I want to purchase new Montpelier insert cause my old VC model (0044) fan is caput. Looking at required hearth thickness I am pretty sure I don't have enough R value, although the salesman is saying otherwise. I have 4 in brick under 1/4 slate. Old house (1936) so it is framed in wood. My thoughts are to possibly slide in some steel underneath the brick to increase the total R value. I need approx 1.5 R and think I have about .9 R. Not sure yet if I can slide the metal in from underneath but I would do this from my basement where I can see the framing. Does this sound possible? Otherwise I believe my only alternative is to rip the slate and existing brick out and replace the brick with alternate material. I had really hoped to use the existing black slate which will go well with the new insert. Not looking forward to the work.
I don't think the R value was mentioned in the manual of the old VC insert. I have used this insert for over 20 years. Am I just lucky the house never went up in flames? Thanks for the input.
I don't think the R value was mentioned in the manual of the old VC insert. I have used this insert for over 20 years. Am I just lucky the house never went up in flames? Thanks for the input.