Fireplace & Chimney Maintenance

The firebox is the next to be evaluated. Although cracks in the firebox are common they can create a breach in the fire containment envelope and should be evaluated by a professional. The firebrick should be firmly mortared in place. Bricks should be solid and not crumbling or deteriorating. There should be no missing grout or mortar around bricks. Mortar should be set firmly in the corners as well as where it meets the floor. If you find damaged brick or missing mortar, the fireplace should not be put into use until repairs have been made.

The ash pit and ash pit door are the next to be evaluated. Some fireplaces are equipped with an ash pit, where expired charcoal and ash can be swept down into the ash pit and scooped out from an exterior location. If the ash pit door in the firebox is loose or deteriorated it should be replaced by professional. If the ash pit is not to be used it should be bricked up and not used at all. The ash pit should be cleaned based on use. The exterior clean-out door should be secured to the chimney structure. It should open and close freely. The door should not be obstructed by soil or vegetation. If the door has deteriorated or has become loose to the chimney structure consult a professional for repairs or replacement.

Inspecting the log lighter and log grate. The log lighter should be inspected annually. If there are any signs of rust, deterioration or degradation of the gas log lighter pipe it should be replaced. It’s recommended that log lighter’s be replaced every five years or as needed depending on use. Even with gas only fireplaces the damper door must be in the open position when in use. Log grates should not be deteriorated or distorted by heat. Log grates should be elevated a minimum of 2 to 3 inches above the firebox floor and 1 inch above log lighters. Log grates should be replaced as needed.

At Ensure Home Inspection San Antonio We understand that there is no substitute for hiring a professional inspector before putting your  fireplace into service. This should not be used as a tutorial on how to inspect a fireplace or chimney. While there are many more components to a fireplace, we have provided you with a good starting point to evaluate your chimney and fireplace before putting into service this winter.