Wanting to install an insert into my masonry but the firebox is too small

[Steve17]

Looking for some advice im wanting to install an insert into my masonry fireplace but my opening is about an inch too small top and sides. I have no problem moving the lintel up to the next row of bricks my bigest issue is the taper of my fire box. My opening is 27.5"W and 20.5" deep and my back wall is 15"W . I cant even get the smallest stove inside those dimensions. Is rebuilding the fire box 2" wider with no taper to the back wall an option. Or what can I do here ?

 

[begreen]

What are the full dimensions of the fireplace? 20" is fairly deep. Is the depth at the lintel height the same as at the bottom? What is the current lintel height?

 

[Steve17]

The lintel is 21.5" and the depth from there is 19" the back wall starts to curve in about 6" down from the lintel height

 

[begreen]

How large of an area will the insert be heating? What is the budget for the stove and for the liner?

 

[Steve17]

The open room. It's in is 500 sqft but the floor is just under 1000. I'm not too concerned about a budget I just want to figure out how to get a stove in there

 

[kennyp2339]

If doing all that work, why not trim the fire box back & flush with the wall, install a new crock higher, cover the rest of the fire box open and install a free standing stove in front on a larger hearth?

 

[Supersurvey]

Can you post a picture?

 

[begreen]

The Country Striker and Lopi Answer are two inserts to look at.

 

[Steve17]

Thanks guys. I've decided to custom fabricate my own insert

 

[Sailrmike]

Thanks guys. I've decided to custom fabricate my own insert

Your insurance company may not approve of this. This is a major safety risk w/o testing

 

[PaulOinMA]

I have the little Lopi Answer mentioned above. Great little insert for my needs. Like it a lot.