Fireplace Insert Repair Cracks

Refractory brick panels line the firebox of a prefabricated metal fireplace.

Fireplace insert repair cracks.

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. Check out your fireplace. House fires can occur if there are cracks in the refractory panels that allow excessive heat to transfer through the cracks to the metal shell box and to the wood framing. For deeper cracks apply multiple layers.

In both cases the bricks and fireclay mortar are designed to withstand extreme temperatures. When these fine cracks occur you can rest assured that the homeowner can enjoy the fireplace with absolutely no danger. I had never used the fireplace in the 5 years i lived here. This helps your unit work more effectively.

I had a chimney sweep clean it out and he told me to fix it or replace the insert. However over time the brick mortar or panels can crack and crumble creating a serious fire hazard. Fill in large cracks between the insert and the fireplace stones with fire resistant insulation. Manufactured fireplaces often have refractory concrete like panels in them to limit the transfer of heat in the firebox area.

Apply no thicker than 1 8 rdquo. Quikrete fireplace repair mortar is a silicate based refractory cement caulk for tuck pointing damaged fireplace mortar joints and repairing cracked or chipped firebricks in fireplaces and wood burning stoves. You should also replace fireplace refractory if the surface is abraded to 1 4 of an inch. In fact there is metal behind the refractory on a factory built fireplace.

If you have a concrete insert you could be putting your entire house in danger. Push the insulation in with your fingers making. 3 mm in one application. The chimney safety institute of america csia warns that a cracked fireplace refractory should be replaced if the crack is 1 16 of an inch wide or you can fit the end of a nickel into it.

Therefore even if the cracks get larger the fireplace will still operate safely.