Have you dreamed of curling up around your fireplace to enjoy a crackling fire but are unsure if your fireplace is in suitable condition for use? The National Chimney Sweep Association recommends getting your fireplace swept, cleaned, and inspected each year, regardless of use.
What is a Chimney Flue?A chimney flue is a ventilation structure made of masonry, clay or metal that vents hot toxic exhaust gases or smoke produced by a boiler, stove, furnace, incinerator, or fireplace from living areas. Chimney flue's are typically vertical, or as near as possible to vertical, to ensure that the gases flow smoothly, drawing air into the combustion in what is known as the stack, or chimney effect.
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What are the signs of deterioration?You can do a simple inspection yourself. Grab a flashlight and take a peek into your fireplace, open the damper, and look up into the flues! Watch out for the following items:
If you notice any of these items, contact McVay Masonry for a no-cost evaluation and estimate. |
National Fire Protection Association standards recommend that chimneys be inspected and cleaned at least once per year for “soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances,” and that cleaning, maintenance and any necessary repairs should be done at that time. This is to keep your family safe.
Chimney Flue ResurfacingDepending on the deterioration, flue resurfacing may be a suitable option for your fireplace system. If there are gaps, cracks, or voids within your flue system, you must get your flue system repaired and/or resurfaced prior to use. Firebox RebuildIs your firebox completely deteriorated from years of use and water intrusion? Not to fear. McVay Masonry can remove the three (3) sides of your firebox walls, the firebox floor, and rebuild your entire firebox with new firebrick and fire mortar. Talk to McVay Masonry about a special pattern design for the back of your firebox! Smoke Chamber PargeDid you know that your smoke chamber, the area right above your throat damper, is required to be parged according to the IRC? You may also find if you try and sell your home the inspection will call out un-parged smoke chambers. McVay Masonry has the expertise to parge your smoke chamber to meet code, and also provide a safer and more suitable environment for your fires. |
Firebrick ReplacementsDo you notice any firebrick inside your fireplace that have cracks, have fallen apart, or are just gone? McVay Masonry can individually replace firebrick to get your fireplace back in suitable condition. Tuck PointingMcVay Masonry can remove missing, or cracked mortar and replace with new mortar to help seal up the joint and get your fireplace back in suitable condition. Chimney CapsChimney, or flue caps, are a crucial part to your chimney. Caps prevent critters and pests from entering your home, and help reduce the amount of rain, snow, and ice that enters your chimney. Chimney caps can be an economical and budget friendly way to help preserve your chimney for years to come. Fireplace DampersA damper is an essential part of your fireplace system that seals the flue system from airflow when not in use, and can help prevent unwanted moisture and pests from entering your home. There are two (2) primary damper types: 1) Throat Damper 2) Top Mounted Damper McVay Masonry can evaluate your damper style and recommend repair, or full replacement. |
