New insert question

  • Active since 1995, Hearth.com is THE place on the internet for free information and advice about wood stoves, pellet stoves and other energy saving equipment.

    We strive to provide opinions, articles, discussions and history related to Hearth Products and in a more general sense, energy issues.

    We promote the EFFICIENT, RESPONSIBLE, CLEAN and SAFE use of all fuels, whether renewable or fossil.

Ghost5w20

New Member
Jan 8, 2026
3
Fillmore In
Greetings,
New to forum and hoping I can get some input about my new fireplace insert. After installation, I noticed I was getting quite a draft around side of stove going up into original chimney ( new stove has 6" flexible pipe ). There was a new metal chimney chase cover installed but not a block off plate at top of insert. I removed insert face plate and placed rock wool around the exterior of stove (pic attached). I checked with installer to get the okay with this and also reached out to insert manufacturer and got this response: "To reduce the possibility of a cold air back draft from the masonry chimney into the room, the installation of a sheet metal block-off plate (A) is recommended. In Canada, the CSA B365 Standard permits «Roxul» type wool to be stuffed around the liner as it passes through the throat area as an alternative to a sheet metal block-off plate. However, this method is less efficient than using a plate." I removed face plate this morning to inspect insulation, and everything looks the same as when installed. I'm not finding a lot online about doing what I did, and I'm concerned about doing possible damage to the stove.
Any information would be appreciated.
 

Attachments

  • [Hearth.com] New insert question
    IMG_1078.webp
    230.7 KB · Views: 5
Was Roxul used or is this fiberglass insulation? Insulation on the sides and back of the insert are good for reducing heat loss to the exterior masonry, but it's not recommended to be on the top of the stove. That could cause overheating and is not a substitute for a proper, insulated, block-off plate sealing off the damper area.
 
Mineral wool was used which is advertised safe up to 2000 degrees. I can remove top layer and place some in back. I don't know what kind of luck I'd have getting installer to pull insert to get a block off plate put in.
 
Mineral wool was used which is advertised safe up to 2000 degrees. I can remove top layer and place some in back. I don't know what kind of luck I'd have getting installer to pull insert to get a block off plate put in.
It's best to make it a requirement of the installation. It still can be done, if paid for.
 
It was never mentioned when estimate given. I'll reach out to them as they are making a return trip to install a fabricated face plate to cover stains on brick from old insert.
Thanks for information.
 
Last edited:
Estimates are often low as an attempt to be the low bidder and get the job. It's usually up to the purchaser to specify work required. The exception will be the company that provides 2 estimates (minimum and recommended) that clearly define the scope of work and differences.