Fireplace hearth repair by local pros in Holden Heights

How far the extension reaches in front and to the sides

Section R1001.10 sets the size. A hearth extension reaches at least 16 inches in front of the fireplace opening and at least 8 inches beyond each side of it. Those figures apply to openings smaller than 6 square feet.

We measure your existing extension against the opening, then mark where it meets or misses the rule. A hearth that looks generous can still be short at one side, and a narrow apron often explains why floor finishes near the fireplace carry heat marks.

Larger fireplace openings need a larger hearth

When the fireplace opening is 6 square feet or larger, section R1001.10 asks for more coverage, at least 20 inches in front of the opening and at least 12 inches beyond each side. A wide or tall opening crosses that line sooner than many homeowners expect.

We work out the area from the opening's width and height at the free inspection. If your fireplace falls into the larger class and the extension was built for the smaller one, the estimate shows how far it has to grow and which materials can extend it cleanly.

Finding tile that matches an older hearth

The hardest part of many hearth repairs is the match. Tile lines are discontinued, glazes change and even the same product shifts shade between batches.

We start by asking whether spare tiles were left from the original job, since leftovers in an attic or garage often solve the problem. Without them, we show you the closest available options, or suggest a deliberate contrast such as a border that makes the repair look planned.

• Leftover tiles from the original job
• The closest tile available today
• A planned border or contrast band
• A full new finish when nothing fits

Where the hearth meets the finished floor

The edge between a hearth extension and the room's floor takes traffic and shows every mismatch in height. A new finish that is thicker or thinner than the old one changes that edge.

We plan the transition before ordering material, choosing a flush edge, a small bevel or a trim piece suited to the materials on each side. The goal is an edge that does not catch toes or collect ash, and a clear line where the protected area ends.

• A flush edge
• A small bevel
• A trim piece suited to both materials