Firebox Repair & Rebuilding Near Me: Explore Fast & Affordable Solutions With Comfort Class in Tulsa

What & Where Is the Firebox in a Fireplace?

The firebox is the refractory paneling or firebrick area of the fireplace – the area that holds the grate and fire. If you have a masonry fireplace, your firebox should be made of firebrick and refractory mortar. If you have a prefab fireplace or metal insert, your firebox should be made of refractory paneling.

How Do You Repair Cracks In Fireboxes?

If you’ve noticed cracks in your firebox or an inspection has revealed damage, don’t fret – a brand new fireplace or insert isn’t the only solution. We may be able to simply repair or rebuild your firebox. How we repair fireboxes depends on both the type of firebox and the type of damage.

Prefabricated Firebox Repair

If you have a prefab (factory-built) fireplace or metal insert and the refractory side walls, back wall, or floor panels of your firebox are cracked or deteriorating, we can replace them with custom-made, expertly installed refractory panels.

How do we ensure a perfect fit? We use your existing refractory panels as a template for the new refractory panels. Once we’ve cut the new panels, we simply install them and secure them into place with the clips that were once holding your old panels in place. Good as new!

Masonry Firebox Repair

If you have a masonry firebox and there are cracks in the mortar joints between the firebrick, we may simply fill and seal these cracks using fireclay. This material is designed to resist heat damage and can restore fireboxes with cracks and small gaps.

If damage is more extensive and your firebrick has begun crumbling or you have larger issues – like a poorly built or irreparable firebox – we can completely rebuild the firebox using new refractory mortar and firebrick. When we’re done, your new firebox will be beautiful and ready for the next fire.

What’s the Difference Between Common Brick & Firebrick?

When it comes to chimney and fireplace construction, both common brick and firebrick play important roles…but they definitely serve different purposes, and they need to be used in different areas.

• Common brick is used in the chimney structure. This is ideal because it’s durable and strong enough to withstand outdoor elements, while not weighting the entire structure down (and inviting decay because of it). While it can handle moderate heat, it is not designed for direct exposure to intense flames, which is why avoiding chimney fires is such a must.
• Firebrick is used in the firebox, which is the part of the fireplace that holds the fire. Firebrick is specifically designed to handle extreme temperatures (1,800°F or more) without cracking, breaking, or deteriorating. Unlike common brick, firebrick resists direct flame contact, high heat, and thermal expansion. That said, it’s more dense, so this is the only area where you’d want to use it.

Essentially, using common brick in a firebox would be a serious fire hazard because it cannot withstand prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Conversely, using firebrick in the chimney structure isn’t recommended since firebrick is heavier and not designed for handling moisture, wind, and outdoor conditions.

Is It More Cost-Effective to Repair or Rebuild a Firebox?

The decision to repair or rebuild a firebox depends on the extent of the damage you’re facing and the materials involved. While repairs are generally less expensive upfront, sometimes a full rebuild is the better investment if the damages are too exhaustive.

If your firebox only has some small cracks, a few damaged bricks, or a dent or issue with a refractory panel or two, then it’s likely we can repair it. If the firebox has more severe damage, such as large cracks, lots of crumbling bricks, or big structural weaknesses, repairs may only provide a temporary fix, making a full rebuild the safer and more cost-effective option.

So, how do you know what’s best for you? A professional fireplace inspection can determine the best course of action. Consult with all, and we’ll set you forward in the right direction.

Is It Possible to Update the Appearance of My Firebox During Repairs?

Yes! Some options include:

• Restoring your firebox with different materials. You can choose from a variety of firebrick styles, colors, and patterns to achieve a fresh look while maintaining fire safety.
• Adding a new fireplace insert. If you want a modern upgrade, a gas or electric fireplace insert can be installed into your existing firebox, improving efficiency and aesthetics.
• Updating to a PriorFire Retrofit Fireplace System.  The PriorFire system enhances heat output, boosts efficiency, and produces taller, more visually appealing flames compared to traditional fireplaces.
• Adding an Ahren-Fire Restoration System. The Ahren-Fire system is a complete fireplace restoration solution designed to improve the safety and efficiency of older, improperly sized fireplaces.

Not sure where to start? Reach out to discuss your current set-up, your goals, your vision, and your budget. We’re here and happy to offer our advice.

For Tulsa Fireplace & Firebox Repair, Count On Us

If your firebox is unattractive and potentially unsafe, give Comfort Class’s Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certified chimney technicians a call. We can take a look at your firebox and let you know what we recommend based on your budget and needs.

Reach out now for prompt and courteous service you can rely on year after year. From our family to yours, we pledge ultimate customer satisfaction.