Fireplace Cracks: Common Causes, Repairs, and Prevention

Even though you may only use it a few months each year, you always need to keep an eye out for and repair any cracks in a fireplace. While brick and stone are known for their lasting durability, even the toughest materials can be susceptible to damage over time, and chimneys are no exception. 

What Causes Cracks in a Fireplace?

Age, precipitation, and movement can all contribute to causing cracks or gaps inside your fireplace. With regular maintenance and timely repairs when needed, you can continue enjoying the benefits of your fireplace while staying safe and warm.

• Aging: Your fireplace can erode with time and start to crack, especially along the mortar joints. 

• Water: Rain, snow, and ice can seep into even tiny cracks and create larger ones.

• Movement: Movement from tornados and earthquakes can create shifting, which leads to cracks. Settling foundations in new homes can also cause small hairline cracks. 

• Faulty construction: If someone unlicensed built your fireplace and didn’t quite meet building codes or take extra care, it’s a recipe for disaster.

How to Repair Fireplace Cracks

You have two choices for repairing fireplace cracks. The safest option is always hiring a local fireplace pro. If the crack is more than a hairline crack, do not attempt to DIY it. 

1. Call a local chimney or masonry pro.

2. They’ll inspect for cracks that are more significant than hairline cracks. 

3. They’ll use code-compliant methods to repair the cracks and ensure your fireplace is safe to operate.

If money is tight and the crack is just a hairline crack, you can attempt a temporary fix with refractory caulk. 

1. Clean out the crack and surrounding area to remove any loose mortar.

2. Fill the crack with caulk and smooth it out.

3. Let the caulk dry completely before using your fireplace. 

How Much Does It Cost to Repair Fireplace Cracks?

Fireplace repair costs vary widely depending on the severity of the crack and where it’s located. Homeowners can purchase a tube of refractory caulk for around $15 to repair any small cracks or holes. This caulk works well for repairing small chips or cracks in firebrick, re-pointing mortar joints between firebricks, and bonding bricks together.

In the case of large cracks, gaps, or holes, you should consult a professional chimney contractor or mason. A professional fix has a wide range of costs, depending on the severity of the crack, but most homeowners should expect to pay $175 to $3,000 to repair a crack.

How to Prevent Fireplace Cracks

Regular fireplace maintenance will help your household stay safe while you enjoy years of cozy warmth.

Clean the Interior

Be sure to clean out wood-burning fireplaces to remove buildup and stay efficient. You should regularly remove ash, soot, and leftover wood remnants. While any homeowner can perform basic tidying up, we recommend that you hire a chimney professional once per year to perform an inspection and deeper clean.

Install a Blower and Heat-Resistant Door

Having a fan or blower installed will help circulate air and heat more efficiently. And a heat-resistant door prevents sparks and embers from escaping the hearth area, as well as keeping children and pets at bay.

Utilize Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Having both a smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector in the same room as your fireplace will help alert you to any potential issues. Be sure to check the batteries regularly to make sure they are working properly.

Who Fixes Fireplace Cracks?

Call a local fireplace repair pro to fix cracks in your chimney. A generalized handyperson won’t have the skills or prior experience to correctly fix your fireplace fiasco. To make sure everything is on the up-and-up, check your pro’s licensing and ask them about their prior experience fixing fireplace cracks.