Repairing Guides

how to repair wood burning fireplace

by Mr. Bryce Kilback PhD Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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Directions (for Individually applied Fire Brick):

  1. Clean any soot, grease or dust from the fire brick that is to be repaired – allow brick to dry before beginning the...
  2. Apply fire cement to the area that is being repaired, using the trowel. If the brick has broken into more than one...
  3. Apply heat to the fire brick, gradually increasing the temperature over a...

Part of a video titled Firebox Repairs - YouTube
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Basically we need to take back the mortar join it at least an inch. And we have to use a highMoreBasically we need to take back the mortar join it at least an inch. And we have to use a high temperature mortar.

Full Answer

How do you clean a wood burning fireplace?

Oregonians are lighting up their fireplaces and stoves again as colder, wetter weather returns, and they'll have to do their part to keep their smoke from contributing to air quality problems. Burning wood produces particulate matter that, when dispersed ...

How to properly burn wood in a fireplace?

Burning wood produces particulate matter that ... Be smoke free: Wood stoves and fireplaces should be smoke free when properly installed and used correctly. Check your chimney: If opaque smoke is rising from your chimney, it means your fire is inefficient ...

What is the average cost to repair a fireplace?

You need a professional to conduct the repairs when damage occurs to yours. The national cost average to repair a fireplace is between $200 and $1,000. Most homeowners pay around $600 to repoint a damaged section of a brick fireplace. Costs can be much higher or lower, depending on the problem and the amount of work required to fix it.

How to keep a wood burning fireplace clean?

  • Turn off the unit.
  • Remove or open glass doors.
  • Dust your logs, stones, andirons or hearth with a clean cloth. ...
  • Vacuum vents with a hand vacuum or hose attachment.
  • Use a duster or damp clean cloth to wipe down the inside and outside of your fireplace walls.
  • Clean the glass doors that cover your fireplace. ...

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Can you repair the inside of a fireplace?

Refractory caulk, also known as fireplace mortar, is suitable for minor repairs only. If your fireplace has broken or crumbling bricks, large gaps in the mortar, or missing mortar, have a professional mason or fireplace contractor inspect it.

How do you fix a cracked firebox?

0:243:21how to fix firebox crack, cracked fireplace, fireplace repair - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipStore just a heads up all right so we've got this vacuumed out but it says that we need to wipe itMoreStore just a heads up all right so we've got this vacuumed out but it says that we need to wipe it with a wet sponge. So we're just gonna kind of get all the dust off of it.

How much does it cost to rebuild a firebox in a fireplace?

Firebox Repair Cost Fixing a firebox costs $160 to $750. A stone firebox that needs rebuilding can cost upwards of $1,500 or $2,500.

How much does it cost to replace the inside of a fireplace?

Depending on your firebox's age, style, and the extent of the issue, repairs could cost between $160 and $750 and total replacement from upwards of $2,500.

Can you use a fireplace with a crack in it?

When these fine cracks occur, you can rest assured that the homeowner can enjoy the fireplace with absolutely no danger! In fact, there is metal behind the refractory on a factory-built fireplace; therefore, even if the cracks get larger, the fireplace will still operate safely.

Is it bad to have a crack in your fireplace?

Cracks and damage in the firebox can be a serious hazard if not addressed immediately. The high heat that exists in the firebox itself can transfer through cracks and damage structural materials in your home. This can also risk fire and allow carbon monoxide intrusion.

How much does it cost to replace fireplace panels?

Fireplace Repair Cost by Type of ReplacementReplacementAverage Costs (Labor Included)Panel$100 - $300Refractory Panels$100 - $300/panelGlass$100 - $350Firebox$350 - $2,5005 more rows•Sep 13, 2021

What are fireplace refractory panels made of?

If you have a masonry fireplace, then refractory panels are constructed from heat resistant bricks and mortar. If you have a factory-built fireplace, the panels are made from stainless steel or other metal. Typically, each firebox has four refractory panels that line the side and back walls.

How much does it cost to replace wood burning fireplace?

Wood stove installation costs between $3,000 to $4,000 on average, not counting the price of the stove, and costs will vary depending on the height of the stovepipe and whether a flue can be updated or must be newly installed.

How much does it cost to rebuild a fireplace?

