Fireplaces are, of course, built to be durable. They must withstand years of direct contact with extremely hot logs and coals. Bricks are the material of choice, but they don’t last forever. They eventually crack or break from excess heat, or occasionally from repeated impact from falling logs. Families that love sitting by a hot fire on a warm winter’s day should keep an eye out for signs of degradation between fires so that they know when it’s time to call in a brick fireplace repair service in Baltimore MD.
Broken Bricks
Repairing cracked or broken bricks is a fairly quick and simple fix. They need only be removed and replaced with suitably sized new bricks before the fireplace can be used again. This is not, however, the only problem that can stop a fireplace from being safe to use.
Visible Gaps
If there is a gap between the fireplace’s face and its metal firebox that is visible to the naked eye, it should be repaired prior to the next use. The usual means of repair is to pack ceramic wool into the crack and use refractory cement on top of it to fill it in. However, this is only a temporary solution. These materials will eventually degrade and require replacement. Permanently solving this problem may require much more extensive repairs.
Dysfunctional Damper
Some of the most common problems requiring the help of a Brick Fireplace Repair Service in Baltimore MD involve the damper. Unfortunately, there are a lot of different reasons this essential component may not work properly. Most of these problems lead to heat loss, although some also lead to drafts and occasionally smoke escaping into the home. If it is not closing all the way, or not closing easily, it will need to be replaced. Older dampers are often replaced with more modern top-sealing dampers, which work much better.
There is no sense in putting off fireplace repairs. Continuing to use the fireplace with the knowledge that any of these, or other, problems are occurring can lead to further damage or even place the family in a dangerous situation. Check out website for more information or to find a contractor in the area.
