Loose tiles and cracked hearths fixed in Lake Como

When the whole hearth finish should be replaced

Replacing the whole finish makes sense when many tiles are hollow, the matching tile is gone, or the extension has to grow to meet the size rule anyway. It also gives a chance to rebuild any layers the original job left out.

Full replacement is a bigger scope and a bigger visual change, so we only suggest it with a reason. The estimate lists removal, base preparation, the new finish, the edges and trim, and any flooring that has to be adjusted around the new extension.

• Removal and disposal
• Base preparation or rebuild
• New finish and setting materials
• Edges, trim and floor transitions

New tile glued over an old cracked hearth

One quick fix seen on hearths is new tile glued straight over old cracked tile. It hides the damage for a while, adds height at the edge and usually cracks along the old lines once the base moves again.

We remove overlays instead of adding another one. With the original surface exposed, we can see what failed and repair it properly, and the finished hearth ends at a sensible height instead of stacking layers.

A hearth in a fireplace that has sat unused

A fireplace left unused for years often has a hearth that became a shelf, a plant stand or a spot for a television. Loose tiles and cracks can go unnoticed under those objects.

Before the first fire in a long time, we clear the extension, check the finish and the base, and confirm the size against the opening. Any repairs go on a written list, and chimney and firebox checks are scheduled as their own service if they are due.

• Extension cleared and checked
• Finish tapped and looked over
• Size confirmed against the opening
• Chimney and firebox checks booked separately if due

Reinforcement in a rebuilt hearth extension

Section R1001.9 requires hearths and extensions to be reinforced to carry their own weight and all imposed loads. On a rebuild, that reinforcement is designed into the new slab from the start.

We describe the base construction on the estimate, including its support and reinforcement, so you know the new extension is built as a structural part of the fireplace and more than a decorative pad.

• Noncombustible support under the slab
• Reinforcement for its own weight
• Capacity for the loads it will carry