Newbie, can I use my existing fireplace cap when installing a SS liner, need your help, Thanks

[CajunInMs]

Hi to all. This is my first post. I've been trying to read as much as I can the last few days. Brain is starting to overload.

I see from what I read that you definitely need to install a liner when installing a fireplace insert. I have a Masonry fireplace with a Copper cap which I would like to keep. I've included some pics so you can tell me if it should work. Can I install the liner and keep my Copper cap on top. I may still be able to put the liner cap on top inside the copper cap. Sounds like I would then need to put a metal seal around the liner to keep air from moving around the liner. Any and all suggestions taken, please chime in. Does this sound like it will work? Also I measured from the top of the lip inside the copper cap to the top lip inside my fireplace at 20'. Would a 20' section of SS liner be enough, or do I need more. I plan on doing this myself, so your help is much appreciated. Do you use an insert adapter to connect the insert to the liner or do you connect the liner directly to the insert?

Also I live in South MS. Our winters aren't nearly as bad as most of you. Coldest temps usually around 20. Do I need to insulate the liner or would it be okay without if I seal off both ends on the fireplace flue. I look forward to hearing from a lot of you. hint.

Thanks a bunch in advance.

 

[edthedawg]

Funky looking cap! is that just copper sheet stock forming the "tent"?

I would say go for it so long as the following 3 apply:

1 - it seals the liner tightly to the top of the masonry chimney
2 - the resulting setup won't easily clog (lots of plugged screen caps this season mentioned here this year!)
3 - it can be serviced for cleaning without needing to be destroyed / damaged

Not sure if that's interior or exterior but you're in MS so either way I wouldn't likely get too crazy w/ insulating. Blockoff plates @ top (#1 above) and bottom (inside top of firebox) and you should be good to go.

 

[BrotherBart]

Use a terra cotta top plate for the liner. It will seal the chimney from water incursion around the liner and support the liner.

(broken link removed)

 

[DAKSY]

Can I install the liner and keep my Copper cap on top. I may still be able to put the liner cap on top inside the copper cap. Sounds like I would then need to put a metal seal around the liner to keep air from moving around the liner. Any and all suggestions taken, please chime in. Does this sound like it will work? Also I measured from the top of the lip inside the copper cap to the top lip inside my fireplace at 20'. Would a 20' section of SS liner be enough, or do I need more. I plan on doing this myself, so your help is much appreciated. Do you use an insert adapter to connect the insert to the liner or do you connect the liner directly to the insert?

You should be able to use you existing "cap," but it may interfere with getting a liner down the chimney...
If you buy a liner KIT - not just a liner - you should get a top plate, cap, 25 (or 35) feet of liner & a flex-to-rigid adapter (for connecting to the insert)...
You'll still need to block off the bottom of the chimney - AROUND the liner - with insulation or a plate...

 

[CajunInMs]

Thanks edthedawg and BB.

I don't plan on keeping the screen in it, it is just there for now with current setup. The chimney is exterior most of the way, except maybe 4 or 5' where it goes through the roof.

The terra-cotta cap looks great. Should I put a quick cap on top of the terra-cotta cap. I may be able to fit it all inside. If not, would it be okay with just the terra-cotta cap. Thanks

Tom

 

[edthedawg]

I would think a spark arrestor / screen would be a good idea, if not a code requirement in your area. wildfires happen there in the summer seasons ever?