This deteriorated Orinda fireplace was flagged by the home inspector.
There are still people who live in older homes with fireplaces where gaps have developed between the bricks and/or the fire bricks are cracked and deteriorated.
Why would these conditions be a cause for concern?
Cracks, gaps and damaged brick in the walls of a firebox or interior chimney lining are considered a fire hazard by the National Fire Protection Association.
Smoke carries waste particles from a fire and eventually causes deposits to form on the walls, and inside and behind any cracks.
This oily substance, called creosote, can re-ignite these deposits and possibly lead to a chimney fire… Now, that’s scary. It’s important to repair any cracks, gaps, voids, and/or damaged bricks, if a wood burning fireplace will be used.
Schedule an inspection – mention “I’d like a peace of mind inspection” – Save $25
