Expert: James Ball - 5/28/2009

Question
I have an Earthstove and the bricks on the sides are falling loose, also the steel, cast iron or whatever the metal is on the inside back is cracked and jagged.  Can I rebrick this stove? Is it safe to use as is.  Do you know who I can contact in Missoula MT that may be able to help me.  I can't afford to replace the stove but I need to know if it is safe.  Please help me if you can.

Answer
Hello Cheri, do you have the manual for that stove? how old it is? was it installed correctly?it might be time to replace it, "the metal is on the inside back is cracked and jagged" & "the bricks on the sides are falling loose" does not sound safe to me and I would not use it.  I would have a local Certified Chimney Sweep (www.csia.org, there you can look up by zip code to find one near you) take a first hand look at what you have they should be able to help. also check your local wood stove store
James