Frequently Asked Questions
What type of chimney do I use? - You need a 6", 7", or 8" round UL-103HT metal flue system (depending on the fireplace model you choose) or an approved masonry flue sized appropriately for your fireplace. Sometimes re-lining an existing masonry flue system is an acceptable solution. You have the option of top venting or base venting the fireplace depending on your design or site restrictions. In some cases the flue system is located on the wall in a pre-existing flue. The flue height on the wall and model height will determine if this type of project is base vented or top vented. Consult your Tulikivi dealer about chimney system requirements before designing and installing your flue system.
What about fireplace clearances? - For most installations, the clearances in the USA are 14" from the sides, 20" from the back, 10" from the top, and 48" to the front. You can have as little as 3" clearance with an approved heat shield. Non-combustible hearth protection in front of the fireplace is a minimum of 18" deep and 8" to either side of the fireplace door. See-through fireplaces require 48" clearance on the front and back and a non-combustible hearth as described above. Consult your Tulikivi dealer about clearances before designing and installing your fireplace and hearth.
Can I install it myself? - There are varying degrees of participation for people who want to learn the process. Some clients have taken responsibility for getting the fireplace in the house and then called their Tulikivi dealer when they were ready to install. Others participate by assisting in the construction of the fireplace or other parts of the project (support structure, flue system, hearth, etc...). Support structure, clearance to combustibles, hearth protection, flue connections, and flue installation are all part of the process. In general it is a simple process with a few rules you need to follow for good construction technique. If you would like to participate in the installation of your Tulikivi or train to be a Tulikivi installer please contact your Tulikivi dealer.
I am on a budget. What can I expect to pay for the fireplace project? - Tulikivi fireplaces that heat 750 sq ft start at about $5,000. Add the flue system, support structure, and installation and you can easily approach $10,000 depending on the design. A more typical new construction project would heat 1,000-2,000 sq ft and range between $12,000-$35,000. This typically includes the support structure, flue system, hearth tiles, and installation. Ask about the 2200 series fireplaces when contacting your Tulikivi dealer. They are a good value for maximizing your heat capacity and your dollar.
Can they be electrically heated? - Yes, your Tulikivi installer and a qualified electrician is all that it takes to install and connect electrical elements and a thermostat to your Tulikivi.
What about a natural gas, propane, coal, pellet, or corn burning Tulikivi? - Currently the only UL-listed offering in North America is wood. However, soapstone has been used as a fireplace surround for wood and gas inserts and gas direct vent fireplaces.
What about hot water coils? - First consider that the fireplace itself may provide the necessary heating requirements in the room without having to heat and move water. Tulikivi does not provide coils to integrate into the fireplace. It has been done before with a modification to the core of the fireplace and coils from an independent manufacturer. Search the web to locate manufacturers of water coils that can be integrated into a masonry heater. The integration of plumbing and wood heating should be carefully thought out and planned for.
Do the fireplaces come in different colors? - There are different stone types and stone finishes to choose from other that Tulikivi classic matte. Ask about Salmon, Blue, Antique Brushed, Sky, Green Serpentine, Rockface, Boulder Style and Rigata, plan on paying 10%-20% more for these stone types and finishes.
