company? This is fire damage and will be covered

 

[begreen]

Getting back to the OP, this is called a zero-clearance (ZC) or prefab fireplace. They come in various sizes with fitments like glass doors, andirons, etc.. The quality of these units varies from contractor grade and inexpensive to some nicer units with greater quality and detail. This is what you currently have. There is a distinct difference between your current ZC and an EPA certified fireplace. The latter is meant to be burned primarily with the doors closed and must burn dry wood. It is more of a heater than an open fireplace and more expensive because of greater insulation, a secondary burn system for greater efficiency, tighter air control, and a blower system. An EPA fireplace is going to provide more heat burning less wood and it will burn much cleaner. Do you know which style do you want to replace the current fireplace with?

 

[bholler]

Getting back to the OP, this is called a zero-clearance (ZC) or prefab fireplace. They come in various sizes with fitments like glass doors, andirons, etc.. The quality of these units varies from contractor grade and inexpensive to some nicer units with greater quality and detail. This is what you currently have. There is a distinct difference between your current ZC and an EPA certified fireplace. The latter is meant to be burned primarily with the doors closed and must burn dry wood. It is more of a heater than an open fireplace and more expensive because of greater insulation, a secondary burn system for greater efficiency, tighter air control, and a blower system. An EPA fireplace is going to provide more heat burning less wood and it will burn much cleaner. Do you know which style do you want to replace the current fireplace with?

Very good description but open fireplaces need dry wood also.

 

[Sodbuster]

Have you submitted a report to your insurance company? This is fire damage and will be covered

Was wondering the same thing, an adjuster, will explain what damage they see, although they are looking to save their company money. Using the rule of "always follow the money" the adjuster will say can be repaired, chimney guy will say needs to be replaced. Somewhere in the middle the truth is to be found.

 

[bholler]

Was wondering the same thing, an adjuster, will explain what damage they see, although they are looking to save their company money. Using the rule of "always follow the money" the adjuster will say can be repaired, chimney guy will say needs to be replaced. Somewhere in the middle the truth is to be found.

Most insurance companies accept our report with no issues. Some we have to submit it a couple times before they accept. And most adjusters are not qualified or equipt to evaluate chimneys. Which is why they call us.

 

[begreen]

Very good description but open fireplaces need dry wood also.

Yes, I tried to make that clear in the first response. Burning only dry wood is the first step toward avoiding chimney fires regardless of whether it's an open fireplace or a modern EPA fireplace. The latter is especially going to want dry wood to burn properly.

 

[bholler]

Yes, I tried to make that clear in the first response. Burning only dry wood is the first step toward avoiding chimney fires regardless of whether it's an open fireplace or a modern EPA fireplace. The latter is especially going to want dry wood to burn properly.

Yeah I see that sorry

 

[Irishroses]

In regards to the insurance company, they said I didnt have to go get a bunch of quotes, they just want one with the pictures and the estimates. And to just make sure it was with a company that I felt good about because I would be the one dealing with them.

This type of fireplace is my Option 1/First Choice

Ideally I would love to have either the Model 36 or 44 Elite fireplace by FireplaceExtrordinair. I love the arched, however it is also relative on how my current box is removed. If the stone is taken off of the front, then it opens up possibilities for me, if it is taken thru the back with the siding, then that changes everything. (broken link removed to http://www.fireplacex.com/DesignGallery/DesignGalleryDetail.aspx?d=wood-inserts)

I would like to of course have the biggest fireplace that my space will allow. Right now I currently have a 42.

This is one of their woodburning fireplace inserts vs the second one which is the regular fireplace. Same company.





The inserts seem to have the ability to come in both arched or rectangle, where from what I can see, the regular fireplace only comes in the arched. I am trying hard to understand the difference between the two, along with the pros and cons. Here's a picture of the rectangular version insert, which as you can see has the metal surround.




Option 2/ That they gave me would be with a Superior Fireplace with blower and an aftermarket decorative glass and frame put on. As we all know that doesnt generate much heat.

I am not sure what all the differences is between the extrordinair and the heatilator, but this is all I know for fireplaces so far. Limited selection around these parts.

I want something that is pretty, heats well and will fit my place and NOT totally break the bank (at least not forever.) Some of you have mentioned a moisture thingy, can you elaborate and give me details and suggestions so I dont have a repeat on this. One and done...........

Also, someone mentioned that on the prefab they usually last about 10 - 15 years, where does the extraordinair rate on that?

Totally confused and overwhelmed on all of this.......... And one other thing......... if I do remove the stone on the front and I do get the arched fx, what kind of curved stone would go with my current stone to be able to allow for it? First picture at the first post should be a picture of my fireplace. Any contractors suggested for this area or to have certain credentials? What to look for or stay away from?

Thank everyone and sorry for the 50 million questions.......