Thanks to all!! Declaration install complete.. pics and commentary

[backemin]

Thank you to all on Hearth forum...learned alot and have utilized you guys through out this process. Completed my install of Declaration / 33 flush mount insert. Had some interesting challenges. My stone prevented me from mounting flush to the front due to the irregularity of my stone face. Then the front plate of the insert would not fit into the opening due to the stones overhanging into the opening by about 2" per side. The fireplace was pretty standard but my stone made things tough.
I ended up trimming 3/8" off each side of the faceplate which allowed me to install the wholr unit "behind' the stone. I made my own filler plates and installed them behind the stone also. Used 4ft of flex pipe to rigid the rest of the way. My chimney length is only 12" total. I did insulate the liner per all your recommendations.
Lit it off last night for the first time. I'm very happy with the performace. Draft was excellent, heat output was better than I expected. I need to mount the fan speed control yet. I dont really have a good spot for it. I'll stare at it for a few days before I do that so I get it right. I've included before and after photos. Please feel free to comment good or bad, or ask questions. I've learned enough with this project I may have an answer or two to offer.

Thanks again

 

[HotCoals]

Really nice..you should be proud!

 

[begreen]

Now that's a Declaration! Very nice and you got it running just in time for this January chill.

 

[certified106]

That whole setup looks GREAT! Congrats on the awesome install.

 

[Pagey]

Wow, that's one sharp looking insert install!

 

[Blue2ndaries]

Very nice! I like the hearthstone; is it one piece? What kind of stone is it, or is it concrete?

 

[backemin]

Very nice! I like the hearthstone; is it one piece? What kind of stone is it, or is it concrete?

It's concrete, they did a real nice job of finishing it. Very smooth on the face, yet has a nice broken edge to it. Original piece from 1971.

 

[backemin]

Before and after

 

[Blue2ndaries]

Very nice! I like the hearthstone; is it one piece? What kind of stone is it, or is it concrete?

It's concrete, they did a real nice job of finishing it. Very smooth on the face, yet has a nice broken edge to it. Original piece from 1971.

The before and after looks awesome. I am really digging the 1pc concrete hearthstone. If we ever need to replace ours, I will look into having one fabricated as an option.

 

[Pallet Pete]

O my gosh there should be an award for that setup it is absolutely gorgeous! Good Job and happy burning.

Pete

 

[Locust Post]

That is awesome. I just love a stone fireplace. You can be proud and enjoy many hours keeping warm and just admiring that work.

 

[flyingpig]

Congratulations on your Declaration. The installation is perfect and I'm sure you'll enjoy the heat from THAT beautiful insert.

I have it for 2 years now, and I'm curious to hear about the performance of the new Declaration. Apparently it has smaller firebox than the previous model, and still have the same 12 hours (which is about 8 in reality) burn time. Please keep us post of how it runs too.

Cheers.......Som

 

[RandyG]

Great looking install, I love the look of that stone, warm times ahead..Congrads ;-)