The first step is to have a certified technician inspect the fireplace to ensure it is safe and properly sealed to prevent any issues like air leakage or a chimney fire. This professional can also install a flue sealer, if needed.
Once this safety inspection is completed, the next step is to clean out all of the materials that were inside the firebox. This includes ash, debris, and any other combustible material. Be sure to vacuum out the firebox and clean the interior walls and hearth of any remaining soot and debris.
The chimney should also be inspected to make sure it is free of bird or animal nests, and any blockage or obstruction cleared.
Lastly, the chimney and firebox should be sealed off. This can be done with either a metal cover or thin sheet of sheetrock which are both secured with nails or screws. All openings should be securely sealed with mortar, caulk, or fire-resistant sealant.
Once the job is completed, we recommend having it inspected again by a certified technician to ensure you have provided a safe closure to your unused fireplace.
How much does it cost to close up a fireplace?
The exact cost of closing up a fireplace depends on several factors, including the size of the fireplace and the materials used for the closure. Generally, smaller fireplaces can cost around $500 to $1,000 to close up, while larger fireplaces can cost up to $2,000 or more.
The closure materials themselves can range from sheetrock to masonry products such as brick or stone. Additional costs may include framing and framing materials, chimney repairs and flashing, additional insulation, and a new gas or wood burning insert.
Labor costs to close up the fireplace can also add to the overall cost, so it is best to consult with a professional to get an accurate quote.
How do you permanently seal a chimney?
Permanently sealing a chimney is a job best left to a professional as doing it yourself can be dangerous. The most common way to permanently seal a chimney is by resealing the flue cap, or chimney crown.
Resealing the chimney crown involves cleaning the entire outside of the crown to remove dirt and debris, then repairing any existing damage, such as cracks. Once the crown has been repaired, a waterproof sealant can be applied to the entire surface.
For additional protection, it is also a good idea to install chimney flashings, which are metal flanges that help keep water out of the chimney, as well as provide a more secure seal. Other methods of sealing a chimney include installing chimney liners and brick mortar, both of which also require special tools and techniques.
Once the chimney has been permanently sealed, it is important to regularly inspect the seal and make any necessary repairs as needed to ensure the safety of the home and its occupants.
Should unused chimneys be capped?
Yes, unused chimneys should be capped. This is important to ensure that no animals, birds, or critters can enter the chimney and create a nest or potentially cause an obstruction. Capping a chimney is a fairly simple home improvement task and it helps prevent rain, snow and debris from entering into the home.
Often, animals can use debris to build nests in the chimney which can cause air flow and smoke issues in the home due to blockages. Additionally, if a chimney is not capped it can lead to potential fire hazards or costly repairs.
Capping a chimney is also a good way to help maintain its overall function and condition. It is best to contact a certified contractor to get the job done and make sure the chimney is sealed properly.
Can you close off a fireplace?
Yes, it is possible to close off a fireplace. Depending on the construction of your fireplace, one of three options is available to you.
First, you can install a damper, which is essentially a metal plate or door that fits inside the chimney and slides into place to keep the fire contained and stop cold air from coming down your chimney.
It also prevents heat from escaping out of the chimney when not in use.
Second, you can opt for a prefabricated metal flue that fits on top of the existing masonry and separates the inside of the home from the chimney space.
Finally, you can install a metal fire screen which is designed to fit flush against the opening of the fireplace so that no smoke or sparks can escape into the living space.
No matter which option you choose, it is important to follow manufacturer instructions closely to ensure safety and proper installation and to prevent the flow of toxins out of the fireplace into the air.
Does removing a fireplace decrease home value?
Removing a fireplace can sometimes decrease home value, though the impact may vary greatly depending on the condition of the fireplace and the associated surrounding area. Fireplaces can be expensive to maintain and can be seen as a potential safety hazard, resulting in potential buyers choosing properties without fireplaces.
In addition, depending on the layout, the chimney may take up valuable wall or floor space, and removing the fireplace could be seen by potential buyers as creating more usable space in the home or creating an open-concept layout, which is desirable for many buyers.
