[Greenbuilding] Visible Flames (Fireplaces) in Tight Houses

[Clarke Olsen]

What is the reason for not insulating that space? Why would vermiculite be a better conductor than air? 
Does this apply to metal and masonry chimneys?
Clarke Olsen
clarkeolsendesign.com
373 route 203
Spencertown, NY 12165 
USA
518-392-4640
colsen at taconic.net




On Dec 3, 2014, at 11:14 AM, Norbert Senf <norbert.senf at gmail.com> wrote:

> Under no circumstances should anything be put into the 2" air space that is specified around a UL/ULC listed factory chimney.
> 
> If you put vermiculite in there, you are voiding the UL listing of the chimney by virtue of not installing according to "manufacturers instructions". This creates liability for you.
> 
> This is a common misconception, and is the reason for the  "attic radiation shield" required in attics, which are required to have a storm collar on them, specifically to prevent people from putting insulation into the 2" air space. Here in Canada, a radiation shield is also required around chimneys in chases, specifically to avoid this scenario.
> 
> This is not an issue in normal use. However, the ULC-621 listing means the chimney system (including the air space) has been tested to survive three 30 minute chimney fires at 2100F, without torching the adjacent walls. Put vermiculite into the air space, and the wall will burn. I have seen photos of where this has happened.
> 
> Norbert
> 
> On Wed, Dec 3, 2014 at 9:43 AM, <conservationarchitect at rockbridge.net> wrote:
> Alan
>  
> How tight were the openings into this closed loop fireplace?  This may be acceptable to my client.   .6ach at 50pa is impressive with these handicaps.  What would your recommendation for interior cloths dryer be?
>  
> As an alternative to the insulated chase, could you define a space up to a triple wall chimney that has the specified clearance to combustible material filled with non combustible insulation such as vermiculite. 
>  
> Thanks
> Eli
>  
>  
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