Fireplace Restoration & Stage II Sweep

A Second Opinion Saved This Customer From an Unnecessary Replacement

The customer had been told by multiple companies that the fireplace insert needed to be completely replaced. The estimates ranged from about $6,000 to $15,000. After inspecting the fireplace, we found that a full replacement was not necessary. The existing insert could be cleaned, repaired and restored instead.

We completed a full Stage II sweep and cleaning, removed the heavy creosote and buildup, replaced the damaged side mesh screens, repaired cracks and deteriorated areas inside the firebox, and refinished the interior. This allowed the customer to keep the existing fireplace instead of paying for a complete replacement.

• Damaged and deteriorated side mesh screens at the fireplace opening
• Heavy soot, ash and creosote-related buildup throughout the firebox
• Aged and deteriorated interior firebox surfaces
• Open cracks and vulnerable joints requiring repair
• A fireplace that looked severely neglected, but did not automatically require total replacement

Why a Proper Evaluation Matters

At first glance, this fireplace looked like it was in very poor condition. There was heavy buildup inside the firebox, the side mesh was damaged, and the interior surfaces needed repair. Because of its appearance, the customer had been told the entire insert should be replaced. After a closer inspection, we found that the fireplace could be restored without replacing the whole unit.

We started by thoroughly cleaning the fireplace and accessible chimney system. Heavy soot, ash, debris and creosote buildup were removed so we could clearly see the condition of the firebox and properly prepare the surfaces for repair.

• Stage II chimney and fireplace cleaning
• Removal of loose soot, ash and accumulated debris
• Creosote/residue removal from accessible areas
• Preparation of firebox surfaces for crack repair and restoration

The damaged side mesh screens were replaced, and the firebox was cleaned and prepared for repair. Cracks, joints and worn areas were repaired as needed before the final interior finish was applied.

• Replacement of damaged side mesh screens
• Crack and joint repair in deteriorated areas
• Surface preparation before coating
• Restoration of worn interior firebox surfaces

After the cleaning and repairs were completed, the inside of the firebox was refinished to give it a clean, uniform appearance and complete the restoration.

Repair Instead of Unnecessary Replacement

This project is a good example of why a second opinion can be worth it. The customer had been quoted between $6,000 and $15,000 to replace the fireplace insert. After inspecting it, we found that replacement was not necessary. We were able to restore the existing fireplace with a Stage II sweep, creosote removal, new side mesh screens, crack repairs and interior refinishing.

The finished fireplace is clean, repaired and restored, with new side mesh screens and a refinished firebox. Most importantly, the customer was able to keep the existing fireplace instead of spending thousands of dollars on a replacement that was not needed.

When Fireplace Restoration May Be an Option

• The existing fireplace structure remains serviceable
• The main problems are buildup, damaged screens, cracks or worn interior surfaces
• The firebox can be properly cleaned and prepared for repair
• A complete replacement has been recommended without first considering restoration options