newbie, custom insert surround question

[matlocc]

I wan to save some money and build my own surround for a regency i2400 insert. The company wants 215 dollars for their kit. I was thinking of using sheet steel or possibly cement board. Has anyone done this? I would like to keep it safe and under 100 dollars.

Chuck

 

[Fsappo]

I have built extensions before out of 22ga sheet metal using a break, etc. Safety wouldn't be my concern. Subbing a component with a non UL listed fabbed piece may be something you want to look into. How nice do you want it to look when your done?

 

[begreen]

Maybe consider just running the insert in the fireplace without the surround? Some folks have done this for the extra heat. Put in a block-off plate, especially if this is an exterior wall chimney.

 

[Grisu]

As long as you have a block off plate ( https://www.hearth.com/talk/wiki/make-a-damper-sealing-block-off-plate/ ) the surround is just cosmetics. Anything non-combustible should be fine but I would certainly prefer sheet metal over cementboard.

 

[matlocc]

Thanks, I think I am going to have a furnace guy bend some sheet metal for me. Wife want's it pretty.