Wood Stove Insert Installation & Chimney Reconstruction in SW Tigard

Efficient Heating Upgrade Using the Lopi Medium Flush Nex-Gen Insert

Project Overview: Converting Unusable Fireplaces Into High-Efficiency Wood Stove Systems

Homeowners in SW Tigard reached out to Portland Chimney Inc. with the same challenge: their existing masonry fireplaces were no longer safe or functional. Both clients wanted a heating system that offered the ambiance of a wood fire, the efficiency of a modern appliance, and the ability to heat their rooms without the energy loss common to traditional, open fireplaces.

We recommended and installed the Lopi Medium Flush Nex-Gen Wood Stove Insert in both homes—an advanced, clean-burning system with an arched viewing door large enough to showcase the fire while delivering exceptional heat output. Since the existing fireboxes were in poor condition, each chimney required structural upgrades before the insert could be safely installed.

The Problem: Aging Fireplaces That Were No Longer Safe to Use

Both clients wanted wood stove inserts from the start, but the fireplaces in their existing condition were unusable. During our initial assessments, we found:

Fireboxes that were not up to current safety standards
Missing or damaged components that made traditional burning unsafe
Chimneys that needed improvement before any appliance installation
Inefficient airflow that would not support a wood stove insert without a liner

Even though the end goal was a high-efficiency stove, each system needed foundational chimney work to ensure a safe and code-compliant installation.

Because Portland-area homes—especially older ones in SW Tigard—often have original masonry fireplaces from the early and mid-20th century, issues like cracked liners, failing mortar joints, and poor draft performance are extremely common. These structures typically need modernization before they can support today’s cleaner-burning stoves.

Our Solution: Installing Lopi Medium Flush Nex-Gen Inserts & Rebuilding Each Chimney

To deliver the efficiency and clean performance the homeowners wanted, we followed a structured installation process for each property.

Chimney Rebuild & Structural Preparation

Before any appliance work began, we upgraded the chimney systems to ensure structural stability and proper draft. This included:

Reconstructing sections of each chimney
Ensuring proper clearance to combustibles
Preparing the flue system for a stainless steel liner
Securing the chase and exterior masonry

These foundational repairs are vital for long-term safety and allow the wood stove insert to operate at its peak performance.

Wood Stove Insert & Liner Installation

We installed the Lopi Medium Flush Nex-Gen Wood Stove Insert, chosen for its:

High-efficiency heating performance
Clean, modern design
Large arched viewing door
EPA-certified clean burn technology

Each insert was paired with a stainless steel chimney liner, which provides a dedicated flue path for the appliance, prevents heat transfer to old masonry, and improves draft consistency.

We also issued and managed the required Mechanical Permit and inspection, ensuring both installations were fully compliant with Oregon building codes.

Installation Timeline

Because both systems were well-planned and materials were ready, each installation was completed in 1–2 days, including final adjustments, gasket checks, curing fires, and post-install cleanup.

Why Wood Stoves Are Popular in SW Tigard

Homes in the SW Tigard neighborhood often feature vintage architecture, older chimneys, and fireplaces that were built before today’s efficiency standards. Residents who want the charm of a fireplace frequently face the high cost of restoring traditional open masonry systems.

A wood stove insert offers a high-performance alternative:

Up to 80% more efficient than open fireplaces
Clean-burning and environmentally friendly
Capable of heating large living areas
Safe and easy to maintain
Enhances property value

The Lopi Nex-Gen series in particular is well-liked for its modern appearance and the oversized viewing door, which preserves the visual beauty of a traditional fire without the inefficiency.

These upgrades have become increasingly common in Portland’s older neighborhoods where homeowners want better heating without sacrificing style.

Final Results: High Efficiency, Modern Design & Very Happy Clients

After installation, both homeowners were thrilled with the look and performance of their new stoves. The sleek flush-mount design fit seamlessly into the existing fireplaces, and the upgraded chimneys now provide the safety and reliability needed for long-term use.

The clients described the final result as:

“Beautiful, efficient, and surprisingly sleek compared to the old fireplace.”

With improved heating capacity, better airflow, and stunning fire visibility, both properties now enjoy reliable warmth and a significant upgrade in energy efficiency.