12-03-2019, 03:57 PM
Mattk...
I helped my father in law and father put in inserts. Both heated their homes for years with them. For a young family like yours, especially in colder climates, it's not a bad thing.. if you have a supply of wood. Do NOT get one unless you are willing to be your own lumberjack. With all the issues that come with that.
Modern inserts also come with a host of other complexities.... catalytic converter for smoke mitigation. Recommended chimney liner double walled stainless pipes because chimney fires are... well, they suck. (Been there twice). Etc. etc. etc.
Take your photos and measurements to a local fireplace shop and ask around. You may end up with a glass door cover so you can use the fireplace 'if you want to' and stick with your normal home heating solution.
I helped my father in law and father put in inserts. Both heated their homes for years with them. For a young family like yours, especially in colder climates, it's not a bad thing.. if you have a supply of wood. Do NOT get one unless you are willing to be your own lumberjack. With all the issues that come with that.
Modern inserts also come with a host of other complexities.... catalytic converter for smoke mitigation. Recommended chimney liner double walled stainless pipes because chimney fires are... well, they suck. (Been there twice). Etc. etc. etc.
Take your photos and measurements to a local fireplace shop and ask around. You may end up with a glass door cover so you can use the fireplace 'if you want to' and stick with your normal home heating solution.