Hi, I’m remodeling old house and want to install direct vent fireplace. Contractor gave me to options for installation 1) Fireplace is installed inside the house and just vent is shown on exterior. 2) Box (frame) like chimney is built on exterior and fireplace sits outside, just front screen is facing interior. Which option is better and what I should take into consideration for both? Thanks, location Staten Island NY

It's all a matter of personal preference. If you have the room inside, the installation will not require cutting into the bearing wall and installing a header. You will have to decide whether to frame it in all the way to the ceiling or just high enough to accomodate the unit and venting. Putting the unit on the outside of the house, it still could be vented directly through the wall. Most applications are less expensive if the venting is minimized.
There are many types of Direct vent fireplaces to chose from BUT my recomendation would be to spend a little more to get quality. I have experience with almost every manufacture and there is a huge difference in quality. Some things to compare are the weight of the fireplace, whether it has ceramic glass, and the warranty that the manufacture has assigned. I know of only one manufacture that will give a lifetime warranty. That is "Regency" and they have an extensive selection as well. I have replaced many sub-standard fireplaces with higher quality units. Builders can get some really good pricing but the lack of quality is usually what you end up with. Other brands to consider are "Fireplace Extraordinaire" "Hearthstone" and "Mendota". These are good quality also but have limeted warrantys.