This project started with an older interior fireplace system that no longer fit the homeowner’s vision for the room. The goal was to remove the existing fireplace, rebuild the opening properly, install a new high-end direct vent gas fireplace, create a raised hearth, and finish the wall with a custom stone and mantel design.
Estates Chimney handled the project from the inside out. First, our team extracted the existing fireplace and opened the wall so the new system could be framed correctly. Once the old unit was removed, we reframed the fireplace opening to accommodate the new Mendota FV36 direct vent gas fireplace. We also framed the area for a raised hearth, giving the fireplace a more substantial, finished presence in the room.
Because this was a full fireplace conversion, we ran the required gas and electric lines to the new fireplace location. The gas and electric were routed through the drop ceiling in the basement, allowing the installation to be completed cleanly while keeping the mechanical work properly concealed.
On the exterior, we installed a new custom stainless steel chase cover and chimney cap to help protect the chimney chase from water intrusion and provide a clean, finished appearance at the top of the system.
After the fireplace installation was completed, our mason returned to frame the wall for the custom stonework. The finished design included Ash Fall veneer stone with corners, dry stacked, creating a warm, detailed, and high-end fireplace wall. We also installed a custom-cut sandstone hearth tread for the raised hearth, adding a durable and natural finish at the base of the fireplace.
To complete the project, we installed a custom-sized Dark Brown Woodgrain non-combustible mantel from Mantelcrete. This style of mantel gives the appearance of a traditional wood mantel while offering the benefit of non-combustible construction. That allows the mantel to be installed closer to the fireplace compared to many standard wood mantels, which can also help lower the television height and improve the overall layout of the room.
The final result was a complete transformation: a modern Mendota gas fireplace, properly framed and vented, with concealed gas and electric, a protected exterior chase, custom stonework, a raised sandstone hearth, and a non-combustible mantel that delivered the wood-look finish the homeowner wanted.
This is the type of project where planning, product knowledge, and proper installation all matter. Estates Chimney managed every phase so the finished fireplace was not only beautiful, but built correctly.
