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Prairie, the Fireplace company came out Monday, and immediately commented on our builder (K.Hovnanian homes in Virginia), "Oh yeahh, this is a standard shoddy job of K. Hovnanian fireplace installation." Basically, our builder did not provide sufficient insulation in the chase/doghouse portion, which in our case is a two-story family room. Their quote to fix it was $1500!!
He did say we have done a good job of quick-fixes, with adding insulation under the firebox, where the gas line comes in (big culprit), blocking the direct vent out the back with insulation (since we do not use it), and even taking off the metal box on the back of the house, and covering the hole with sheet metal (I guess we could caulk it to help also). We also bought those black magnetic strips to cover the louvers on the front of the fireplace. It has definitely helped overall, but it just stinks that the minimal code and the builder provided such minimal insulation in the first place.
Thank you Zak! We fear the same shoddy work! This weekend we made a cover for the vent outside, we probably have a few leaks under the firebox as well. (will check this weekend) I have the front taped with the window plastic but this week we had 42mph winds...its like a living breathing entity.
$1500. - Yikes! Thanks again!
prairie
Prairie, the Fireplace company came out Monday, and immediately commented on our builder (K.Hovnanian homes in Virginia), "Oh yeahh, this is a standard shoddy job of K. Hovnanian fireplace installation." Basically, our builder did not provide sufficient insulation in the chase/doghouse portion, which in our case is a two-story family room. Their quote to fix it was $1500!!
He did say we have done a good job of quick-fixes, with adding insulation under the firebox, where the gas line comes in (big culprit), blocking the direct vent out the back with insulation (since we do not use it), and even taking off the metal box on the back of the house, and covering the hole with sheet metal (I guess we could caulk it to help also). We also bought those black magnetic strips to cover the louvers on the front of the fireplace. It has definitely helped overall, but it just stinks that the minimal code and the builder provided such minimal insulation in the first place.
I'd go to the builder with your report. I would also consider talking to a lawyer (free consultation) about your problem. You'll be surprised what builders will do when they get some extra heat. If you still don't get anywhere, talk to your neighbors and see if they have the same problem. If they do, you should contact the local media.
I have a wood burning fireplace the damper is wide open, I get smoke in thehouse when burning wood,there are chains on the side of the firebox that open or close could this be my problem and should they be open or closed when burning.
I have a wood burning fireplace the damper is wide open, I get smoke in thehouse when burning wood,there are chains on the side of the firebox that open or close could this be my problem and should they be open or closed when burning.
We have a heatilator also. It is the worst. Keep a fireplace blanket over it and never use it. It is always windy and freezing in winter and you can see outside through vent and pollen gets in in the spring.
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