What Is The Firebox?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Firebox. The firebox is the main part of the fireplace where the fire is built. It’s

usually rectangular or square in shape

, and is surround by fireproof materials such as firebricks. The firebox in my living room fireplace is made of brick that is painted black to suit the other parts of the fireplace.

What does a firebox look like?

Firebox. The firebox is the main part of the fireplace where the fire is built. It’s

usually rectangular or square in shape

, and is surround by fireproof materials such as firebricks. The firebox in my living room fireplace is made of brick that is painted black to suit the other parts of the fireplace.

What is the firebox on a fireplace?

The firebox is

the open-to-the-room, inner section of the fireplace where you light and burn fires

. As the name suggests, a firebox has a standard box-like shape. It features a flat base, three walls, and an opening at the front and top. Since the fire burns inside of it, the walls and floor must be non-combustible.

Where is the firebox in a gas fireplace?

The firebox in a fireplace is

the area behind a fireplace opening where a fire is built and maintained

. A firebox is typically built from masonry materials and will have a hearth at the base, masonry back and sides, and an opening to the chimney at the top.

Why do you need a firebox?

Simply put, your firebox is the portion of the fireplace in which you build your fires. The firebox does more than house burning logs, however. When properly constructed and in good repair, the firebox

serves to insulate the surrounding home structure from the heat, flames, and smoke of your fireplace

.

How can I tell if a fireplace is load bearing?

Generally, when the wall in question runs parallel to the floor joists above, it is not a load-bearing wall. But

if the wall runs perpendicular (at a 90-degree angle) to the joists

, there is a good chance that it is load-bearing. However, there are cases where a bearing wall is parallel to the joists.

How much does it cost to repair a firebox?

Common Fireplace Repair Costs, Including Labor:

Firebox Repair:

$160 – $750 for a steel firebox

, $1,500 – $2,500 for a stone firebox. Fireplace Glass Panel Replacement: $180 – $250 for a single panel, $360 – $750 for multiple panels.

How long does a firebox last?

The lifespan of a prefabricated fireplace is similar to other major appliances such as a range or refrigerator. Although they can last for as long as

20-30 years

when well maintained, most masonry chimneys can last for generations.

What is the knob at the bottom of my fireplace?

The lower knob is

logically air intake

. It might be from inside the house, or if the insert is externally vented (best) then the air for the fire comes from outside. In either case, shutting that down will dampen the fire, but it will do so gradually as the oxygen in the cavity is depleted.

Why is there a hole in the bottom of my fireplace?

The ash pit is built at the fireplace base

so that old ashes are swept or scraped into the ash pit and a fresh fire can be built in a clean fireplace

. … Depending on its size, the ash pit may hold a season’s ashes so that it does not need emptying in inclement weather.

How do I know if my fireplace is wood or gas?

Gas and wood burning fireplaces have

a rating plate in the control compartment area

, under the smoke shield or on the firebox side column. Gas and wood burning inserts have a rating plate in the control compartment area, under the ash lip or on the firebox side.

How much does a firebox cost?

Type Material – Firebox Only Labor – No Flue/Chimney Gas Fireplace – vented

$1,085 – $2,861


$2,500 – $2,822

Is heatilator a good brand?


Heatilator

is considered the best in the industry for a reason. As the #1 choice for builders across the nation, Heatilator offers beautiful gas & electric fireplaces and gas fireplace inserts. They have offered beautiful, efficient, and long lasting quality fireplace models since 1927.

Does wood burn cleaner than gas?

Any way you slice it, it’s clear that

gas burns much more cleanly than wood

, leading to less particulate pollution.

Can you replace a firebox?

The firebox is an essential part of any fireplace, and replacing

is difficult —

but it’s possible. … Many fireboxes are lined with metal fireplace inserts that provide dependable fireproofing. Replacing a firebox can be a challenge, but it is much more affordable than replacing an entire fireplace.

David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.