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types of brick fireplaces
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What are most popular types of brick fireplaces?

What are most popular types of brick fireplaces? For those who prefer a traditional or rustic look, brick fireplaces might be the right choice. Brick fireplaces are usually cool-looking and inviting since shadows dance along the walls as they burn. A brick fireplace can come in a variety of styles, each offering its own unique features. Here are some most popular types of fireplaces. Hearth Fireplaces Hearth fireplaces have only one level of brick around the actual fireplace unit, which is different from other types of brick fireplaces. Since hearth fireplaces come in either a U-shaped or L-shaped design, they take up less space than other brick fireplace types. Also, the design makes it easier to install since no additional reinforcement is required to support the weight above the opening. Corner Fireplaces Depending on the design preference, corner fireplaces may have flat-fronted or rounded edges. Each type has its own unique benefits, but they both can be adapted to fit into any corner for optimal use of space. Plus, the unique design draws eyes inward instead of toward the wall like other types of brick fireplaces. Its fireplace opening is usually slightly angled so flames reflect off the surrounding walls for an attractive display of light and heat. Freestanding Fireplaces Freestanding fireplaces are taller and have a base made of brick and stone, or another material. Since freestanding fireplaces come in one piece, they don’t take up as much space as other types of brick fireplaces do. The opening to these units is usually along the centerline, allowing people to walk behind them. A wood mantel usually hangs over the front side; this design feature helps to reduce heat damage that can occur when flames lick at the bricks. Stacked Stone Fireplaces Stack stone fireplaces come as a prefabricated kit that is typically installed in half a day. This type has a clean look because it doesn’t have any opening for flames; instead, the units use stones stacked within each other to create an attractive centerpiece for family rooms or other living spaces. Many manufacturers also offer other types of brick fireplaces designed to look similar to stacked stone products, so people can get the appearance they want without sacrificing functionality. Mantel Fireplaces Like freestanding fireplaces, mantel fireplaces have openings for the flames as well. These types of brick fireplaces serve double duty by being able to hide wall-mounted electrical equipment like TVs, speakers, etc., because the opening for flames is on top of the unit. Insert Fireplaces The insert fireplace fits inside a non-working fireplace with a brick and stone facade. These types of brick fireplaces come in different sizes and with several different features, like the ability to hold wood, gas, or pellet fuels. Wall Surround Fireplaces Fireplaces that are built into the wall surround an actual recess that’s cut into the wall. The top part of these brick fireplaces covers up bricks or stone that was originally there; it gives off the appearance of a typical fireplace except for one detail: instead of protruding outward, it sticks out about three inches from its exterior surroundings. These types of brick fireplaces are typically installed in front rooms to create an intimate atmosphere during family gatherings or other special occasions. Get Your Brick Fireplace Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

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How to choose fireplace stones a complete guide

