Renovation needs fireplace

[dhaglund]

Hello,

I have a fireplace that is starting to fall apart. It's not as serious as it sounds, but some mortar is coming loose between the bricks, and the bricks are starting to chip. I'm considering trying to fix it up a bit. What should I keep in mind, and how should I proceed?

//D

 

[Micke H]

Take a piece of the joint to the store and ask for help to get the same hardness in the new mortar, otherwise it can crack and fall off. Scrape out as much of the joints as you can - preferably so that it is deeper than the height of the joint (there's probably some rule). Water the brick thoroughly - spray bottle or lime brush and brush for about a day and refill as needed - otherwise the new joint will dry out as the brick absorbs the water. Mix mortar according to the manufacturer's info. Then just apply the mortar and water it afterwards if stated in the instructions. Now, surely someone who really knows this will correct me a bit - but it’s not that complicated and you can always redo it if it comes loose... Good luck with the stove. Remember to use fireproof mortar if you're working in the fireplace // Micke