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December 7, 2008
Retro-fitting for Gas Fireplace
Hello. I have seen various posts on vent free and vented fireplaces here on Brownstoner and am hoping for some additional assistance in determining how to convert our brownstone's kitchen fireplace (see photo) to a functioning gas fireplace. Questions are (1) given the photos, would a gas log work/be safe with what appear to be a decorative surround and tiles? Or do we perhaps have no issues because what we've thought are decorative elements are indeed functional with heat and flames? and (2) Assuming we won't burn our house, surround and tiles down when heated, and knowing that the chimney has not been lined since 1865 or thereabouts, should we go with ventless? What are people's thoughts on ventless chimneys? Advice is much appreciated, many thanks.
Comments
The three-piece cast iron insert in your fireplace is known as a fireback. Its function is to retain and emit heat while preserving the fireplace. In my opinion, you should start by scheduling an appointment with a licensed chimney sweep to assess what is safe—whether gas, wood, or ventless—and whether anything will burn safely given the current condition of your chimney and flues.
Posted by: vinca at December 8, 2008 1:06 AM
would also like to hear from someone that has had their chimney lined.
we just purchased on the 4th floor of a brownstone and have two similar non working fireplaces.
Would like to convert to gas but I dont understand how chimneys 'work', eg do we have to line all the other firplaces in the building (three lower floors) at the same time.
Cheers,
Dean
Posted by: deanc at December 8, 2008 10:12 AM
Normally, each fireplace has its own flue. But that is not always the case because flues may have been rendered unusable or otherwise commandeered for use by other building systems. There are several chimney sweeps highly recommended on this site, some or all of which will come by, look at your actual conditions and give an estimate free or reasonably priced. Woudn't a real-time, real-place, real-knowledge, real-affordable opinion be a good way to get questions answered?
Posted by: vinca at December 8, 2008 12:39 PM
just didn't want to waste anyone's time if it was some outrageous job eg. the whole building had to be setup for just our apartment to convert to gas.
Cheers,
Dean
Posted by: deanc at December 8, 2008 3:35 PM
Thanks very much Vinca!
Posted by: Woofer Plantation at December 8, 2008 11:00 PM
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