Originally Posted By: mboyett
This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
http://www.nachi.org/bbsystem/usrimages/F/Firebrick.jpg ]
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Mike Boyett
Capital City Inspections
Austin, Tx
www.capcityinspections.com
http://www.nachi.org/bbsystem/usrimages/F/Firebrick.jpg ]
Originally Posted By: ddivito
This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Any gaps between the firebricks should be filled with refractory mortar. One cannot tell the condition of the mortar in the chimney behind the firebox. Hot gases can work their way through the gaps and pyrolize any wood behind or a hot cinder can jump through the gaps. There is a risk of fire, not to mention the possibility of combustion gases entering the wall cavity and ultimately the living space.
Just refer a licensed chimney specialist assess the condition of the firebox.
Originally Posted By: mboyett
This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
| ddivito wrote: |
| and pyrolize any wood behind |
Holey moley, wouldn't want that to happen.  I see many fireplaces that do have some small gaps in the firebricks and usually write it up similar to what you indicated. I just want to make sure I'm not being an alarmist. I suspect that any gap over 1/16" or maybe even 1/32" is too much but I don't know exactly where to draw the line. Thanks for the input.
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Mike Boyett
Capital City Inspections
Austin, Tx
www.capcityinspections.com
Originally Posted By: sbyrnes
This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
I don’t think it’s possible to be an alarmist when it comes to fireplaces. Anytime the Buyer is present when I do an inspection on a house with a fireplace I tell them,“You are about to start a fire in your home, make sure it is as safe as possible.” I have never received grief from anyone.
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All Corners Home Inspections, Inc
Serving Pasco, Hernando, N. Pinellas & N. Hillsborough counties