OK, lets be honest here. Is there really an advantage to a fabricated steel block off plate when compared to just stuffing the damper area with insulation? Yeah, I’ve got a block off plate I made up with 16 gauge steel the day I installed my insert. Mine has never run without the plate so I have no idea if its doing anything for me. Most installers in this area (hacks from what I’ve seen) are just stuffing the damper area with insulation after putting the liner in place. Makes sense to me since it will stop more heat from going up the ol chimney than a lightweight steel plate. So, does code require a steel block off plate in some areas or is this just some sort of a profit making “up-sell” someone dreamed up years ago that has caught on?
Now the reason I ask. A good friend is getting ready to install a Lopi insert. Installer says that he would just use some insulation in place of the original damper. Lopi manual says to install a block off plate. He calls me to ask what I’ve done and why. Now I ask you, WHY did you spend the time or $$ to have a block off plate and what are the REAL advantages of having one?
Now the reason I ask. A good friend is getting ready to install a Lopi insert. Installer says that he would just use some insulation in place of the original damper. Lopi manual says to install a block off plate. He calls me to ask what I’ve done and why. Now I ask you, WHY did you spend the time or $$ to have a block off plate and what are the REAL advantages of having one?