We Specialize In Brick And Stone Fireplace Structural Repairs
Fireplace Structural Repairs
The Heat Generated By a Fireplace Over Many Years Can Cause Structural Damage
Does your fireplace need structural repairs? Do you have cracks in your mortar? Loose bricks or blocks? Over time and many heat cycles the masonry holding your fireplace together can become cracked and you’ll start to notice loose brick or stone. There are other indicators as well such as the fireplace leaning to one side, or starting to actually collapse in some circumstances. If your fireplace and chimney has cracks in the mortar then you’re going to need structural repairs.
What Causes Fireplace and Chimney Cracks?
If your home is rather old it is possible the fireplace was built with a lime mortar, instead of today's Portland based mortars. The acid in the creosote , the heat from the fire eventually breaks down this mortar and turns it to a dusty, sandy material.
If your home was built after 1940 or 1950 chances are the fireplace is built with a Portland based mortar. These mortars are great, but they have their limitations. One of their limitations is that Portland starts to break down after reaching a certain temperature, somewhere around 800 degrees.
The other characteristic of a Portland based mortar is that is has trouble rapidly expanding and will cause cracking or spalling of the material it is used to construct.
Often water intrusion and really cold weather (freezing weather) is the cause for a great deal of chimney cracks and structural issues but it’s not usually the culprit behind a failing fireplace.
Last but not least is the possibility that the chimney and fireplace were just poorly put together. We run into this often and it’s often no fault of the homeowner as they may not have been the original owner, or the person who installed the chimney.
What Can Go Wrong With a Cracked Fireplace or Chimney?
Obviously the mortar that holds your fireplace isn’t supposed to have cracks. This can pose several dangers to your home. A cracked chimney flue for example could mean that your chimney might not be venting outside correctly, instead venting soot and dangerous gases into your home. Cracks in the fireplace or chimney could also pose a risk of fire or at worst case scenario a total structural failure of their the fireplace or chimney or both, (leaning or pulling away from the house). We’ve had to fix this before fairly often.
What Do You Do About Your Damaged Chimney or Fireplace?
If you are actively using the fireplace then both the fireplace and chimney must be in good working condition. Consulting with a fireplace and chimney specialist would be a wise idea if you feel there might be something wrong with your fireplace. With a very thorough inspection a fireplace specialist can determine what (if any) repairs need to be made.
Who Provides Fireplace Structural Repairs in Massachusetts?
We offer our fireplace structural repair services throughout Worcester County, Middlesex County, and Norfolk County. If you'd like to schedule an estimate for your fireplace structural repair project please give us a call (978) 365-6800 or fill out our online contact form and we'll get right back to you.
What Causes Damage to Brick or Stone Masonry Fireplaces?
Moisture Infiltration: One of the primary causes of damage to masonry fireplaces is moisture infiltration. Water can enter through cracks in the chimney crown, gaps in the mortar, or damaged flashing. Over time, the freeze-thaw cycle causes the water to expand and contract, leading to spalling (flaking of the brick or stone surface), cracking, and deterioration of the mortar joints.
Settling and Foundation Issues: The foundation of your home can shift over time due to soil movement, causing cracks and structural damage to the fireplace. This can lead to uneven settling, which puts stress on the masonry, resulting in cracks and instability.
Thermal Expansion: Frequent heating and cooling cycles cause the masonry materials to expand and contract. This thermal movement can lead to cracks in the brick, stone, or mortar, compromising the structural integrity of the fireplace.
Chimney Fires: Creosote buildup inside the chimney flue can ignite and cause chimney fires, which can severely damage the masonry. High temperatures can crack the bricks and mortar, leading to significant structural issues.
Age and Wear: Over time, even the most well-constructed fireplaces can suffer from wear and tear. The mortar joints can erode, bricks can become loose, and the overall structure can weaken due to constant use and exposure to the elements.
We offer our masonry services throughout Worcester County, Middlesex County, and Norfolk County. If you'd like to schedule an estimate for your fireplace structural repair project please give us a call (978) 365-6800 or fill out our online contact form and we'll get right back to you.
