9
Installing the
Fireplace
Constructing the Fireplace Chase
A chase is a vertical box-like structure built to enclose
the gas fireplace and/or its vent system. Vertical vents
that run on the outside of a building may be, but are
not required to be, installed inside a chase.
TREATMENT OF FIRESTOP SPACERS AND CON-
STRUCTION OF THE CHASE MAY VARY WITH
THE TYPE OF BUILDING. THESE INSTRUCTIONS
ARE NOT SUBSTITUTES FOR THE REQUIRE-
MENTS OF LOCAL BUILDING CODES. THERE-
FORE, YOUR LOCAL BUILDING CODES MUST
BE CHECKED TO DETERMINE THE REQUIRE-
MENTS FOR THESE STEPS.
Factory-built fireplace chases should be constructed
in the manner of all outside walls of the home to pre-
vent cold air drafting problems. The chase should not
break the outside building envelope in any manner.
This means that the walls, ceiling, base plate and can-
tilever floor of the chase should be insulated. Vapor
and air infiltration barriers should be installed in the
chase as per regional codes for the rest of the home.
Additionally, Heat-N-Glo recommends that the inside
surfaces be sheetrocked and taped for maximum air
tightness.
To further prevent drafts, the firestops should be
caulked to seal gaps. Gas line holes and other open-
ings should be caulked or stuffed with insulation. If
the unit is being installed on a cement slab, we rec-
ommend that a layer of plywood be placed underneath
to prevent conducting cold up into the room. Be sure
to include spark arrestors for woodburning units if they
are required.
THE CHASE SHOULD BE CONSTRUCTED SO
THAT ALL CLEARANCES TO THE FIREPLACE
ARE MAINTAINED AS SPECIFIED WITHIN THIS
INSTALLERS GUIDE.
CAUTION:
