Q: What size damper should I use?
A: Use 24” Damper for 28” Magnum. Use 33” Damper for 36” & 42” Standard and Magnum Fireplaces. Use 42” Damper for 46” Standard and 48” Magnum Fireplaces. Use 60” Damper for 60 “ Magnum. Use 72” Damper for 72” Magnum.
Q: How many firebricks are needed? (assuming running bond pattern)
A: 36” Units = 90 brick | 42” Units = 100 brick | 46” Units = 120 brick | 48” Units = 140 brick | 60” Units = 180 splits / 60 ful | 72” Units = 200 splits / 60 full
Q: How much mortar is needed?
A: 50# Pail of Earthcore Mortar is plenty for all fireplace units. You will need (2) 50# Pails of Earthcore Mortar for 60/72” Magnums. You will need additional 50# pail for each 12ft of DM54 Chimney.
Q: Does Isokern offer 2-sided fireplaces?
A: Yes. The Isokern Standard Series and Vent-Free series can be installed for a ‘see-thru’ application. These PRODicular installations are referenced in both Series’ installation manuals.
Q: How long will my Isokern last?
A: When treated and installed properly, Isokern products should at least last the life of your house.
Q: Can my Isokern Fireplace be made to have a taller opening?
A: Yes, but there are limitations to doing this such as ceiling height, surrounding environment, and indoor air quality.
Q: Can I install my own Isokern fireplace or chimney system?
A: Although simple and kit-like in design, Isokern products are not do-it-yourself projects and need to be installed by a professional. However, an outdoor fireplace system can be assembled by the homeowner who follows the assembly guide.
Q: Can an Isokern fireplace system sit on a wood floor?
A: The Vent-Free and IBV series units can sit on a wood floor. However, most wood burning Isokern fireplaces cannot. The exception to this is the Standard and Magnum Series when the Fire-Lite application is applied.
Q: What type of gas logs can be used in an Isokern fireplace system?
A: Vented gas logs can be used in the IBV, Standard, and Magnum Series fireplace systems. These gas logs range from 50,000 BTU to 100,000 BTU maximum. The Vent-Free Series specifies the use of AGA listed “vent-free” log sets. The “vent-free” log sets are 40,000 BTU maximum.
Q: Do Isokern fireplaces come with a glass front?
A: No. All Isokern fireplaces are designed as open front units. If glass doors are required by local code or desired, the fireplace must be burned with the glass doors in the fully open position.
Q: Can I vent an Isokern directly out of the back of the box?
A: No. Isokern vented units are specifically designed to vent vertically.
Q: Is there a maximum and/or minimum chimney height for the Isokern?
A: Yes, 80’ (eighty feet) maximum height and 18’ (eighteen feet) of DM Chimney components minimum. Please check with local codes and sales representatives for outdoor application requirements.
Q: Can a metal chimney be used on an Isokern?
A: Yes. The metal chimney must be listed for use with solid fuel (UL 103). However, for the Fire-Lite application, a double walled, air-cooled chimney is required.
Q: Can stucco, brick or stone be directly applied to an Isokern fireplace or chimney system?
A: Yes. We recommend the material be scratch-coated or metal lathed prior to the finished application. Please consult your builder or finished application professional.
Q: Can an Isokern fireplace or chimney system be properly installed if cracks exist in the components
A: Yes. The components can easily be repaired with Earthcore Mortar which will not negatively affect performance or safety. If components are visibly unusable, please consult your local sales representative, dealer or distributor.
Q: How can an Isokern chimney system be terminated?
A: Isokern chimney systems may be terminated in methods such as a stucco cap or brick or stone veneer cap. Please consult your builder or designer for termination needs.
Q: Are there any resources for seismic anchoring?
A: Yes we have a PDF which can be found here: Seismic Anchoring – PDF or on our specification page under Seismic Anchoring.