Expert: Steve Tavares - 11/30/2009

Question
Hi Steve.  I recently installed an older model Gibraltar insert in my existing fireplace.  I have met all venting and clearance requirements, but I have one concern. The indert kicks out so much heat (and only at half the capacity of the firebox) that the granite tile facing below the mantle gets burning hot-and although clearances are met, those hot tiles come into contact with the wood trim under the mantle.  I'm thinking I need to remove all wood in that area, and perhaps replace with a non combustible mantle.  What do you think?

Answer
If all clearances are met and the fireplace/Insert has been installed according the the manual. Then you should be fine. Just make sure the clearances are met and the unit is installed correctly and you should have nothing to worry about.

Hope this helped.