How to Repair Holes in Interior Fireplaces?
Having a hole in your fireplace interior is not uncommon, but can be a major fire hazard. Not only can a hole allow hot embers to enter combustible materials, but it can also open up the fireplace for carbon monoxide poisoning. The good news is that it is easy to repair a small hole. Here are some of the steps you can take to fix this type of problem.
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Firstly, clean up the area where the hole is. This may involve using a shop vacuum or compressed air. Once you’ve removed the dirt, you can start patching the hole. You can do this with mortar or plaster. Depending on the size of the hole, you may need to cut a new piece of drywall to fit over the hole. If you decide to use plaster, make sure to apply three coats. After each coat, you’ll want to smooth the plaster so that it blends with the rest of the wall.
Next, you’ll need to find the right mortar. For example, you can use refractory caulk, which is designed specifically for fireplaces. Refractory caulk has silica in it for heat resistance. However, this is a temporary solution and is not recommended for large or serious cracks. Instead, you should consider getting a professional chimney contractor to do the job. Professionals can charge up to $300 to fix cracks in a fireplace.
Another option for fixing a hole in a fireplace is to repoint the joint. This will ensure that your bricks are in place, and that the joint is sealed. Alternatively, you can use a piece of acrylic mortar instead. Just make sure to buy a brand that is suitable for your type of fireplace.
Lastly, you can add a new mantel to your fireplace to add some style. A new mantel can change the look of the fireplace, and may add some depth to the room. While this can be a costly project, it can be a worthwhile one.
To get the best result, you’ll want to use a concave jointer. It’s a handy tool, as it can help you keep the edges of the mortar line clean. You’ll also want to work from the bottom up. This will help you see the extent of the joints’ penetration.
Whether you decide to do your own repairs or hire a professional, you’ll need the correct tools. If you’re working in an older home, you may have some mortar eroding due to the heating and cooling cycles. Be sure to vacuum up any dust or debris from the area so you don’t end up with a messy worksite.
Patching a hole in your fireplace is not as hard as it seems. You just need the right tools, and a little bit of time. Using a putty knife to smooth out the edges of the hole is a good first step. Using a masonry chisel, you can also break out the damaged brick from the fireplace.