Rebuilding or remodeling a fireplace costs $390 to $2,000. Costs are lower for smaller fireplaces or fireplaces that reuse materials (such as bricks or stones). Building a new gas, wood-burning, or stone fireplace from scratch is $1,900 to $5,600. A new electric fireplace costs anywhere from $100 to $2,200.

What is the firebox of a fireplace?

The firebox is the open-to-the-room, inner section of the fireplace where you light and burn fires. As the name suggests, a firebox has a standard box-like shape. It features a flat base, three walls, and an opening at the front and top. Since the fire burns inside of it, the walls and floor must be non-combustible.

How do you maintain a wood fireplace?

Fireplace Maintenance: 10 Tips for Maintaining a Wood-Burning FireplaceClean the Interior of the Fireplace. ... Install Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Alarms. ... Remove Soot and Creosote Buildup. ... Check the Chimney and its Cap. ... Use the Right Wood. ... Test the Fireplace Before Using It. ... Install a Blower and Heat Proof Glass Door.More items...•

How do you repair a ceramic firebox?

1:0610:14Kamado: Reconstruction of Shattered Firebox, Side Damage ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAfter doing some research online we concluded that Imperial high temp stove and furnace cement wouldMoreAfter doing some research online we concluded that Imperial high temp stove and furnace cement would be the best adhesive to repair the firebox this cement was designed for this type of repair.

Can you repair cracked fire bricks?

Directions (for Individually applied Fire Brick): Apply fire cement to the area that is being repaired, using the trowel. If the brick has broken into more than one piece, apply a layer of cement along one edge of the break and push the pieces firmly back together.

What causes cracks in fireplace?

Causes of cracks Panels may become cracked or damaged due to excessive heat from an improper fire in the firebox area. The fire may have been built too large or not positioned correctly in the fireplace; therefore the panels get exposed to excessive heat.

How do I replace the back panel on my fireplace?

1:593:50How to install prefab fireplace panels - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOnce the top bracket or cowling has been removed using a flat bar or flat screwdriver at the base ofMoreOnce the top bracket or cowling has been removed using a flat bar or flat screwdriver at the base of panel as leverage is lifted up out of place.

What are the benefits of a fireplace insert?

Not only will you achieve a new look with the fireplace insert, but you will also gain practical benefits such as: A fireplace insert will allow the heat to stay inside your home rather than going up the chimney.

Why do you need a chimney sweep?

A chimney sweep inspect your fireplace and chimney so that breaches in the safety of the unit are identified and repaired. That is the main purpose of the inspection. However, a professional is not always needed to know that the firebox is beyond simple repair. If you notice that the bricks in the firebox are crumbling and you see the mortar joints have deteriorated, then be sure that you have a fire hazard in your house.

Is a fireplace insert more expensive than a fireplace?

A fireplace insert is way less expensive than a fireplace repair. A fireplace insert burns more efficiently than the traditional fireplace. A fireplace insert will allow the heat to stay inside your home rather than going up the chimney. Since your fireplace will add heat, then your heating bills will be reduced.

Can you switch from tile to brick?

You can switch from tiles to bricks, or vice versa. Tiles come in many different colors and patterns, and they are easy to install. Achieving complete fireplace revitalization can be accomplished through changing the outer hearth.

Can you replace a fireplace with a floor to ceiling look?

If you think that your fireplace looks horribly outdated, don’t worry, you don’t have to be stuck with it . It is so easy to replace the entire floor to ceiling look of the fireplace. A simple change in the design can make your fireplace a centerpiece in your home. You will soon take great delight in your fireplace.

Can you use a fireplace without a sound box?

You may be informed one day that you will have to repair your firebox. A professional chimney sweep will tell you how unsafe it is to use a fireplace without a sound firebox. You will have to take immediate action. Although this might seem like bad news, it has a good side: repairing your firebox is a great opportunity to update your fireplace’s ...

What can go wrong with a fireplace?

Various things can go wrong with a fireplace and chimney. Here are just some of the common causes of fireplace problems: Chimney: these structures don’t look complicated, but chimneys are very complex. Chimneys are built to keep your home and family safe from heat, water, smoke and the elements.

Why do we need chimneys?

Chimneys are built to keep your home and family safe from heat, water, smoke and the elements. If anything goes wrong within a stack, the effect can be devastating. When it comes to keeping your chimney in good repair, regular maintenance is vital.

Is a chimney a complex structure?

