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Review of Stovax Riva 40 multi fuel

Riva 40 - Cracks in chimney breast

Alex Saward 10 years ago

I had an exposed brick chimney breast with an open fire and last year had it plastered & a Riva 40 fitted, the chimney breast was lined with heat resistant plaster board and heat resistant plaster about 30cm around the actual Riva, however every time we have a fire cracks emanate from the Riva, can anyone tell me what to do, I can't face a lifetime of filling cracks & repainting the chimney breast after each use of the Riva? I can't go back to the bricks as they have now been spoiled.

Stove expert replied: Was there back fill round the cassette when installed and how was the flue connected, two areas that are worth re-visiting to try to overcome this annoying problem.

Overall rating:

3 flames

Build Quality 3.5 flames (avg 4.1)
Quality of finish 3.5 flames (avg 3.9)
Value for money 3.5 flames (avg 3.4)
Ease of use 3.5 flames (avg 4.1)
Ease of lighting 3.5 flames (avg 4.1)
Firebox size 1.5 flames (avg 3.2)
How well does the airwash work 4.5 flames (avg 3.7)
Controllability 4.5 flames (avg 3.9)
Handle operation 3.5 flames (avg 4)
How likely are you to buy it again? 1.5 flames (avg 3.2)
What is your overall satisfaction? 1.5 flames (avg 3.4)