Old fireplace restoration with a clear plan in Rio Vista
Safe working order comes first. The original look follows, with materials that match what is already there.
- Owned and run locally
- Available for same-day service
- Fully licensed and insured
- Family owned and run
Restoration needs you can spot from the room
- Fireplace unused for many years
- Damper that no longer moves
- Smoke stains above the opening
- Firebox floor worn or broken
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Restoration work inside and around the firebox
Checking how the restored fireplace draws
Once the work is complete and the mortar has cured as directed, the fireplace should draw smoke up the flue without spilling into the room. That is the test that matters most.
We explain how to judge the draft on the early fires and what to watch for. If smoke spills, let the fire burn out and tell us. The cause may be something outside the restored parts, such as the flue or the air supply in the house, and we explain what that would involve.
Brick fireplace restoration from firebox to face
A brick fireplace has two kinds of brick doing two jobs. Firebrick lines the firebox and takes the heat. Face brick frames the opening and gives the fireplace its look.
Brick fireplace restoration treats each kind on its own terms. Firebrick is set and pointed in heat-rated mortar. Face brick is cleaned gently and repointed with a mortar matched to its color and strength. The estimate lists firebox work and face work separately, so you can see where the effort goes.
Comparing restoration proposals
If you compare restoration proposals, check what each one includes. One may clean and repoint the face only. Another may include firebox, damper and smoke chamber work. They are not the same job.
Ask each company what will be kept, what will be replaced and in what order. Ask which mortar they will use in the firebox and on the face. Our written estimate covers each of those points, which makes a fair comparison easier. Ask too how hidden damage would be handled and priced if it appears during the work.
What the original look means in practice
Restoring the original look means returning the fireplace to how it was meant to appear, with materials that match. It does not mean making it look new or adding features it never had.
We match brick, mortar, tile and stone as closely as available materials allow. Where the original finish has been lost, we explain what can reasonably be recovered. If you want a different look, that is a design change, and it sits outside restoration. We explain the limits of any match before the work starts.
Essential and optional restoration items
- Firebox joints refilled with refractory mortar
- Damper freed, repaired or replaced
- Face brick cleaned by the gentlest method
- Room and floor protection
Your restoration questions, in plain terms
Is the chimney part of a fireplace restoration?
The focus is the fireplace itself, from the firebox and damper to the hearth and face. Findings on the chimney above are noted and listed as separate items, each with its own reason and price.
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.
What records do I get after a restoration?
A written record of the work, listing what was repaired, replaced and retained, the materials used and anything left outside the scope. Keep it with any fireplace manuals for later maintenance visits.
More Ways to Care for Your Fireplace
- Top-Sealing Damper InstallationFit a top-mounted damper only after checking the fireplace, product restrictions and control route.
- Fireplace Hearth RepairRepair the hearth surface after considering the supporting assembly and fireplace requirements.
- Smoke Chamber RepairRepair identified smoke-chamber surfaces with the access and material requirements clearly defined.
- Chimney Masonry RepairRepair affected chimney brickwork and joints with materials selected for the construction already in place.
- Chimney TuckpointingRenew deteriorated mortar joints around chimney bricks that can appropriately remain.
We received your request
Our team will contact you to arrange your inspection.
Chimney & Fireplace Brands We Work With
DuraVent 
Olympia Chimney and Venting 
Copperfield Chimney Supply 
Rutland 
Heatilator 
Heat & Glo