Has your fireplace been serving you for years? Is it still working as it used to? To help you decide if it’s time for a replacement, here are 5 unmistakable signs your fireplace needs to be replaced:
1. Drafts
A fireplace is one of the most central and defining features of a home. It’s a place where family and friends can gather to enjoy each other’s company and make lasting memories.
However, like all things in your home, your fireplace will eventually need to be replaced. While it may seem like a daunting and expensive task, it’s actually not as bad as you think. In fact, there are a number of compelling reasons why you should replace your old fireplace with a new one.
2. Water leaks
One of the most common (and danger) signs that your fireplace needs to be replaced is water leaking. Even the slightest bit of water coming from the fireplace is a surefire sign that it needs to be replaced as soon as possible.
Damp and moisture spots on walls and floors that aren’t caused by other sources, as well as peeling paint or wallpaper can also be signs of a leaking fireplace.
Additionally, you should be on the lookout for rust and corrosion around the fireplace. This could be an indication of water damage or indicate that the fireplace isn’t equipped to withstand the elements.
It’s important to remember that since these signs of water leakage can lead to costly and dangerous damage, it’s best to replace your old fireplace rather than try to repair it.
Replace your old fireplace as soon as possible if you notice any signs of water leakage.
3. Spalling
Another possible sign that your fireplace has deteriorated to the point of needing replacement is spalling. Spalling occurs when the surface of a material like a stone or concrete erodes due to moisture or other elements.
If spalling is found on your fireplace, it could be a sign of a structural problem, such as water or ash damage, or the presence of mold. In either case, structural spalling can weaken the structural integrity of the fireplace and could cause a great hazard if left untreated.
When inspecting your fireplace, check the mortar and wall joints for any signs of deterioration. If you detect any crumbling or soft mortar, it is a sure sign that the fireplace is in need of replacement. Also, if there are splits, cracks, or crevices in the brick and stone, it is an indication of spalling and further deterioration of the fireplace.
4. Cracking
Cracking is an indication that your fireplace needs replacement. While some hairline cracks usually occur over time and don’t necessarily indicate an issue, if you notice wider, deeper cracks or if the cracks are frequent, this can be a sign that your fireplace is in need of serious repair or even replacement.
If you see wide or deep cracks that are spreading, it is likely that there is structural damage that is beyond repair and will require a new fireplace. If you don’t want to make a major investment in a new fireplace, you may be able to temporarily repair the cracks by using caulk or mortar. However, it is important to remember that this is a temporary patch and that you should plan to replace the fireplace in the near future.
5. Discoloration
One of the more difficult signs to notice when assessing the condition of your fireplace is discoloration. If you look at the bricks around the fireplace, it is not uncommon to see signs of discoloration when the fireplace is aging. Signs of discoloration can appear in the form of stains, spots, or even fading.
Different types of discoloration can signal different potential issues. For instance, yellow or brown discoloration could be caused by smoke damage, while white discoloration can often be caused by excessive humidity in the home. If your brick around the fireplace looks discolored, it could be a sign that you need to consider replacing your fireplace.
It is important to remember that if you don’t have any other signs of aging, discoloration on its own may not be a reason to replace the fireplace. Although, it is definitely best to have a professional take a look to make sure that there are no underlying issues that may need to be addressed, as discoloration can be a sign of more serious damage.
