What is a Fireplace Kit?
Most often, a fireplace kit refers to a masonry product comprised of pre-engineered component blocks which stack and mortar together to form a fireplace and chimney system. 
A fireplace kit is typically packaged and delivered to a new home construction site or existing home remodel on one or two pallets (depending on the size of the fireplace). Because a fireplace kit includes pre-engineered pre-cut components, the ease of installation is preferred by builders, installers and do-it yourselfers. In addition, the engineering behind the modular fireplace kits allows for optimal smoke draw (resulting in lower instances of improper smoke spillage), which inspires the kits’ popularity and preference among residential architects.
The masonry fireplace kit is suitable for indoor and outdoor application, although there may be slight variations in model specifics between indoor and outdoor units. They are also compatible with a masonry or metal chimney flue, and can be used for both wood and gas burning. That said, fireplace kits offer many model and size options, and certain types may require one accessory or fuel application over another. For instance, a vent-free fireplace will require the use of gas-burning logs due to the absence of ventilation adequate to allow for the evacuation of the smoke that results in a wood-burning setting.
The masonry fireplace kit is durable, easy to install, cost about two-thirds less than its counterpart – the traditional brick and mortar fireplace, and will most definitely add an elegant focal point to any room or outdoor living area.
To see a great demonstration with commentary of a "dry-stack" installation of a fireplace kit, please click the link below to watch a 9 minute video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SJnDm-BkfDQ