The prefabricated, factorybuilt
fireplace was born in
the building boom of the
1970s as a solution to the
high demand for fireplaces
and the severe shortage of masons.
These new "builders boxes" were
inexpensive, quick to install, and
could be handled by carpenters — no
masons were needed. They did not,
however, satisfy customers looking
for the quality and durability of a
masonry firebox.
In response, manufacturers have
developed new options that combine
the quality of masonry with the low
cost of a prefab installation. Some
combine the masonry firebox with a
metal chimney, making them a new
breed of hybrid fireplace.
Early Prefabs
The original prefabricated chimneys
were made of three interlocking
pipes that circulated air to remove
excess heat. The triple-wall chimney
system