What Are The Most Common Fireplace Structural Repairs We Complete?
Tuck Pointing: This involves removing deteriorated mortar from the joints and replacing it with new, matching mortar. Tuck pointing restores the structural integrity and appearance of the fireplace, preventing further moisture infiltration and damage.
Brick and Stone Replacement: Damaged or spalled bricks and stones are removed and replaced with new ones. This repair is essential to maintain the structural stability and aesthetic appeal of the fireplace.
Chimney Crown Repair: The chimney crown is the topmost part of the chimney that prevents water from entering. Repairing or replacing a damaged crown is crucial to stop water infiltration and protect the chimney structure.
Flashing Repair: Flashing is the metal barrier that seals the gap between the chimney and the roof. Repairing or replacing damaged flashing prevents water from seeping into the masonry and causing deterioration.
Foundation Repair: If the fireplace foundation has shifted or settled unevenly, foundation repair techniques such as underpinning or slab jacking can be used to stabilize and level the structure, preventing further cracking and damage.
Firebox Repair: The firebox is the interior part of the fireplace where the fire burns. Repairs may involve replacing damaged bricks, fixing mortar joints, or installing new refractory panels to ensure the firebox is safe and efficient.
Smoke Chamber Parging: Parging the smoke chamber involves smoothing the interior surface with a high-temperature mortar. This improves the draft and reduces creosote buildup, enhancing the efficiency and safety of the fireplace.
We offer our masonry services throughout Worcester County, Middlesex County, and Norfolk County. If you'd like to schedule an estimate for your fireplace structural repair project please give us a call (978) 365-6800 or fill out our online contact form and we'll get right back to you.
Why Choose JB Mohler Masonry For Your Fireplace Structural Repair Services?
We know you have dozens of choices when it comes to hiring a masonry contractor for structural repairs to your fireplace in central Massachusetts. Here's what makes us different.
#1. We're a family owned and operated local company. We care about our community, and we care about our reputation for quality craftsmanship, honest advice, and we provide an unbeatable customer experience.
#2. We have a 4.5 star rating on Google. It shows that we consistently exceed our clients expectations and we have an excellent track record of customer satisfaction.
#3. We are your local fireplace structural repair experts. We can solve any and all problems you might be having with your brick or stone fireplace. We've seen it all!
#4. Our pricing is competitive and we always go the extra mile. We provide competitive quotes and we always offer the best value for our clients.
We offer our fireplace repair services throughout Worcester County, Middlesex County, and Norfolk County. If you'd like to schedule an estimate for your fireplace structural repair project please give us a call (978) 365-6800 or fill out our online contact form and we'll get right back to you.
Do You Have Questions About Fireplace Structural Repair?
Signs that your fireplace may need structural repair include visible cracks in the bricks or mortar, crumbling or loose bricks, water stains or dampness around the fireplace, smoke leakage into the room, and an unstable or leaning chimney. If you notice any of these issues, it’s best to consult a professional for an assessment.
It is recommended to inspect your fireplace and chimney at least once a year, ideally before the start of the heating season. Regular inspections help identify and address any potential issues early, ensuring your fireplace remains safe and functional. If you are purchasing a new to you home with a brick or stone fireplace it's a good idea to have it inspected by a professional to ensure you don't get any surprises after taking possession of the home.
Yes, water damage is a significant concern for masonry fireplaces. Water can enter through cracks, damaged flashing, or a compromised chimney crown, leading to spalling bricks, deteriorating mortar, and overall structural damage. Proper waterproofing and timely repairs are essential to prevent water damage.
Yes, we offer warranties on our fireplace repair services. The specific terms of the warranty vary depending on the type of repair. We will provide detailed warranty information during the consultation.
We use high-quality materials that match the existing masonry as closely as possible. This includes durable mortar mixes, replacement bricks or stones, waterproofing agents, and refractory materials for firebox repairs.
If you need to repair a structurally damaged fireplace, we can help you!
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