Can You Use a Fireplace with a Crack in it?

Although brick and stone are known for their long-lasting durability, even the toughest materials can be susceptible to damage over time, and chimneys are no exception. Even though you may only use a fireplace for a few months a year, you always need to keep an eye out for signs of repair or any cracks in it.

Your fireplace may develop cracks or gaps due to age, precipitation, or movement. By performing routine maintenance and prompt repairs as necessary, you can keep taking advantage of your fireplace while being warm and safe.

1. 4 Causes of Cracks in a Fireplace.

• Aging: The mortar joints in your house and fireplace may begin to disintegrate as they age, resulting in tiny cracks. This is a result of the building’s foundation’s continued settling, caused by years of heating and cooling.
• Issues with Maintenance: A fireplace’s bricks and stones must all undergo routine examination. Periodically resealing or reinforcing some parts may be necessary to stop cracks. If the chimney wasn’t built properly by an expert, it could be more prone to deterioration over time.
• Precipitation: Even the slightest flaws in a chimney may allow rain, snow, and ice to enter, causing leaks. In this case, the brickwork would gradually deteriorate and lead to wider fractures in the fireplace as a result of the repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Get in touch with our professional for gas fireplace repair in Fairfax, VA.
• Movement: The whole chimney can move as a result, particularly from natural disasters like earthquakes and tornadoes. Cracks may appear in and around the fireplace if the foundation at the base of the construction is too fragile to withstand little movements.

2. Why is it Vital to Repair a Crack in a Fireplace Right Away?

A properly constructed chimney contains two layers that are fire-resistant, such as two layers of brick, two walls of steel, or steel that has been insulated with stone wool. It is possible for flames to break through these layers as soon as a break forms and reach the combustible materials adjacent to the firebox.

Burning embers might also possibly blow through the gap and into the wall if the breach is bigger. No matter how minor, any fireplace crack should be repaired immediately since these are significant fire threats.

3. How to Repair a Fireplace?

• Repairs for Small Fireplace Cracks: You may get refractory caulk that is made especially for chimney fireboxes and certified for minor hairline cracks. Note that this approach is only ideal for modest repairs and never for massive cracks. First, you’ll need to clean up the crack and surrounding area to remove any loose mortar.
• Repairs to Larger Fireplace Cracks: Any cracks, gaps, or holes bigger than a hairline should be inspected by a chimney specialist or a licensed professional for fireplace repair in Fairfax, VA. Locate a certified contractor in your region because attempting to solve these problems on your own would be harmful.

In case you want to repair your fireplace, contact AVS Heating & Air Conditioning. Our team is always ready to serve you with the best possible methods. For more information on fireplace repair, visit our website.