You may need to have Fireplace Repair Seattle done in your home to keep your fireplace functioning properly. The problem may be as simple as a clogged chimney or a dirty chimney cap. A crack in the masonry or a draft can cost you anywhere from $100 to $500. Although it might cost a little extra to fix a cracked fireplace, sealing the fireplace can prevent it from developing other problems and reduce the risk of more expensive repairs. Here are a few things to consider when getting a chimney repaired.
First, check the gas valve. A thermocouple controls the gas valve. This device reads the temperature surrounding it and ignites the gas when needed. Make sure the thermocouple is screwed in tightly and is located correctly. Alternatively, you can use a thermopile. The thermopile is similar to a thermocouple but is connected to an electrical voltage rather than gas. You can remove the ornamental plate on the fireplace to check the gas valve.
Are you having trouble lighting your fireplace? Check the gas valve. If the gas is flowing to your fireplace, but it is not lighting, try blowing compressed air into the pilot area. If it still doesn’t light, you should contact a qualified fireplace repair technician. Your chimney may also be causing the problem. It could have clogged or draft problems. Another problem might be the electrical ignition system or bad valves. Make sure that you have a proper gas line connection. A professional technician will check all of these areas and fix any issues.
If you have experience with fireplaces or general DIY, you can do a few repairs yourself. Some common repairs involve caulking and repointing. Depending on the type of fireplace, you may be able to do them yourself.
Proper maintenance and inspection will prevent major problems. Conduct visual inspections regularly and report any signs of weakness to a professional technician. In addition to these routine inspections, you should also clean your fireplace regularly. Remove any excess ash from the firebox. Also, make sure you clean the tile surround and the mantel regularly. Cleaning the tiles and grout around the fireplace also helps keep the structure clean. It’s important to have your fireplace inspected by a professional to prevent a huge problem from occurring in the future.
Chimney sweeping is another important part of fireplace maintenance. You’ll want to make sure your chimney is free of any creosote, or the buildup may result in a chimney fire. Performing chimney sweeping protects your home and family from fires. Cleaning the firebox and chimney will cost anywhere from $130 to $375. And remember that fires caused by creosote are often the result of improper maintenance and cleaning.
Cleaning the exterior of your fireplace is also important. For a wood-burning fireplace, clean the glass with a special fireplace glass cleaner. If the lava rocks or decorative logs are falling out, replace them immediately. Lastly, clean the trim and louvers of your fireplace with a microfiber cloth. These steps should take around an hour. A professional fireplace inspector will also clean the logs and remove any grime and debris. They will also inspect your fireplace’s interior and exterior.
When it comes to costs, you may find yourself unsure whether to repair your fireplace or replace it. While chimney replacement costs about $1,200 to $4,900, you can often get it fixed with repairs. However, if the problem is minor, you may want to consider repairing the fireplace instead. Depending on the damage, a new fireplace may be a better choice than fixing the existing one. There are many reasons to choose Fireplace Repair versus Fireplace Replacement.
The cost of fireplace repair depends on the type of surround material. For example, if the fireplace surround is made from concrete, it may require a professional. While concrete fireplaces are extremely sturdy and resilient, they can crack. If left exposed, these cracks will expand and need to be repaired. Brick surrounds are very durable, but may require repointing or restoration to fix cracks. You can choose to have your fireplace repaired by a professional, but expect to pay at least $250 to $700.
Cleaning and inspecting the chimney is also crucial. During a chimney inspection, it is necessary to clean and inspect it for signs of gas leaks. The interior walls around the chimney structure can also be checked for damage. A clogged chimney will not only billow smoke but may also let toxic gases into your home. A professional fireplace repair specialist can prevent this catastrophe by cleaning it regularly and ensuring it is safe to use. It is important to have regular inspections performed and maintain it in good working condition.