Expert: James Ball - 2/9/2010

Question
QUESTION: I have a fireplace insert with faux brick walls which appear to be made of an asbestos like material.  I noticed a crack in it the other day and this morning( after a few days of use) I have notices it has spidered and can be picked apart with my fingers; so I have suspended use.  I have only had masonry fireplaces in the past, so this problem is new to me.  My questions are:

1.  Was suspension of use necessary?
2.  What are the likely causes of this situation?
3.  What is the best approach, without spending a fortune, to return to safe operations?

Thank you for your help.

ANSWER: Hello Scott, do you have the manual and if so contact the manufacture about replacement bricks, the owners manual will even show how to replace them. or try your local wood stove store. as far as suspending use will depend on how bad the crack are, hairline should be ok, falling out not so good and do not use.
James

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: The fireplace doesn't really have bricks.  I think they are what are called firebrick panels which are molded to look like bricks.  Something along these lines...  http://www.scilogs.com/liner_style_2.htm

I do not have the manual, but I did find the serial plate.  It is a Heatilator cir 1990.  No online documentation available.

It does seem as though these panels can be replaced.

Couple last questions...

About how much does it cost for replacement for materials and installation?

Is it just age that causes this deterioration?

Thank you again.

Answer
Welcome back Scott,  is this a wood stove insert or a prefab fireplace? if it is an insert wood stove the you must replace with the same if it is a prefab fireplace then you can get replacement panels.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