Fireplace Repair
Cracked firebox, failing damper, tired masonry — we repair the fireplace itself, inside and out.
The fireplace is where the fire actually lives, and it endures enormous heat stress. Over time the firebox brick cracks, the mortar joints deteriorate, the damper corrodes or stops sealing, and the surrounding masonry wears. Left alone, these aren't just cosmetic — cracked firebox mortar can expose the framing behind it to heat.
Frank & Sons repairs masonry and prefabricated fireplaces: firebox brick and mortar, dampers, hearths, and surrounds. We fix what makes the fireplace safe and usable, and we're honest about which repairs are essential versus optional.
Signs your fireplace needs repair
- Cracked or crumbling firebrick in the firebox.
- Deteriorating mortar joints inside the firebox.
- A damper that sticks, won't seal, or won't stay open.
- Gaps or cracks in the surrounding masonry.
- Rust, water, or staining in or around the firebox.
How we repair fireplaces
We address firebox damage with the correct materials — firebrick and refractory mortar rated for the heat, not standard brick and mortar that will fail. Cracked joints are repaired to keep heat from reaching the structure behind the firebox, and damaged firebrick is replaced.
We also handle damper repair and replacement, hearth and surround masonry, and the connection into the flue. The result is a fireplace that's safe to use and holds up to the heat, season after season.
Why it matters in Greater Pittsburgh
Fireplaces get heavy use through Pittsburgh's long winters, and that steady heat cycling is exactly what cracks firebox mortar and wears dampers over time. Regular repair keeps a well-loved fireplace safe rather than letting small cracks become real hazards.
Our Process
Straightforward, honest, and built around getting it right the first time.
Call or Request Online
Reach out by phone or the form. Tell us what's happening and where — we'll gather the details that matter.
Inspection & Diagnosis
We examine the system, often with a camera, to find the real cause rather than guessing at the symptom.
Clear Recommendation
You get a plain-English explanation and honest options — repair before unnecessary replacement, always.
Quality Workmanship
We do the work with the right materials and technique, then confirm the result and leave the area clean.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's risky. Cracks in firebox mortar can let heat reach combustible framing behind the masonry. We recommend having it repaired with proper refractory materials before burning.
The firebox endures direct high heat, so it requires firebrick and refractory mortar rated for those temperatures. Ordinary brick and mortar will crack and fail.
Yes. We service both masonry and prefabricated fireplaces, addressing the components appropriate to each type.
Related Chimney & Fireplace Services
Fireplace Repair Across Greater Pittsburgh
We provide fireplace repair throughout Pittsburgh and the surrounding communities within roughly 60 miles.
Request Fireplace Repair
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- ✓ Honest recommendations — repair before unnecessary replacement
- ✓ Camera-backed inspections that show you what's really there
- ✓ Serving Greater Pittsburgh within roughly 60 miles
- ✓ Family-run crew from first call to finished job
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412-407-8749Request an Estimate
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