How Often Is Firebox Replacement Necessary
When most people purchase a home, firebox replacement is not something they expect to deal with anytime soon. It is true that some homeowners live in their houses for years and never need to replace it. However it can be dangerous to leave the original fireplace insert without proper maintenance.
Over time, a person may notice that their firebox is visibly cracked. This can cause significant damage to the home if smoke and other chemicals are allowed to leak out. If there are noticeable cracks in the firebox, it may be time for repairs or, in some cases, an entirely new firebox.
Even if there are no visible cracks, it may be a good idea to take a closer look. Try scraping the outside of the firebox and see if any pieces crumble or fall off. If they do, it may be evidence of water damage or other serious issues. Anyone who suspects that they have this type of a problem should call a professional to take another look.
Having an annual fireplace inspection is a good idea even if there is no reason to believe that there is a problem. A professional inspector may be able to see signs of an impending issue and take care of them before they snowball. The average homeowner may think that they can easily identify any issues with their fireplace, but they could very well miss something vital.
Replacing the firebox may not be necessary as some issues can be solved with simple repairs. To avoid getting in a potentially hazardous and expensive situation, have the fireplace inspected by a trained professional every year. At the first sign of an issue, have someone with a trained eye come take a look and assess the situation. This is the best way to maintain the overall health of the fireplace.