The easiest way to tell if it’s prefabricated is
if there is exposed black metal on the outside of the unit
. Another easy way to identify it is by stepping outside and looking at the chimney. If siding or stucco covers your chimney, it’s typically factory-built.
What is the difference between a masonry and prefabricated fireplace?
There are advantages and disadvantages to choosing a pre-fabricated fireplace. The primary difference between a masonry fireplace and a factory built fireplace is
the way in which they are constructed
. A masonry fireplace is built at the site of the home, while a factory built fireplace is pre-assembled in a factory.
What is a prefabricated fireplace?
As the name suggests, prefabricated — sometimes referred to as manufactured or factory-built —
fireplaces are constructed entirely off site
. The fireplace and chimney are designed and safety tested to be installed as a complete system.
Can you burn wood in a prefab fireplace?
For that reason, we recommend that prefab fireplaces should be limited to small fires. Certainly, you can burn wood in most prefabs but
never any larger or hotter than what you
would get if you’re burning just one Duraflame log.
What is a prefabricated fireplace unit?
A prefab fireplace is
a one that has been manufactured and assembled in a factory before being transported and installed at a job site
. This type of fireplace will save you time and money, over a traditional masonry fireplace. They are made in vent less, direct-vent and vented versions.
How long does a prefab fireplace last?
Unlike a masonry fireplace, a prefab fireplace is a factory-made product that can, at best, last for up to
20 to 30 years
if well maintained; however, the average life expectancy is between 10 to 15 years.
How much does it cost to replace a prefab fireplace?
| Type of Fireplace Cost to Install (Including Pre-Fab Removal) | Gas $5,300 – $7,200 | Stone $4,500 – $6,400 | Electric $700 – $4,700 |
|---|
How do I know if my fireplace is masonry?
A masonry fireplace has
a firebox built of individual generally yellowish firebrick
, a brick chimney above the roof, and if you look up past the damper you will see a roughly pyramid shaped affair also built of brick.
How much does it cost to put in a stone fireplace?
Stone Fireplace Cost
A stone fireplace costs anywhere from
$2,500 to $10,000 or more
. Most range from $3,000 to $7,500 but a custom, real stone design built by a mason is pricier. Outdoor fireplaces cost $3,000 on average (though again, custom work will raise the price).
How do I know if my fireplace has zero clearance?
The most obvious way of identifying a zero clearance fireplace is
the existence of black metal
, either exposed on the face or inside the firebox (Fig. #6). Some fireplace manufacturers are doing a better job of hiding the metal and making fireplaces that look more like masonry (Fig. #7).
Can you replace a prefab fireplace with a masonry fireplace?
If you need to replace an old factory built fireplace you have the option of a masonry type, or a more modern prefab, or a gas fireplace.
How long does a fireplace box last?
With annual maintenance, cleanings, and repair investments, your masonry firebox will last forever. A prefab unit, however, is not designed to last forever. It varies from
10 to 30 years
, depending on your usage, amount of maintenance, and if the technician installed it correctly.
Are prefabricated fireplaces safe?
While prefab fireplaces are extensively tested at the factory for safety,
they must be installed correctly to be safe in your home
. … Factory-built fireplaces have an excellent safety record because they are built to meet strict standards, and they pass rigorous testing standards.
What is a prefabricated brick fireplace?
Understanding prefabricated fireplaces
As the name suggests, prefabricated — sometimes referred to as manufactured or factory-built — fireplaces are
constructed entirely off site
. The fireplace and chimney are designed and safety tested to be installed as a complete system.
What is the difference between a zero clearance fireplace and a masonry fireplace?
While brick and ceramic are the most common materials used for the internal, or working, components of a masonry fireplace, the face material can also include stone, marble, granite, travertine and tile. Zero Clearance (or ZC) fireplaces are
pre-manufactured metal fireboxes with coinciding metal flue pipe
.
Are all fireplaces brick?
Fireplaces come in 4 general types,
masonry fireplaces built entirely of bricks
, blocks or stone and mortar, insert fireplaces, prefabricated fireplaces and factory built or prefabricated fireplaces consisting of a lightweight metal firebox and a metal chimney.
