Wood and coal were frequently used as a main heat source in older buildings. You may find functioning and non-functioning fireplaces, cast iron stoves, chimneys and stove pipes in old houses, or obvious signs that they were there at one time.

LISTEN...Part 1

The operation of fireplaces and wood stoves relies on oxygen to feed the fire and an updraft to take the smoke out through the chimney. The masonry surround or cast-iron stove will give off radiant heat, but the air pulled in to feed the fire can amplify drafts in old buildings, diminishing the heat effect.

Important things to watch for:

• Spalling and Effloresence: When water soaks into brick, concrete and stone work, it can cause a white staining called efflorescence. This happens as the moisture dries and leaves behind a salty deposit on a surface. Severe soaking of masonry over many freeze-thaw cycles may cause pieces to crack and separate - this is called spalling.
  

• Insulation around masonry chimneys and stove pipes must be non-combustible.
• Deformed, separating or cracking chimney structures must be repaired by qualified masons.
• A WETT certified mason or contractor can inspect the fire operation to look for problems like material failures or build up of creosote.
• Replacing a stove or fireplace with an air-tight unit must be included in the overall plan for ventilation in the building.
• Mortar joints may need re-pointing - the application of new mortar between masonry units for support and water shed.

LISTEN...Part 2

Characteristics of Fireplaces and Chimneys:

• The masonry structure requires its own foundation for proper support.
• Parts of the fireplace and chimney system: hearth, firebox, flue, chimney and cap.
• A fireplace requires a source of oxygen to feed the fire and an updraft to function properly. In many cases, this meant that air was pulled from inside the house, making air infiltration from the cold outside even worse.
• Modern fireplaces may use air-tight inserts with fuel fired or electric heating.
• Air tight wood and pellet burning stoves may replace older fireplaces.