1. Why should I choose an all-masonry fireplace over a metal fireplace?
Masonry fireplaces offer numerous benefits over a metal fireplace including:
- Substantial aesthetic advantage
- Greater heating ability (heat reflection)
- Longer lifespan – more than double that of a metal box
- Superior to metal for heat containment thereby reducing fire hazards
- Will not rust when exposed to the elements
2. Are there disadvantages of using traditional brick & mortar fireplaces?
A few potential disadvantages of a traditional brick and mortar fireplace include:
- Significantly more expensive
- Reliance on the engineering skills of a mason cannot ensure a quality built, properly functioning fireplace
- Site built fireplaces cannot be UL approved (FireRock is UL approved)
3. How does the heating property of traditional masonry compare with that of FireRock?
Traditional brick and mortar can actually absorb heat from the fire as well as expand and contract with varying temperature demands. This fluctuation in the fireplace will wear down more quickly. FireRock products are ‘refractory’, meaning the heat is actually reflected back into the home and the product does not expand and contract, thus promoting greater durability.
4. If I choose to spend the money for a masonry fireplace, why should I choose a pre-engineered component fireplace over a brick and mortar fireplace?
The pre-engineered nature of the FireRock system ensures a quicker, problem free installation resulting in proper draw every time and eliminates potential mason installation error.
5. How does the cost of FireRock compare to the cost of a site-built traditional brick and mortar fireplace?
FireRock is generally half the cost of site-built masonry.
6. How does the cost of FireRock compare to the cost of a site-built traditional brick and mortar fireplace?
FireRock is generally half the cost of site-built masonry.
7. What type of veneers can I put on a FireRock unit?
The superior insulating properties of the FireRock material allow it to be veneered with any non-combustible building material including; rock, brick, manmade stone, stucco, etc.
8. How do I get a Fire Rock fireplace installed?
Interior: Your local distributor will either have in-house installation capabilities or can refer you to a qualified installation crew. Given the ease of installation, a "handy" homeowner may wish to perform the installation independently with the help of our detailed Installation Guide.
Exterior: The "garden box" is very easy to assemble by a professional or a homeowner.
9. How much do Fire Rock components weigh?
Each kit is comprised of a variety of different parts weighing from 30 pounds to up to 200 pounds. Only one or two of the heavier pieces require more than one person to lift them.
10. What type of unique support is required for Fire Rock?
Fire Rock requires a non-combustible base. if built over a basement or crawl space, this can be accomplished either using concrete blocks or steel columns supporting a newly poured concrete pad. If Fire Rock is being installed on an existing slab, it requires a twelve-inch footing.
The Vent-free product may be installed on a wood floor with no special foundation requirements.
Due to the finished weight of the product, the Fire Rock system requires the same type of support as a traditional brick and mortar fireplace.