Expert: James Ball - 7/21/2009

Question
We have an old steel box fireplace with masonry built around it.  Built in the 60's which recently started building up smoke badly.  Some experts said it was because of the overhanging tree, others because the pipe was not long enough.  We notices a softball size hole on the upper corner of the box from rusting.  Can this be repaired in anyway?  Are there are inserts we can buy? We want to restore to original condition.  Thanks

Answer
Hello David, hard to say what you have from what you describe, 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.
Hope this helps
James