Turn Your Firebox Repair into a Fireplace Renewal
The firebox of a fireplace that’s well-used year after year, being frequently exposed to the searing temperatures of blazing-hot fires, will often fall into a state of disrepair. A firebox with deteriorating mortar joints and crumbling bricks is one of the things that your professional chimney sweep can help you identify as a hazard. If the firebox doesn’t properly contain the heat, your home could be in danger of catching fire; it’s essential to conduct a firebox repair. While you’re getting a rebuild for safety reasons, why not give your fireplace a fresh new look?
Keep in mind that an often-used fireplace does not have to have a firebox that’s a blackened mess. If you use clean-burning logs and give your fireplace a good scrubbing at least annually, the firebox will appear clean at all times and add significantly to the pleasant aesthetics of your fireplace.
You must, of course, use firebricks which are specially made to withstand the extreme temperatures in a firebox, and special high-temperature refractory mortar must also be used. Choose a special design with the appropriate materials as you restore your firebox to structural integrity.
While getting a firebox repair, there are many additional options you have to increase the beauty and change the appearance of your fireplace. Firebricks can be laid in a herringbone design pattern, for example. The type of brick you use can give a modern look or an upgraded antique appearance. Thin strips of firebricks can be laid in a vertical pattern which creates the effect of narrow books on a shelf; separate the vertical rows with thin horizontal layers. With any of these types of upgrades, your fireplace can be more of a showpiece than ever. Imagine the added pleasure you could have as you watch the dance of the flames encased in a new, well-designed firebox.
There are other ways to give your fireplace a nice facelift, even if no firebox repairs are needed. The outer hearth is a feature which can add a whole new look to the room while providing protection. You can choose tiles of different colors and varied patterns. There are also highly artistic tiles that you could use which could brighten your room or add a new dimension to your décor.
The mantel shelf and surround has traditionally been a focal point of the fireplace, though in modern days there is often times no mantel at all. A change in the type of mantelpiece you use or eliminating the mantel altogether could create a pleasing effect. You may not even need to switch out the mantel; for example, simply paint it and put vases on it instead of photographs or vice versa.
Another great option which creates a new look and at the same time could take the place of rebuilding your firebox is a fireplace insert. The metal insert will fit right into your firebox and provide a much more efficient wood, pellet or gas burning appliance. Fireplace inserts add much more heat to your home, whereas traditional fireplaces tend to lose most of the heat up the chimney. There are many different styles to choose from, all of which offer you a quick and easy way to achieve a complete makeover. A chimney sweep should be consulted both to make sure you get the correct size and to install the insert. A correctly installed fireplace insert keeps your home safe and at the same time can significantly offset your heating costs too.
If you’re not entirely happy with the way your fireplace looks, why not go beyond making needed repairs? A fireplace transformation could give you more enjoyment. As an added bonus, the upgrade will also increase the value of your home.
Talk to the chimney, stove and fireplace professionals at Northeastern Chimney for any maintenance, cleaning, repair or improvements that you may be considering.
Northeastern Chimney, Inc
37 Cody Street, West Hartford, CT 06110
Phone: 860-233-5770