Fireplaces, Heating Stoves, Flues and Chimneys - Should I vent an enclosed chase for a direct vent fireplace?

Hi all,

We've just had a new new direct vent gas fireplace installed into an existing stick framed chimney chase. This used to house an old zero clearance wood burning fireplace that we pulled out as part of a recent remodel.

The chase is built out from the house, and it runs up about 16ft from the base to the top where the vent cap appears (we just have a single story home). What I found surprising when we opened this up is that there was no insulation in this space.

I'd really like to insulate this area, and the fireplace installer also said that I should create a "ceiling" half way up the chase (level with the current ceiling), and install a firestop. He left a firestop around the vent pipe for me so that I can do this.

Is this the correct thing to be doing?
If I close off this space with a "ceiling", and then off course close off the front so it is sealed, should I be thinking about adding some additional ventilation to keep some air moving through this space?

Thanks!

Hi d, my first stop would be the local code people. Since anything you do MUST meet fire codes in your area and MUST be acceptable to your insurance co, best to start at the top.

Keep watching as there are some on the board that may be able to provide more direction

GL
Bud