Expert: James Ball - 8/26/2010

Question
The brick firebox of my old Victorian fireplace (built approx. 1890) is crumbling very badly every time I use the fireplace, as well as the two ventilation 'pipes' that are on either side of the firebox (both seemingly made of a clay-like material). As far as I can tell, there doesn't seem to be any mortar: just the brick itself (clearly purpose-built as it has the dimension of a large tile). Do I need to get it replaced altogether and is it dangerous to use the fireplace until this is repaired? My yearly sweep is due in a month time. I am based in the UK.

Answer
Hello Celine, not sure what is going on in your chimney, but have you sweep take a good look (maybe a video scan) to see if it is still safe to use this fireplace and 2 vents and if he can not repair it then maybe he can recommend some one that can as it does not sound as if it is in good working order. it might need to have a cement coating installed on the inside of the flue/smoke chamber
hope this helped
James