How to Repair Loose Firebrick in a Fireplace

Fireplaces require some maintenance to keep the crackling fires burning safely. Firebrick is a special type of brick located inside the firebox of the fireplace. If the firebrick becomes loose or damaged, it creates a gap that encourages more damage from the heat, smoke and ash produced in the fireplace. Inspect your firebox each fall before you begin using the fireplace to identify loose firebricks before they lead to major damage. Using the correct materials to fix the loosened bricks is key when making the repairs.

Flashlight
Carbide-tipped scoring tool
Vacuum
Brush
Refractory mortar
Brick trowel
Tuck-pointing trowel
Sponge

Instructions

- 1
  Look inside the firebox using a flashlight to see the firebricks inside. Look for crumbling mortar or loose firebricks.
- 2
  Pull out the large chunks of loose mortar. Use a carbide-tipped scoring tool to dig out weakened mortar around the loose firebricks. Clean debris and mortar remnants from the cracks with a vacuum or a small brush.
- 3
  Wet the cracks between the loose firebricks, as well as the faces of the bricks, by brushing water on these airs. The moisture enables the new mortar to stick to the area and cure properly.
- 4
  Prepare a batch of refractory mortar according to the directions. This type of mortar is ideal for fireboxes and tends to hold up better to the heat of the fires.
- 5
  Apply the prepared mortar to the firebrick joints using a brick trowel. Use a tuck-pointing trowel to push the mortar into the joints. Continue adding mortar and pressing it down until the joints are full.
- 6
  Turn the trowel on its edge to scrape the excess mortar from the bricks. Wipe off the brick faces with a damp sponge. Allow the mortar to set for at least 24 hours before using your fireplace so it has adequate time to harden and hold the loose bricks in place.

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