Brick Fireplaces

Traditional brick fireplaces are still quite popular today.  This type of fireplace is really a classic look that goes with most decors.  Here are some things we have learned about having a brick fireplace installed in your home.

Masonry fireplaces can be built from a kit but are almost always better handled by a professional.  This means that the fireplace will need to be constructed on site.  Even though your contractor will do his best to keep the work area clean and tidy building a brick fireplace is still a messy job.  Mortar is a sticky, messy goo when it gets spilled and can be quite difficult to clean.  We found it easier to handle and clean up after it had dried.  Make sure you leave any surrounding painting until after the fireplace is completely installed or you will have a lot of dust and patching up to deal with.

Bricks are available in several colors and types.  Reclaimed bricks from older homes and construction are fairly popular.  Brick fireplaces give a look of the old world so the reclaimed bricks add to this look.

Don’t ever paint your brick fireplace.  Yes, there are paints available now that are suitable for covering brick, but humans tend to tire of colors easily and then you have a problem.  We have seen this done on some home improvement shows but have found that it is very difficult to remove this paint if you change your mind again.  Paint has a way of getting into every crevice of the brick making it very hard to remove.  Short of sandblasting you will never get all the paint off.

Another downside to having a brick fireplace is that the bricks can become stained with soot from a wood fire.  You can purchase muriatic acid and make a mix with water.  This works fairly well but we have found that it doesn’t really work any better than another old household remedy - full strength vinegar.  Another method is to put a 50/50 mix of bleach into a spray bottle and mist the area.  Use a soft brush to loosen the dirt, then rinse well.