Restoring the firebox, damper and face in Poinsettia Heights
Brick fireplace restoration follows a set order, from the firebox to the face and the hearth.
- Owned and run locally
- Available for same-day service
- Fully licensed and insured
- Family owned and run
What a neglected brick fireplace shows
- Open joints on the firebox walls
- Smoke stains above the opening
- Patches in mismatched mortar
- Debris or nesting in the firebox
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Old fireplace restoration, step by step
Essential items and optional ones
Not every line on a restoration estimate carries the same weight. Some items protect the fire from reaching what it should not, or keep smoke moving up the flue. Others improve the look.
We label each item so you can tell the difference. Essential items are those we would want done before regular fires. Optional items are there because you asked for the original look to return. You can accept, defer or decline any optional line without affecting the safety work.
An ash dump door in the firebox floor
An ash dump is a small hinged metal door set into the firebox floor of some masonry fireplaces. Ash swept through it drops into a chamber below. After years without use, the door can rust shut, lose its hinge or sit loose in its frame.
We check whether the door opens, closes and sits flush with the floor. A loose or broken door can let embers fall where they should not. Depending on its condition, we free, reset or replace the door, or explain the option of closing it off. The ash chamber itself is checked where it can be reached.
The steel support above the fireplace opening
Across the top of the opening runs the lintel, a noncombustible support that is often a steel angle. It carries the masonry above the opening. Rust can swell it, bend it or crack the brick above.
We check the lintel for rust, sag and cracks in the brick it supports. Surface rust can be treated. A lintel that has lost strength or pushed the face out of line is a larger repair and is priced separately. We explain what we see before any work above the opening begins.
Fine lines in firebrick
Firebrick expands and contracts with every fire, and fine surface lines are common in a firebox that has been used. Not every line is a reason for replacement.
We check whether a line is shallow or runs through the brick, and whether the brick is still firmly held. Shallow lines in sound units can usually stay. Cracks that go through, loose units and missing pieces are the ones we replace. We explain the difference in the firebox itself, so you can see what we mean.
How a restoration estimate is laid out
- Face joints repointed with matched mortar
- Loose stones reset on a stone face
- Workmanship warranty on the completed work
- Open flue covered at the close of each day
Common fireplace restoration questions
What if parts for my factory-built unit are discontinued?
We check for manufacturer-approved alternatives. If none exist, we explain what that means for the fireplace. Unlisted parts are not fitted, because the listing depends on the tested components working together.
When can I light a fire after the restoration?
Once the new mortar has dried and cured as its maker directs. Some heat-resistant mortars call for small fires before full use. We tell you how long to wait and how to build those early fires.
What happens if you find hidden damage partway through?
We stop and explain it. The finding, the proposed repair and the price are set out before we continue. Nothing is added to the job without your approval, and the estimate is updated in writing.
More Ways to Care for Your Fireplace
- Gas Fireplace VentingAssess and repair the gas fireplace vent arrangement using components suited to the identified system.
- Chimney Crown RepairRepair the damaged chimney top with an approach matched to the crown and supporting masonry.
- Chimney WaterproofingTreat suitable chimney masonry after checking the surface, repair needs and product requirements.
- Chimney RebuildRebuild the affected chimney section with the retained structure, roof connection and passage included in the plan.
- Chimney Sweep and Chimney CleaningArrange careful chimney cleaning in Miami with a defined scope, protected work area and useful findings.
Proudly American
Local service. Careful repairs. A fireplace worth coming home to.
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Chimney & Fireplace Brands We Work With
DuraVent 
Olympia Chimney and Venting 
Copperfield Chimney Supply 
Rutland 
Heatilator 
Heat & Glo