Expert: James Ball - 2/24/2010

Question
I was told the panels for my pre-fab fireplace system are no longer available. The chimney contractor told me that he can install panels made to be “cut to fit” into the fireplace system.  I called a second chimney contractor who told me that the panels must be from the manufacture of the fireplace system only. My question to you is can the “cut to fit” panels be installed into this fireplace if they are not from the manufacture of the fireplace system or does the fireplace system need to be removed because parts are no longer available.

Answer
Hello Frank, when parts are not longer available for a fireplace like yours then you either use after market parts (Like the cut to fit that are made to be used in just this case) or you replace the entire fireplace and chimney system top to bottom.
I have used these "Cut to fit" refractory panels, with no problems but I do always make the home owner aware of the fact that these are not OEM and they Sign off on it.
James