Loose tiles and cracked hearths fixed in Lockwood

When a raised firebox allows a thinner extension

The same code section carries an exception. Where the firebox opening starts 8 inches or more above the top of the hearth extension, a 3/8 inch layer of brick, concrete, stone, tile or other approved noncombustible material is thick enough for the extension.

Many raised fireplaces qualify and many flush ones do not. We measure the height from the extension to the bottom of the opening before recommending a thin replacement finish, because the tile that is fine in front of a raised firebox can fall short in front of one set at floor height.

What sits under the hearth matters as much as the tile

Section R1001.9 has hearths and hearth extensions built of concrete or masonry, resting on noncombustible supports, with reinforcement for their own weight plus every load placed on them. The support keeps a heavy slab from settling and keeps heat away from the structure below.

A finish repair over weak support tends to crack again along the same line. When a crack pattern points to the base, we open enough of the hearth to see it and give you the support repair and the surface repair as two separate prices.

What is inside a raised hearth bench

A raised hearth bench can be solid masonry, masonry over a hollow core, or a frame covered with a finish. What sits inside decides whether it can carry people sitting on it, and whether the top gives the protection a hearth needs.

When a bench hearth cracks or sags, we look inside through the damaged area before recommending anything. A hollow or framed core under a thin top usually needs rebuilding rather than a new layer of tile, and the estimate explains why.

Hearth items on a home inspection report

Home inspection reports often mention a cracked hearth, loose tiles or an extension that looks short. The note may be brief, and the buyer and seller both need to know what it means.

We visit, measure and write down the condition and the repair options in plain language. A written scope lets both sides discuss a defined job, and it separates hearth repairs from any chimney or firebox items on the same report.

• Condition of the finish and base
• Extension size against the opening
• Repair options in plain language
• Separate lines for chimney or firebox items