However, the impact on a home’s value can depend on the area and the condition of the fireplace–if the fireplace is in good condition and sought after by buyers in the area, then removing it will likely decrease the home’s value.
On the other hand, in some areas, homeowners may prefer a more modern fireplace setup, and removing the fireplace may not directly impact the home’s value.
Overall, while not all cases are the same, it is possible that removing a fireplace could decrease the value of a home, though the impact may depend on various factors, including the market and area where the home is located.
How do I turn my fireplace into storage?
If you’re looking to turn your fireplace into a storage space, there are several options to consider depending on how much space you have, how much work you want to put in, and what type of storage you need.
One option that makes for a relatively easy conversion is to use removable storage baskets to store items as needed. You can buy a variety of unique baskets that can hold things such as wood logs, books, toys, and any other items you need to store away.
Another option is to use shelves or drawers to store smaller items in the space. By either purchasing premade shelves or drawers that fit the size of your fireplace, or customizing your own, you can create a truly unique storage space that’s tailored to your needs.
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution and have the time and money to spend, you could also install a custom in-wall storage unit that opens to reveal several compartments. Depending on the size of your fireplace, you could have enough space to have larger items such as bikes, holiday decorations, or workout equipment stored away.
No matter what type of storage solution you decide on, you can make your fireplace an excellent and unique storage space.
Can I drywall over a fireplace?
Yes, you can drywall over a fireplace. It is important to do this carefully, in order to avoid any fire or structural damage. First, make sure that any metal components of the fireplace are insulated in order to avoid any heat conduction to the drywall.
Insulation should include heat-resistant materials and include sleeves for any exposed screws. It’s also important to check for any gaps between the fireplace and the drywall, as these can cause drafts.
Gaps should be filled in with high-temperature-resistant caulk or fire-retardant insulation. Once the insulation is in place, you should be able to hang the drywall over the fireplace without any issues.
Make sure to use the appropriate fasteners, such as drywall screws, to attach the drywall to the frame of the fireplace. Finally, use a high-temperature drywall joint compound to seal the seams and any other areas where the drywall meets the frame.
How long does chimney waterproofing last?
Chimney waterproofing is designed to be a long-term solution to water intrusion and damage to the structure of the chimney. Depending on the quality of materials used and the frequency of cleaning and maintenance, waterproofing can typically last between 5 and 15 years before it needs to be reapplied.
Homeowners should have their chimney tested and inspected annually to detect any signs of wear and tear. As soon as the waterproofing starts to deteriorate, it should be reapplied to ensure the chimney is adequately protected from water damage.
The reapplication process is typically less labor-intensive than the original waterproofing, and should be done prior to the rainy season each year. To ensure the best possible results, homeowners should hire a certified chimney professional to perform the waterproofing.
What is the sealer for a brick chimney?
The sealer used for a brick chimney is typically a masonry waterproofing sealer. It is important to choose a sealer that is appropriate for the type of brick used on your chimney, as some sealers may be too strong or not strong enough for your particular material.
When applying the sealer, make sure to cover all of the surfaces that are exposed to moisture and the elements. Important areas to pay attention to include joints between bricks, mortar, and the chimney cap.
Be sure to follow the instructions on the sealer’s label and apply the sealer adequately depending on your type of brick, environment, and degree of exposure to moisture.
Can you seal chimney pipe?
Yes, you can seal chimney pipe when it is necessary. Sealing can occur when the pipe that carries the smoke up through the chimney becomes damaged in some way, typically due to corrosion, rust or deteriorating material.
This can lead to smoke and other gases escaping around the outside of the chimney, causing the efficiency of the system to be reduced significantly. To overcome this, the pipe must first be thoroughly inspected and any required repairs made.
The area around the damaged section should then be thoroughly cleaned to remove any debris or dirt. After that, a specially formulated sealant for chimney pipe should be applied to the damaged section of pipe, ensuring that all of the gaps are sealed.
Once the sealant has dried and cured, the chimney should be inspected once more to ensure that the sealant has adhered correctly and that there are no further problems.
Can I use Flex Seal on my chimney?