Chimney: these structures don’t look complicated, but chimneys are very complex. Chimneys are built to keep your home and family safe from heat, water, smoke and the elements. If anything goes wrong within a stack, the effect can be devastating. When it comes to keeping your chimney in good repair, regular maintenance is vital. This includes annual inspections, cleanings (chimney sweepings), repointing and more. In some cases, damage may even require a complete reconstruction. No matter what problems occur, our professional team is ready to get to work to put your fireplace back in working order.

Do gas fireplaces need repairs?

Offering some of the lowest maintenance when it comes to owning and operating a fireplace, gas fireplaces and inserts still need repairs from time to time. In most cases, problems occur with the pilot light, main valve, and air circulation.

Is it safe to keep a fireplace in good working order?

Keeping your fireplace in good working order is essential to enjoying its full potential. When problems arise, be sure to choose a fireplace repair company that can handle every job with ease, offering the kind of security you demand to keep your home and family safe.

Can a fireplace be reinforced?

Structural problems: over time even the best-built fireplace may deteriorate. When this happens, your masonry may need to be reinforced or replaced. Whether you need basic pointing or a complete brick overhaul, our team knows what to do to bring your fireplace up to code and make it safe to use once again.

Can wood burning fireplaces deteriorate?

After extensive use, the grates can deteriorate. Wood burning fireplaces can also develop drafting issues. Obstructions can form in the pipe causing smoke to exit from the fireplace or stove rather than the chimney. When problems occur, they need to be fixed.

What are the components of a fireplace?

There are three main components to your fireplace; the firebox itself (Modular, Masonry or Metal), the damper / chimney system and the fire brick liner. Fire bricks absorb heat, providing a buffer between the fire and the firebox, maintaining a high temperature and preventing damage to the wall behind a fireplace.

Can a mason repair a cracked fire brick?

NOTE: Though each individual mason may have their own technique because of geographic conditions or training, these are some general procedures for repairing cracked fire brick.

Can fire bricks fall out?

Fire brick mortar and/or fire bricks can become damaged after years of use which can cause a fire brick to fall out or crack. A cracked or damaged fire brick can be a potential fire hazard and should be repaired or replaced before using the fireplace again.

How much does it cost to repair a gas fireplace?

Natural gas pipes are the lifeline for gas fireplaces. If there is a problem with the gas line, a plumber can fix it, at an hourly cost of $50 to $200. The most expensive part of a gas fireplace is its insert. Insert plus installation and venting can range from $1,500 to $4,500. Since the cost of installing a new gas fireplace to an existing gas line runs from $6,000 to $8,000, this can be considered the top range for repairing the units, as well.

What is a gas fireplace?

Gas fireplaces have supplanted wood-burning fireplaces as the fireplace of choice in most homes built or remodeled today. These fireplaces draw natural gas that may already be used in other parts of the home for the water heater or kitchen stove. Gas pipes run into a firebox with an insert of flame-proof artificial logs. Flames curl around the logs in a designed shape and spread. There is no need to strike a match since most gas fireplaces ignite with a switch. Since the fireplace produces no ashes, clean-up is minimal.

Is a gel fuel fireplace good?

If you want to get your fireplace up and running fast, and for little money, a gel fuel fireplace is a good choice. Ethanol or alcohol gel fuel fireplaces are clean-burning and apartment-friendly. Gel fuel fireplaces' condensed flames dance in a low, orderly fashion—the direct opposite of the raging, chaotic flames of wood fireplaces.

Do gas fireplaces have ashes?

There is no need to strike a match since most gas fireplaces ignite with a switch. Since the fireplace produces no ashes, clean-up is minimal.

Do fireplaces need to be repaired?

But because fireplaces do a lot of work, they bear more than their share of maintenance issues. Heat and smoke deal out a great burden of abuse to fireplaces, so occasional repairs are an expected component of owning a fireplace. Fireplace repair costs can vary because the types of fireplaces can vary greatly— gas fireplaces, traditional wood-burning fireplaces, or gel fuel fireplaces .

Can a mason repair a wood burning fireplace?

Wood-burning fireplaces may require the services of an experienced mason for firebox repointing and rebuilding. Any loose bricks or mortar should be addressed immediately as they can lead to fires. Chimneys above the roofline that are eroding, too, should be repaired by a mason.

Does a gas fireplace clean up?

