How Do You Repair a Fireplace?
When your fireplace is not working properly, it can be a major inconvenience. However, repairing a fireplace is not impossible, especially if you know what to look for and have the right tools.
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The first step is to make sure that the fireplace is completely cool before you do any repairs. This will help ensure that you don’t damage anything and prevent further complications. If you’re not comfortable doing this work yourself, it might be best to call a professional.
Soot accumulation in the fireplace is a common problem and can be caused by air circulation problems or a lack of gas pressure. Cleaning the fireplace with a feather duster and a vacuum cleaner can sometimes remove soot.
Rust is another common problem with fireplaces. This can occur when the metal parts that hold up the unit get old or if you don’t follow routine maintenance.
If you notice rust on any of the metal components in your fireplace, it’s likely time to have them replaced. A rusty fireplace can be a safety hazard, and it might even cause your entire unit to fail.
Typically, fireplaces have a protective coating over their metal that helps prevent rust. However, this protection isn’t always enough and will eventually break down.
A rusted-out fireplace will need to be replaced and may require the services of an electrician or gas fireplace specialist to do so. The average cost to replace a rusted-out fireplace is between $85 and $150.
Broken or chipped fire bricks can be fixed by removing the damaged section and replacing it with new brick. Preparing the surrounding work area will help speed up this process. Hang plastic drop cloths over any doors, windows, and hallway openings and tape them with painters’ tape.
Once the fire brick has been removed, use a trowel to apply a layer of fire cement to the damaged section. If there are more than one pieces of brick that need to be repaired, place a layer of cement along each side and push the pieces back together.
Then, apply heat at a gradually increasing temperature to the bricks for three to four hours. Once they’ve cooled, wipe them dry.
If you find a hole in the floor of your fireplace, it’s important to patch it promptly so that the material under it doesn’t become damaged by the high temperatures. This is because holes can allow dirt and debris to enter the house.
A crack in the safety screen of your fireplace can also result in health hazards if it is not repaired. When the screen breaks, it allows dangerous chemicals produced by your fire to leak through.
Some models have a glass safety screen that prevents these harmful chemicals from leaking into your home. When this screen is cracked, it’s important to stop using your fireplace until it is replaced.
Unlike the other components of a fireplace, this is a job that should be done by a professional. Not only are these parts expensive, but they can be dangerous if not handled correctly.