We recently had a back boiler removed from our fireplace in the lounge (1930's semi). We'd like to have a real flame gass fire installed. Something a little like this:

http://www.discount-fireplace-centre.org.uk/images/legend/crystal1.jpg

I've had a quote for installing one and was told that some "building work" would need to be done before the plumber can come and connect the thing.

I assume this involves some kind of fire brick construction behind the fire to stop the heat escaping out the back?

Has anyone had a similar thing installed and can shed some light on it ?

EDIT: We have a class II flue with a 5" dia. steel semi-flexible lining

Cheers.

dont know about heat escaping but might be something to do with fumes escaping, wheres a plumber when u want one

Could it be a size/fit thing?

When I wanted a living flame thing, I had to build a new fireplace, as my old open fire one was far too large for it to be fitted properly.

DO get it fitted by an expert though. One of my old teachers died from carbon monoxide poisoning from a gas fire, poorly maintained, apparently;(

Alcazar