Since the fireplace produces no ashes, clean-up is minimal. Yet some users find gas fireplaces' flames to be too tame and predictable. The gas line hookup requires a licensed plumber, and gas fireplaces' venting should be handled by a skilled technician, as well.

How much does it cost to fix a gas fireplace?

The gas fireplace repair cost that you’ll pay depends on what type of repair you need. The average fireplace repair price is between $40 and $60, but some repairs could cost as much as $2,000. Some of the most common repairs for a gas fireplace are failed pilot lights, fogged-up glass and issues with the remote control or thermostat system. If you have a gas fireplace, it’s comforting to know that almost all parts can be repaired or replaced, which can extend the life of your fireplace.

What is the purpose of a fireplace?

There’s just nothing like curling up by a fire on a cold afternoon. This type of fireplace requires a chimney to vent smoke and its byproducts out of your home, since these can cause health and safety hazards if left inside your home. Inside the chimney is a flue—a pipe that vents smoke—and a damper, which controls the intensity of your fire by keeping cold air out and warm air inside your home. Below is a picture that shows the different parts of a chimney:

Why is pellet stove so popular?

The pellet fireplace is rising in popularity today. That’s likely due to its super-efficient burn capability, and ease of use. Small pellets are made from byproducts of sawmills, making them an environmentally friendly option for those concerned with clean energy sources. A fireplace repair to a pellet stove should be handled by a qualified electrician.

How much does it cost to repair a pellet stove?

According to Fixr, you can expect to pay between $300 and $500 if you need to have a professional come to repair your pellet stove, with the average cost of fireplace repair for a pellet stove at $400. A thorough cleaning will cost around $130, while a circuit board replacement could run as much as $800.

How much does it cost to repair a chimney?

Masons charge between $70 and $110 per hour, so this is a good ballpark for the fireplace repair cost. If your chimney is in disrepair and needs to be rebuilt, you can expect to pay $2,000 to $5,000 depending on the exact nature of the job that needs to be done.

Can a mason repair a wood burning fireplace?

As you can see from the diagram above, wood fireplaces consist of many different parts, each of which is essential to keeping your home safe. If there’s a problem with your wood-burning fireplace, you may need to hire an experienced mason to do the work. They can handle tasks like firebox repointing and rebuilding. This is an essential repair, since loose bricks or mortar can increase the risk of fire in your home.

Does a gas fireplace need a chimney?

A gas fireplace uses natural gas to heat your home. This no-fuss type of fireplace doesn’t require a chimney, but rather, uses just a pipe to remove any byproducts from your home. Many models allow you to control the flame using a remote or a thermostat, and this type of fireplace doesn’t produce smoke or buildup in your home or chimney.

What type of pipe is used for a factory built fireplace?

These types of chimney pipe twist-lock together.

What is a wood burning insert?

A wood burning insert is basically a modified wood burning stove, with-out legs or a base, that’s slid into the existing fireplace. Small, medium and large inserts are available, depending on the size of the old fireplace. A 6” stainless steel liner is installed up the existing chimney.

What is the purpose of a chimney flue?

This ‘chimney’ acts as the housing or conduit for the chimney flue/liner. The function of a chimney flue is to simply route all the by-products of combustion out of the fireplace, stove or insert. This flue liner also needs to withstand very hot temperatures in order to protect the chimney walls and the integrity of the chimney structure.

How long are chimney tiles?

These tiles are normally 24” in length. The lengths were connected with mortar at the time the chimney was originally built. However, both the mortar joints and the clay tiles can deteriorate over time because of the high flue temperatures and extreme weather conditions.

Can a chimney be torn down?

Incidentally, this is also a good option if your chimney has deteriorated to the point where it’s a liability or simply not worth rebuilding. If the chimney can be torn down below the roofline, the two vent pipes for a gas insert can be combined to one, co-axial pipe.

Can you use a fireplace insert for gas?

However, if you want to use the fireplace on a regular basis and realize significant heat from the fuel that’s used, consider installing an insert. Fireplace inserts are designed for wood, gas, pellets or electricity.

Can you restore a chimney flue liner?

Depending on the circumstances, there are a few possibilities that could be options to restore a masonry chimney flue liner. If you plan to continue to burn wood in an open fireplace, removing the old tile liner and then installing a new cast-in-place liner may be your best bet.

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