Expert: James Ball - 1/23/2011

Question
The OEM for my wood-burning fireplace evidently went out of business, so replacement refractory panels are not available. Before I look for the generic panels, are there any generic instructions on how these panels attach?  I am hesitant to rip out the old panels before knowing how they attach and that the generic panels will fit and I don't want to order generic panels before I know they will fit and that I can connect them to the structure.

Answer
Hello Rob the owners manual should show how to replace them, most have a bracket on top with 1-2 screws holding the bracket, so dis assembly might be needed but in most cases you remove the sides then the back then replace in revers order, the generic replacement panels can be cut with a small hand saw (very easy).  Measure old and new panels to be sure you have them tall and wide enough. if your old come out in one piece then just trace the old over the new and cut.
I would have a local Certified Chimney Sweep www.csia.org, (there you can look up by zip code to find one near you) take a first hand look at what you have, they should be able to help.
Hope this helps
James