01/04
31818 Rev J
19
ODYSSEY SERIES FIREPLACE WITH GAS LOG SET
G. CONSTRUCTING A CHASE
A chase is a vertical boxlike enclosure built around the chimney
and fireplace. A chase may be constructed for the fireplace
and chimney or for the chimney only. It is most commonly
constructed on an outside wall.
In cold climates, it is recommended that the chase floor be
insulated using batt type insulation between the floor joists.
Three examples of chase applications are shown in
Figure 19.
Figure 19
Chase Constructions
1. Materials for the Chase
The chase is constructed using framing materials much
the same as the walls in your home. A variety of materials
may be used including brick, stone, veneer brick or
standard siding materials.
In constructing the chase, several factors must be
considered:
a.
Maintain a 3/4 minimum air space around the
fireplace.
b.
Maintain a 2 air space around the chimney.
c.
The chase top must be constructed of a
noncombustible material.
d.
In cold climates a firestop spacer should be installed
in an insulated false ceiling at the 8-foot level above
the fireplace assembly. This prevents heat loss
through the fireplace.
e.
In cold climates, the walls of the chase should be
insulated to the level of the false ceiling as shown in
Figure 20. This will help prevent heat loss from the
home around and through the fireplace.
Figure 20
Chase Assembly
1.
Fireplace and chimney enclosed in an exterior
chase.
2.
Chimney offset through exterior wall and
enclosed in chase.
3.
Chase constructed on roof.
