Questions about prefab fireplace removal

[Lakersfan8]

Hello,

I had a prefab fireplace removed. The flue pipe was left in and the chase cover at the top closed off the chimney. There was a bottom vent left there. I noticed some water on the underside of the fire stop.
Is it recommended to close off the vent here? To stop the flow of cold air?

Next, is it recommended to remove the flue pipe? Dont plan on putting a fireplace back, going to close it with drywall.

 

[DAKSY]

While it’s accessible, I would remove the venting, mainly to find out exactly where that water penetration was, & to seal any leaks to prevent further damage. I would also remove the fresh air pipe at the lower right. There’s no need to have a hole in the wall of your home if it’s not needed.

 

[Eman85]

Removing would be best, water could be condensation.

 

[cahaak]

I completely stripped my prefab out, including the entire flue. I put my wood stove in in an alcove installation and used the fresh air pipe as an outside air intake. It turned out great.

 

[Relayerat]

I pulled mine out and found the framing wasn’t as complicated as I expected—just standard 2x4s. Just be ready for drywall mess and maybe some weird framing around the chase.

 

[stovelark]

If you're closing off the wall with drywall, seal everything up you can behind the opening. I'd insulate those areas too. I'd leave the pipe alone unless you are removing the chase on the outside, then the pipe would need to come out.

 

[Relayerat]

I pulled mine out and found the framing wasn’t as complicated as I expected—just standard 2x4s. Just be ready for drywall mess and maybe some weird framing around the chase.

I had a similar project last year and ran into a ton of unexpected stuff behind the prefab - old framing, odd vent placements, you name it. I ended up needing some help sorting it out and called chimney repair dallas. They were super helpful figuring out what was safe to remove and what needed reinforcing before installing the new insert. Definitely worth checking if anything’s not up to code too.