Can you use a fireplace with a crack in it?
THE NATURE OF CRACKS When these fine cracks occur, you can rest assured that the homeowner can enjoy the fireplace with absolutely no danger! In fact, there is metal behind the refractory on a factory-built fireplace; therefore, even if the cracks get larger, the fireplace will still operate safely.
Can a cracked firebox be repaired?
If you notice cracks in your firebox, do not ignore them! They can be repaired if they have not become too wide. Safeguard your home and the lives of your family members by having this problem dealt with before using your fireplace.
Why did my fireplace crack?
Cracks are sometimes caused by mortar joints that may be too wide, allowing oily deposits called creosote to wedge inside and behind these narrow openings. Creosote buildup may also form along the firebox walls. As a result, flying sparks can re-ignite creosote and cause deadly fire outbreaks.
When should I be worried about cracks in brick?
Small, thin vertical brick cracks can show up right after a home has been built and can be traced back to some initial foundation settlement. Though usually minor, these cracks should still be examined by a professional. Wide vertical brick cracks, on the other hand, are serious indicators of a foundation problem.
Why do wood fireplaces have cracks in them?
Manufactured fireplaces often have refractory (concrete like) panels in them to limit the transfer of heat in the firebox area. House fires can occur if there are cracks in the refractory panels that allow excessive heat to transfer through the cracks to the metal shell (box) and to the wood framing.
Is it safe to repair a crack in a fireplace?
If the fissure is larger, there’s also a possibility that burning embers could blow through the crack and into the wall. Because these are serious fire hazards, you should repair any fireplace crack ASAP, no matter how small.
How big of a crack is too small for a fireplace?
There are some fireplace professionals that feel if a crack is less than 1/16 of an inch wide or if you can not fit a dime into the crack, that it may be ok or that just a limited repair would be wise.
What causes a fire panel to crack?
Panels may become cracked or damaged due to excessive heat from an improper fire in the firebox area. The fire may have been built too large or not positioned correctly in the fireplace; therefore the panels get exposed to excessive heat. When moving a log in a burning fireplace with a metal stoker rod and the panel gets hit too hard, it may crack.