HOW DOES A MASONRY CHIMNEY WORK? Masonry chimneys use a difference in air pressure to create the draft needed to fuel the fire and expel combustion byproducts . Cool, dense air surrounds the outside of the chimney while hot air from the fire fills the inside.
How do I know if I have a masonry fireplace?
A masonry fireplace has a firebox built of individual generally yellowish firebrick , a brick chimney above the roof, and if you look up past the damper you will see a roughly pyramid shaped affair also built of brick.
What is a masonry chimney?
Masonry fireplaces and chimneys are constructed on site from stone or brick and mortar , and are part of the home’s structural design. Typically, these fireplaces and chimneys are built as the house is built.
Are masonry chimneys safe?
The freeze and thaw cycles that occur during the winter will slowly demolish a masonry chimney. If the chimney is used for wood burning, the condensation can also contribute to tar and creosote build-up that is flammable and a fire hazard to your family.
How much does it cost to build a masonry chimney?
The most simple, good access chimney rebuild can range from around $2,500 to over $25,000 , and beyond, for the installation of a custom chimney and fireplace depending on its; intricacy.
What is the difference between a masonry and prefabricated fireplace?
Masonry fireplaces are built to last a lifetime . Prefabricated fireplaces are appliances. ... Brick mason-built fireplaces stand up to more intense heat than factory-built models, which can warp if the fire is too intense. However, prefab fireplaces have metal flues, which are often simpler to clean than brick chimneys.
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 does a chimney draft work?
Chimneys operate on the principle that hot air rises because it is less dense than cold air. ... The rising hot gas creates a pressure difference called draft which draws combustion air into the appliance and expels the exhaust gas outside . Two factors affect the amount of draft produced by a chimney.
How do chimneys work when it rains?
Because your chimney is directly exposed to rain, the masonry components will deteriorate over time . Water can cause bricks to spall and crack (letting in water), in addition to making your chimney look unkempt. You may know your chimney is leaking because you see visible water in the flue or fireplace.
Are chimney liners worth it?
A chimney liner might not seem like an important part of your chimney, but in reality, it’s extremely important and improves the safety of your fireplace and home . Additionally, a chimney liner is required to be present to pass inspection for property transfer.
Does a brick chimney need a liner?
Do brick chimneys need to be lined? Many older homes have unlined brick chimneys. They were built during a period when most building codes didn’t require them. Today, most building and fire codes require chimney liners , even if you have a brick chimney.
Do brick chimneys need to be sealed?
As a result, chimney masonry should be protected from exposure to water. That’s why many chimney professionals recommend homeowners apply a waterproof sealer to protect the chimney from water damage. ... So for optimum performance, waterproofing should be re-applied every five years.
Is chimney repair covered by home insurance?
Yes, homeowners insurance covers chimney repairs if a covered loss caused the damage . But chimneys that are damaged due to normal wear and tear or neglect would not be covered.
Can a chimney be added to a house?
Is It Possible to Add a Fireplace to My House? Be assured that it is possible to add a fireplace to an existing home . You’ll just need to determine which one will work best. Get familiar with your area’s building codes to check requirements such as minimum clearances around vent pipes and limits on fireplace emissions.
How long do brick chimneys last?
Generally, you can expect a well-installed, properly maintained brick fireplace to last over 100 years ! Brick is a very long-lasting material that can withstand the demands of a fireplace and last for many years.
