If the factory-built fireplace is located on an exterior wall, what can be constructed around the chimney to contain and protect it?

The correct answer is the chase, which is an architectural structure designed to encase a chimney or flue that extends vertically through a building. In the context of a factory-built fireplace located on an exterior wall, a chase serves several important functions. It helps to protect the chimney from weather elements, enhances the aesthetic appearance of the building by providing a finished look, and aids in keeping the chimney properly insulated as needed.

By constructing a chase around the chimney, builders can ensure that it is securely housed, reducing the risk of damage from external factors such as rain, snow, and wind. Additionally, a properly designed chase allows for necessary ventilation and clearance from combustible materials, which is crucial for safety and compliance with building codes.

Other options serve different purposes in the context of fireplace and chimney systems. The flue is a duct or pipe designed to direct smoke and gases away from the fireplace to the outside. A cap is typically placed on top of the chimney to prevent rainwater or debris from entering the flue. A shroud is usually an external structure that covers or conceals components of the chimney, but it does not provide the same comprehensive surround and utility as a chase.