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Cracks and gaps in firebox bricks and mortar are a potential fire hazard.
In most masonry fireplaces
the areas behind the firebox sidewalls are typically hollow, and since a
fire will produce a minimum of 500 degrees of heat, it will cause these
cracks and gaps to expand and can transfer the heat and gases to areas
behind the walls where there may be direct exposure to combustible building
materials such as wooden walls studs or drywall. |
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In most cases, it is possible to widen the
cracks and patch with a high temperature mortar patching material.
If the backwall in the firebox requires more extensive patching, we also recommend to
install a stainless steel Heat Shield for added protection since it will reduce
and spread the heat going to that area.
In more
extreme cases where the damage is
beyond just patching, we will refer you to an experienced chimney mason for a
more extensive repair. |
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Patching a firebox crack is not the same as
rebuilding the firebox.
While we do our best to make as clean a repair as
possible, you will see where it has been patched. Also, over time it is
likely that the area will need to be patched again, especially if the patching
was extensive.
The
Heat Shield
goes a long way toward protecting the patching. |
