First off what a great site. I've been popping in here off and on for a few seasons and have learned a great deal from you folks. I am currently running an old VC insert (model 44 I believe) which is pretty beat up and has a fairly limited burn time. I'd like to upgrade this year and can't decide on whether to put in another insert or change to a stove. I am currently leaning towards a stove maybe a castine or alderlea t5 but don't know if they would be to snug a fit for my fireplace opening which is 35" wide by 28" tall. The fireplace is 24" deep at the base 36" if you include the hearth which is only 12". The VC had a 8" stainless liner that I hope to reuse if I can. I'm planning to do the install myself on whichever unit I choose and hoping for quick and easy switchover. Also, the house is cape style and the chimney is on an outside wall. Thanks in advance for any help.
~ryan
~ryan