Is this hole repairable?

[Devondavis2]

Hi all,

I recently purchased an older home that had the wood burning fireplace converted to gas. I had it inspected to ensure it was safe to convert back to wood. I have removed the gas line but, I don't know how to fix the hole left behind in the metal insert.

 

[begreen]

Is this a Zero Clearance fireplace or a heatform style (aka heatilator) metal fireplace?

 

[joop]

weld a plate on

 

[begreen]

weld a plate on

Depends on the thickness of the metal and whether this gets covered with a refractory panel. If it's a ZC with sheet metal under refractory then the metal may be thin. In that case pop riveting a patch may be easier and better?

 

[Devondavis2]

The metal is about 3mm thick and doesn't have refractory panels. I'm not sure if it is Zero Clearance fireplace or a heatform. I'm thinking welding in a patch may be the best option. I'll attach a photo of the exterior.

 

[begreen]

It looks like a heatform style with the lower intakes and upper heat register. Welding is fine, so would screwing a small plate in place work.