Firebrick repair
The firebox lining is repaired with heat rated materials to protect the structure.
Fireplace Service
Fireplace Repair Sewickley, PA
Most fireplace problems in Sewickley homes, from smoke in the room to a cracked hearth, can be repaired in both masonry fireplaces and factory-built units. Dial (412) 663-3115 to talk with a local chimney pro about your fireplace.
Fireplace repair covers everything from the hearth you can see to the parts hidden above the firebox. Cracked firebrick, a stuck damper, a crumbling smoke chamber or a damaged hearth can each cause trouble. The first step is figuring out which part is causing the problem.
A smoky fireplace can come from a closed or partly closed damper, a blocked flue or poor draft. A cold flue, a tight house with strong exhaust fans, a firebox opening that is too large for the flue or a chimney that is too short can all pull smoke into the room. Once the cause is known, the fix is usually straightforward.
Before using a fireplace that is acting up, keep a few safety points in mind. A roaring sound, heavy smoke or sparks from the chimney top can mean a chimney fire, so get everyone outside and call 911. If a gas fireplace smells of gas, do not light it, get outside and call the gas utility or 911.
If the problem goes deeper than it first looked, a Sewickley chimney sweep may also recommend firebox repair or chimney damper repair.
Dealing with this in Sewickley, PA right now? Call (412) 663-3115 to talk to a local chimney sweep.
Call nowThe process
How fireplace repair works
Here is how a sweep usually handles a fireplace repair.
Check the system
The sweep checks the hearth, firebox, damper, smoke chamber and flue. The inspection often includes a camera scan.
Diagnose the problem
The cause of smoke, drafts or damage is identified. It also rules out other causes.
Review the fix
The sweep explains the repair options and what each involves. Safety issues come first.
Make the repairs
The needed repairs are done with materials suited to fireplace heat. Bigger jobs may involve a mason.
Test the fireplace
The repaired fireplace is checked before you use it. You will hear when it is safe to use again.
What is included
Types of fireplace repair
Hearth extension repair
Cracked, loose or sinking hearths are repaired or rebuilt to keep embers off the floor.
Smoke problem repair
The cause of smoke in the room is fixed with smoke guards, cap changes or flue work.
Damper replacement
Stuck or leaky dampers are repaired or replaced for a better seal.
Glass door repair
Cracked glass, loose frames and broken hinges are repaired so they close properly.
Related service
Fireplace Restoration Sewickley, PA
Many older homes have fireplaces that were closed off or neglected, and restoration makes them usable again. The work begins with an inspection to see what condition the firebox, damper, smoke chamber and flue are in. Depending on the findings, the fireplace may need firebox work, a new liner or damper replacement.
Restoration can also cover the look of the fireplace, such as repairing face brick, resetting the hearth or refinishing the surround. Calling (412) 663-3115 from Sewickley with the history of the fireplace helps the sweep plan. Do not light a fire in a fireplace that has sat for years until it has been inspected.
Local help
Fireplace Repair Near Me
In Sewickley, older homes often have original masonry fireplaces that need some care to stay safe. In Sewickley and places nearby like Coraopolis, Ambridge, Franklin Park and Avalon, weather and years of fires take a toll on fireplaces and chimneys alike, which is why fireplace repair is often paired with a chimney sweeping.
For fireplace repair in Sewickley, PA or nearby towns like Coraopolis, Ambridge, Franklin Park and Avalon, call (412) 663-3115 to reach a chimney sweep who covers your street.
How the weather here affects chimneys around Sewickley
Winters here are long and cold, and the heating season usually runs from October well into April. Masonry takes the worst of it from the freeze and thaw cycle: rain and melting snow soak into the crown and joints, then freeze and push them apart, and each winter widens the cracks a little more. Nor'easters drive rain sideways into flashing and mortar that looked fine in summer. Most homeowners in Sewickley, PA schedule a sweep in early fall, and a repair check after a hard winter.
Why call
Why fix it now
Less damage
Small chimney problems caught early usually stay small repairs.
Sweeps who know Sewickley
Local sweeps see the same chimney types and weather wear across Sewickley and nearby towns.
Know what happens next
Ask your questions before you agree to anything.
Fireplace Repair questions
What are the signs of a chimney fire?
Chimney fires often sound like a freight train or a jet and send sparks out of the top. Get everyone outside right away and call 911. A Level 2 inspection is recommended after a chimney fire.
What is the difference between a masonry fireplace and a prefab fireplace?
Masonry fireplaces are built in place from brick and stone, and factory-built fireplaces are metal boxes with refractory panels. You can often spot a prefab unit by its metal frame, panels and a label inside. The sweep will tell you which you have.
When should I have my fireplace checked?
A yearly inspection is the standard recommendation for fireplaces and chimneys. Sweeping is done when there is enough buildup to need it. Get it checked before reusing an old fireplace.
Is it worth restoring an old fireplace?
With an inspection and the right repairs, many older fireplaces are safe to use again. It starts with a Level 2 inspection to check hidden areas. Some fireplaces need more work than others.
What causes a fireplace to smoke?
A smoking fireplace is usually a draft problem, often from a cold flue, a blockage or exhaust fans pulling air. Opening a nearby window slightly or warming the flue first can help, and a sweep can find the real cause. Keep CO alarms working in the home.
More questions? Call (412) 663-3115
Other services that may help
Firebox Repair
Repairing cracked firebrick, open mortar joints and worn refractory panels in masonry and factory-built fireplaces alike.
Learn moreChimney Damper Repair
Repairing dampers that will not open, close or seal including handles, chains and seals.
Learn moreGas Fireplace Repair
Repair for gas fireplaces that will not light, will not stay lit or burn dirty, including direct vent, B-vent and vent-free units.
Learn moreFireplace Cleaning
Clearing out and freshening up wood-burning fireplaces, from the hearth to the damper, and checked for cracks or damage.
Learn more
Looking for something else?
See all chimney servicesTalk to a Sewickley chimney sweep about fireplace repair
Call now for Sewickley fireplace repair and help in the towns around it.
(412) 663-3115
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