What’s Happening

Fireplace/Flue/Chimney Information: So, at the meeting on August 1, 2024, Murphy’s Fireplace explained about the condition of our “zero-clearance” fireplace (unit).

A traditional fireplace usually has a masonry surround all the way up to the ceiling and flue to prevent the surrounding materials from catching fire. The best example of a traditional fireplace is in the TV prairie home of the Ingall’s family - Little House on the Prairie. The fireplace was large and in the center of the living space.

Ours are zero-clearance unit look like the picture above. The unit is much smaller and is not designed to completely warm your home. This Owner had his “fireplace/flue/chimney” removed and this is a picture of what is inside. Notice that there is no masonry to protect the surrounding combustible materials. The flue, if it is in good condition, vents smoke and prevents embers from escaping.

Over time, several factors can affect the safety of the unit.

• A big and fierce fire can melt/warp the firebox and it is not safe for use.

• Water and moisture can corrode the flue and create cracks and fissures. This will allow embers to escape and combust nearby materials (your home and/or your neighbor’s home).

• The chimney (exterior) can also become corroded and allow embers to escape and combust nearby materials.

• Manufacturing materials over time become outdated and are not considered “up to code”.

So, the Board has made the decision to only allow fireplace usage for those Owners who have a current code compliant Zero-Clearance Fireplace or a professionally inspected fireplace.

For inspections, Owners must annually have a Level II inspection completed by a licensed and bonded fireplace contractor. The inspection report must be provided to the Board of Directors and it must state that the fireplace is safe to use.