Fireplaces, Heating Stoves, Flues and Chimneys - masonry (fireplace)
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sylfrank
06-20-03, 12:19 PM
We have a brick fireplace that's over 35 years old. The "leans" on the outside were built so that the tops were sealed by a 50-lb
slate slab on each side. Many years ago, one slab became loose and I removed it, leaving brick and mortar exposed. The other one never came loose and I left it like that. Now I'd like to have it repaired but don't know whether to just get the slate slab replaced or to have the leans finished with brick. My wife thinks the slabs create a hazard, but someone told me that water will seep through and weaken the mortar. At this point, I don't know if that makes any difference because one side has already been exposed all these years. Any advice?
slate slab on each side. Many years ago, one slab became loose and I removed it, leaving brick and mortar exposed. The other one never came loose and I left it like that. Now I'd like to have it repaired but don't know whether to just get the slate slab replaced or to have the leans finished with brick. My wife thinks the slabs create a hazard, but someone told me that water will seep through and weaken the mortar. At this point, I don't know if that makes any difference because one side has already been exposed all these years. Any advice?
Doug Aleshire
06-20-03, 06:09 PM
sylfrank,
Unsure of what you have but getting a professional to look at it is the best advice.
Good Luck!
Unsure of what you have but getting a professional to look at it is the best advice.
Good Luck!