Fireplace and Chimney Issues to Look For

FACT: NOT ALL FIREBOXES ARE THE SAME.

The firebox is the area where the logs are placed when building a fire. This area surrounds the flames and is made with firebricks and a high heat cement mixture called refractory mortar. Not all fireboxes are built with the correct firebricks or heat resistant plaster, and that is why some do not last as long as others. Exposure also plays a factor. A firebox with sustained use exposes the brick to extreme flame temperatures, and over a period of time, promotes deterioration.

We encourage you to look, or of course have us take a look, to identify crumbling in the firebox or mortar damage. If you see decay in the mortar, loose bricks or feel air coming through the firebox bricks, do not use it.

FACT: BASEMENTS AND ATTICS ARE BAD ENVIRONMENTS TO FOUNDATIONS, SUPPORT COLUMNS AND CHIMNEYS.

Any exposed masonry in basements and attics tend to decay faster than any other area, including the outdoors. With them being out of sight out of mind you probably don’t even know it! The reason is due to the atmosphere in these areas: they are either hot and humid in the summer months or cold and dry in the winter months. These extreme environments combined with excess moisture will accelerate the deterioration process tremendously. We would recommend you get these areas inspected, and if needed, repaired immediately before any additional damage is incurred.

Call Us at 1-781-893-6611 to Schedule

  • Inside Foundation Repairs
  • Support Columns
  • Exposed Chimney in Basement and Attic
Top