What is a common problem with a fireplace?
Poor-Quality Firewood
Fresh wood will still have a lot of moisture inside, preventing complete combustion. The more inefficient the combustion, the weaker the fire. Low-burning fires offer little in the way of heat and actually produce more smoke.
How do you make an old fireplace look modern?
17 Fireplace Remodel Ideas
- Add Glass Fireplace Doors. A cozy fire on a cold night is a delight. …
- Get Your Firebrick in Shape. …
- Install a Mantel. …
- Opt for a Salvaged Mantel. …
- Add a Gas Fireplace. …
- Put in a Fireplace Insert. …
- Tile a Hearth. …
- Choose the Right Tiles.
Can you permanently close off a fireplace?
There are more permanent options available to close off a fireplace, but they’re also more time consuming. “You can also cover/seal the fireplace opening with brick or drywall if you want to eliminate the fireplace altogether,” says Blaken. You could build a drywall fireplace cover or hire a pro to do it for you.
Does removing a fireplace decrease home value?
But losing a fireplace can affect a home’s appeal and possibly even its resale value, real estate pros say. A fireplace can particularly be viewed as a valuable amenity in colder climates, and removing one could even reduce the number of buyers drawn to a property, some agents say.
How do I turn my fireplace into storage?
Turn an unused fireplace into storage. Simply cap the gas line, build a box with a shelf that is large enough to insert into the fireplace, add trim to secure it into place. Add decorative boxes to hide items such as toys or use as a bookshelf. When you want the fireplace back simply remove the box.
What are the 3 most common dangers of having a fireplace?
They are the source of risks of all kinds, from pollution to fire hazards.
- Woodsmoke Is Harmful. If you have a wood-burning fireplace in your home, you may want to pause before throwing another log on the fire. …
- Polluting Your Home and Environment. …
- Fire Hazard. …
- Stay Safe and Prevent Hazards.
Can a chimney explode?
Burning as high as 2000 degrees Fahrenheit, a creosote fire in the chimney can quickly spread to the house, especially since it cannot be easily controlled. The fire can drop embers onto the roof of the house, and the extreme heat can even cause the chimney to explode, resulting in further devastation.
How do you know if a chimney is safe?
How to Make Sure Your Fireplace & Chimney Are Safe
- There’s no bird nest or debris buildup on the cap.
- There are no tree limbs above or near the chimney.
- The mortar and bricks on the chimney aren’t crumbling or missing.
- The chimney rises at least 2 feet above where it exits the roof.
How much does it cost to block up a fireplace?
Chimney and Fireplace Removal Costs
| National Average Cost | $4,500 |
|---|---|
| Minimum Cost | $500 |
| Maximum Cost | $10,000 |
| Average Range | $3,000 to $6,000 |
How much does it cost to seal off a fireplace?
Getting everything done in one trip might cost anywhere between $250 and $1,350, depending on the price of the cap, as well as a number of other factors.
How Much Does It Cost to Seal a Chimney and Add a Cap Yourself?
| Material | Cost |
|---|---|
| Silicone caulk | $15 |
| Brushable crown repair | $60 |
| Paintbrush | $5 |
| Duct tape | $5 |
How do I block an old fireplace?
How to Close Off a Fireplace. While making sure there is no pilot or embers active in the fireplace, a temporary drape of plastic sheeting can be taped over the fireplace opening. This will stop easy air movement from the fireplace, help with cold hearth syndrome and odor.
Should I keep fireplace?
There are many arguments for and against keeping a fireplace in an older home. One of the main reasons to keep is that they are a structural part of the build. Removing them means structural adjustments of the house, a procedure that has to be done by a professional.
Can I drywall over a fireplace?
To remodel your brick fireplace you can simply cover it with drywall. The end result is a smooth wall that you can paint and decorate anyway you like.
Can you remove a fireplace and keep the chimney?
It is possible to remove the fireplace by itself and leave the stack or chimney flue. The most important aspect of this kind of removal is reinforcement. A lot of supports will need to be installed in order to maintain the structural integrity of your house.
Do I need permission to remove chimney?
Planning permission is not normally required to remove a chimney stack or a chimney breast from a dwelling as long as it is not a listed building or located within a Conservation Area and any repairs/infilling to the roof is done using materials which match those already used on the property.
Do fireplaces add value to a home?
Return on Investment
A homeowner can often recover over 100 percent of the expenses associated with adding a fireplace upon selling their home. According to the National Association of Real Estate Appraisers, adding a fireplace to home can increase the resale value of the home by as much as 6-12 percent.
Does removing a chimney stack devalue a house?
They offer a traditional and cosy feel that’s attractive to many homebuyers. Therefore, if you remove your chimney, you’re likely to remove what many consider an asset. This will result in your home’s value decreasing. You’ll also make it more difficult to sell.
Why are old fireplaces boarded?
“The net effect of the design is that it draws air into the fireplace very efficiently,” says Irving. “That allows the flame to have plenty of oxygen to burn strongly and cleanly. And, on top of that, it effectively reflects heat into the room.”
Do I need a structural engineer to remove a chimney breast?
NB You are always likely to require the services of a Structural Engineer if you intend on removing the chimney and breast. If you don’t get an expert involved, you risk serious structural degradation to your property which might result in the building collapsing which carries the risk of death.
