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In addition to flashing, a roof cricket can help divert water around your chimney so that it drains properly off your roof. It’s shaped like a double triangle and is installed behind the chimney so that falling water spills evenly down each side. This helps prevent water from accumulating behind your chimney, which can increase water damage and the risk of leaks. 

The International Building Code (IBC) requires cricket installation if a chimney built after 2012 measures over 30 inches in width. Chimneys constructed before that date are typically grandfathered in and aren’t required to have crickets installed.

The best location for a wood stove depends on your home's layout and venting options. For optimal heat distribution, a central location on the ground floor, such as the living room, is often recommended. If you have an existing, functional chimney, installing the stove there can simplify the venting process. Alternatively, placing the stove near an outside wall can make it easier to route a new chimney through the roof. For safety, ensure no combustible materials are near the stove. Building codes typically require 20 to 36 inches of clearance between the stove and any side walls.

The answer can vary widely based on a home's age and design. As with any type of remodeling project, assume that every structure is load-bearing until confirming otherwise with a structural engineer. Almost all modern homes have chimneys that are fully independent from the rest of the home's framing. As a result, they don't bear any load beyond their own weight. However, many historic homes built prior to the 1900s contain load-bearing chimneys that tie into the surrounding roof and floor joists. If possible, use a home's blueprints or look for chimney connections that indicate load-bearing qualities to get your answer.

Fireplace inserts have several potential disadvantages. The cost of the insert and its installation can be a significant investment, as the process can be complicated and expensive, particularly if modifications to the existing fireplace are necessary. Aesthetically, some people find that inserts lack the traditional look and authentic ambiance of an open, crackling fire. There are also ongoing costs for maintenance, cleaning, and fuel. Fuel type can be a limitation; for example, an insert may be unusable if you don't have access to its specific fuel source. Maintenance and repairs can also require specialized services, especially for gas or electric models. Finally, while an insert is more efficient than an open fireplace, it may not heat a home as evenly as a central HVAC system.