Yes, you can use Flex Seal on your chimney, however, it is important to consider a few things before doing so. First, Flex Seal is not a substitute for professional masonry work, and using it on your chimney may not fix any underlying structural or fatigued masonry issues.
Instead, Flex Seal can be used as an effective waterproof sealant or to seal out drafts in between mortar. It is recommended to inspect the area of the chimney that you want to seal, and to ensure there is no moisture or standing water.
Additionally, you should clean the area of the chimney to make sure the Flex Seal will adhere correctly. Finally, you’ll want to tape the area where you are applying the Flex Seal and make sure you are wearing protective gear including a face mask, safety glasses and gloves.
What can I use to block my fireplace?
You can use several different materials to block your fireplace, including glass fireplace doors, fireplace screens, and steel plate covers. Glass fireplace doors provide the most secure barrier and are available in a variety of styles and sizes to fit your fireplace.
However, they require professional installation. Fireplace screens are also an option and they provide a stylish and decorative barrier to the fireplace. They come in a variety of designs and can easily be installed and removed as needed.
Steel plate covers are also an option, and they can be easily fitted over the opening of the fireplace, providing an effective and secure barrier. They provide a sturdy and durable barrier, but they may not be as attractive as other options.
Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on the size of your fireplace and how secure you need the barrier to be.
Can I use a pillow to block a chimney?
No, you should not use a pillow to block a chimney. Doing so can cause a buildup of dangerous gases in your home, such as carbon monoxide, which can lead to serious illness and even death. Without a proper damper in your chimney, you can also suffer from a draft coming up the chimney when the fire is out, which can lower the energy efficiency in your home.
Instead, use a chimney cap or metal cap at the top of the chimney to keep out debris and temporarily block the chimney until repairs can be made.
Does an electric fireplace need its own outlet?
The short answer is yes, an electric fireplace typically needs its own dedicated electrical outlet. Electric fireplaces contain powerful heating elements and motors that require a lot of power. Connecting your electric fireplace to an extension cord or an existing outlet could overload the circuit and cause the breaker to trip.
Moreover, it’s important to know that plugging a heater into a standard wall outlet can lead to a fire hazard. For safety reasons, electric fireplaces should always be connected to their own dedicated outlet that is wired directly to a circuit breaker.
Make sure that the outlet is of the correct rating for the type and size of heater you’re using and also use a surge protector.
Do you need a special plug for an electric fireplace?
Yes, you will need a special plug for an electric fireplace. Most electric fireplaces require a 120-volt standard outlet. Depending on the wattage of the individual electric fireplace, you may need a higher amp outlet.
It is important to also check the manufacturer’s recommendations to determine what type of outlet you will need. For larger electric fireplaces, you may even want to consider installing a dedicated outlet for the fireplace that is GFCI protected.
In addition to the outlet, an electrician can install the wiring and provide an appropriate voltage to the electric fireplace. Ultimately, you will need the correct outlet and the correct wiring in order to ensure the safety and the effectiveness of the electric fireplace.
Why does my wood fireplace have a plug?
Wood fireplaces typically have a plug installed to provide a convenient connection to an electrical outlet for a blower fan, which is an optional accessory used to increase the circulation of the heat generated by the fireplace.
The blower fan uses electricity to move air through the vent system of the fireplace, improving the efficiency of the heat produced and sending more of the warmth into the room. The plug also makes it easy to connect other accessories to the fireplace, such as manual damper controls, to help ensure that the system is working safely and efficiently.
Is it OK to block off a chimney?
Yes, it is ok to block off a chimney, depending on the reasons for doing so. If the chimney is not being used and it is older or in disrepair, blocking it off may be a good idea as it can be a source of air leaks, can cause heat to be lost, and can lead to safety risks.
Blocking off the chimney should be done properly to prevent the build-up of combustible gases, such as carbon monoxide, in the house. To properly block off a chimney, the flue should always be sealed with a baffle plate and a mesh cap should be installed on the outside.
In addition, all ventilation channels should be sealed with fire-rated mortar to prevent air leakage. Professional help should always be consulted before blocking off a chimney, as this is a hazardous task, and may be illegal in some areas.