Home health check

Keep fireplaces working safely and efficiently by carrying out routine maintenance and cleaning

Roger Hunt advises on how to maintain a fireplace

Fireplaces were once a vital means of providing warmth, so they were found in virtually every room of a house. However, the style of fireplaces and level of decoration varied considerably, depending on the period and status of the property and also the room in which they were located. Cast iron was commonly used for fireplaces, sometimes in conjunction with a marble or stone chimneypiece or surround.

The most common problems associated with old fireplaces are missing parts, such as hoods, bars and grates; smoke stains on marble fireplaces; components parting due to heat damage or structural movement within the building, and damaged inset and hearth tiles.

Maintenance checklist

● Test carbon monoxide and smoke alarms monthly.

● Ensure the chimney is swept annually.

● Clear ash and debris from grates regularly.

● Repair cracks, gaps and damage to the fireback and surround.

● Clean and polish decorative elements.

Repair guide

Specialist fireplace shops are an excellent source of advice, repair materials and parts, while some also offer a renovation service. If removing a fire surround, take care not to use force as lugs and fixings buried behind the plaster on either side generally secure them to the wall.

Some fireplaces are fitted incorrectly or serve only as decorative features, so always check before using a fireplace. To ensure safety, check the chimney is in good condition and swept regularly, and fit both a smoke detector and carbon monoxide monitor. When the fireplace is not in use, consider using a draught-proofing device in the flue. Never seal a flue completely as this may cause condensation and damp.

Replacement dos and don’ts

● Do be aware of the weight of a fireplace before attempting to move it.

● Don’t attempt to clean marble or stone without advice.

● Do ensure a salvaged fireplace is appropriate for the building’s period and status.

● Don’t underestimate the work involved in removing layers of paint.

● Do think about safety if planning to use the fireplace and check it is working properly.

● Don’t shot-blast fireplaces as this can pit the surface.

Above: The most decorative fireplaces are generally found in the social rooms of a house, such as the sitting and dining rooms. Cast-iron fireplaces with elaborate tile surrounds are a common original feature of Victorian and Edwardian properties