How to Repair a Fireplace Insert?
A fireplace insert is a great way to upgrade your existing masonry fireplace. Not only will it save you money by replacing an old and inefficient firebox, but it will also help to improve your home’s energy efficiency. There are three main advantages to installing an insert: increased energy efficiency, improved safety, and added insulation.
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It is not uncommon for a masonry fireplace to have cracks or other defects. You should have a professional inspect your chimney and fireplace to see if it is in need of repair. If the liner is cracked, you will probably need to replace it. Also, the fireplace may need a new gasket.
Fortunately, this is an easy job. The cost is dependent on the type of fireplace, its size, and how much time you have to spare. Gas and electric inserts require more expertise. Having a seasoned contractor perform your firebox removal is a good idea. They can make sure the new insert is installed correctly and that the chimney is working with the new design.
Removing a wood fireplace can be a do-it-yourself job if you have the right tools. However, you may have to call in professional help if the chimney is too high or if your fireplace insert is too large to fit through the opening. Depending on the model, removing your fireplace may be as simple as dismantling the unit or as complex as a full reconstruction.
One of the first things you should do is check the fireplace to see if it is equipped with the smallest and most efficient gasket you can buy. This is the largest determining factor in the cost of your firebox restoration project.
Besides the usual maintenance, you should have a qualified chimney sweep inspect your home for fireplace flue repairs. A chimney sweep will tell you if your flue needs work and can even recommend a solution. While you’re at it, the sweep will give you the proper safety measures to take to prevent a house fire.
Keeping your new fireplace clean is the key to enjoying your new unit. You will need to check the smoke chamber and chimney for creosote and debris. Likewise, you should clean the ash pan and burn the pot on a regular basis. Cleaning the fan is also a good idea. Ideally, the unit should be cleaned twice a year, and the interior cleaned as often as possible.
Although a fireplace is a good thing, it can be a bad thing. Unless you are a trained expert, you could be putting your family’s life at risk. Especially if you have a gas fireplace, which is not regulated in the same way as a wood stove. Moreover, a poorly constructed fireplace can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, which is not a good thing.
Luckily, there are plenty of options for homeowners who want to update their fireplaces. Fireplace inserts come in all shapes and sizes, so there is likely an option that will meet your needs and budget.