How to choose fireplace stones a complete guide Fireplace stones come in so many varieties that it can be overwhelming when choosing one. It is not necessary to select the most expensive or trendiest stone. There are several things to consider when selecting fireplace stones that can help you narrow down your choices and find the best option. Here are a few things to keep in mind before buying stone for your fireplace. Plan Your Budget In your planning process, you should identify a budget to help determine what type of stone to look at and what you can afford. Prices are not always an indication of quality, but they are a factor to consider if your budget is small and you want a high-quality stone. Climate Stone can be damaged by extreme heat or cold, so it’s essential to know your climate conditions and how they may affect the stone’s lifespan. Look for stones specifically intended for fireplace use and check for color variation in-store. You should also examine samples outside, as colors that seem perfect in-store may not match well later due to fading from sunlight exposure. These considerations can help you choose the right stone type for your fireplace. Exterior Basement Stone formulated for exterior basements or flooring withstands colder temperatures and fluctuating water levels, but these options tend to be less expensive. Some of these stones, like granite, may crack due to expansion and contraction in temperature changes, so avoid using such stones in fireplaces if they do. Otherwise, they are sturdy and come in many colors. Interior House Stone intended for interior surrounds like fireplace mantles and hearth tiles can be used in fireplaces but is not typically marketed for this purpose. Check labels carefully before purchasing, as most companies advise against using these stones in fireplaces due to durability concerns withstanding extreme temperatures, humidity, and possible salt exposure. Contact the manufacturer with any questions about fireplace suitability. Style Stone can create various looks in your fireplace, depending on your interior design style. For a contemporary look, choose polished stones with small veining details that are less likely to show dirt. Avoid dark-veined stones, as they might show through lighter grout. For a traditional look, select rough-textured stones with rich veining detail. Stones with medium to high veining details offer color variation and are easier to work with, though they may collect more dust. Price Quality is reflected in price, but not all expensive stones are better than budget-friendly options. For example, while individual natural stone pieces may be costly, the final installation may not look luxurious once complete. Prices vary based on brand and source, so compare samples from multiple sources before purchasing. Expensive doesn’t always mean better quality. Material Different stone types affect installation and maintenance. Granite and marble are less porous, requiring less sealant over time, and are easier to clean but may not resist heat as well as other materials. Porcelain tiles are easy to maintain and require no grout but lack the natural variation of stone. Stone veneers are easy to install and maintain, using high-heat adhesive instead of mortar, but lack the authenticity of natural stone. Size Stone sizes vary depending on design preferences. Larger stones are more expensive and offer more variation, while smaller stones may be easier to work with but are less visible once installed. Usability Requirements Your choice should also consider usability, especially if the stone will be used for sitting or serving. Some types, like marble, are porous and less heat-resistant, requiring a special fireplace finish that can be more expensive. Properly sealing your stone protects against stains and damage, ensuring longevity. Without sealing, the stone’s durability will rely on the underlying material, such as concrete. Design The final appearance of your stone fireplace should match your aesthetic preferences. For a rustic look, select natural stones with noticeable color and texture variations. For a cleaner look, opt for smooth surfaces with consistent coloring. The combinations of colors, textures, and styles are limitless, so feel free to explore multiple options. Hope this guide helps you choose the best stone for your fireplace. If you’re still unsure which one is best, contact Atlantic Brick and Stone for a free consultation and estimate. Get Your Stone Fireplace Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

fireplace restorations guide
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A complete guide to fireplace restoration

A complete guide to fireplace restoration Our fireplaces are among the most important parts of our homes. After a long day at work, we can gather with family and friends here to roast marshmallows or relax in front of the fireplace. Despite how much we enjoy its appearance, it sure could stand to be refreshed every now and then. We have some tips for you to restore your fireplace! Cleaning the Glass Door This step is only necessary if there are visible stains on the inside glass surface; these can easily be removed using vinegar and steel wool. First, remove the stained areas by scrubbing them with steel wool (you can also use a razor blade or sandpaper). Then, mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the glass door with the solution, wait 5 minutes for it to soak in, then wipe away all residue with a clean cloth. If there are grease stains on the inside glass surface, you can remove them by applying toothpaste (or baking soda) directly onto the stained area using a toothbrush. Leave it on for 10 minutes before wiping it off with a damp cloth. Cleaning Soot from the Fireplace Walls Using gentle soap and warm water, remove as much soot as possible from the hearth side of the fireplace’s walls by wiping them down. Next, remove any excess soot by spraying the fireplace’s insides with a water hose. Let it dry completely before continuing to the next step. Cleaning Ash Residue from Inside the Fireplace Using gentle soap and warm water, wipe out the inside of your fireplace using a sponge or mop. If you have an old house that still uses firewood as its main fuel source, this step may take up to an hour – but don’t give up! Once you’re done, let all parts dry completely before moving on to the next step. Be careful when cleaning near any electrical wires running through your hearth; these are typically red in color and should be easy to spot. If there is any ash present, avoid sweeping it away hastily or using an old broom, as this will only spread the ashes around and make your hearth dirtier in the end! Polishing the Brick Fireplace Once everything inside of your fireplace is dry, you can buff the hearth using a damp sponge. Don’t forget to wipe behind the bricks on both sides of the firebox; these areas are often quite dirty since they’re tucked away from plain sight. Cleaning up Dust and Ashes Around the Exterior of Your Fireplace Using a broom or brush, gently sweep out all soot and dirt that has collected around the exterior of your fireplace. If you have a gas fireplace, make sure to sweep away all ashes and soot from the surrounding areas as well – even those closest to the firebox. Removing Creosote Buildup If you own an older home with a masonry-style fireplace, there’s a chance for creosote buildup inside the chimney flue, visible from outside. Regularly monitor the fireplace’s usage to prevent creosote buildup. If neglected, consider having a professional inspect and clean your interior fireplace. If there’s already significant creosote buildup, you can use the following steps: Step 1: Apply chlorine laundry bleach to the affected area using a rag or sponge. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with warm water. Step 2: Coat the area with mineral oil and let it soak overnight. In the morning, wipe down the surface with lukewarm water. This should loosen most of the creosote, reducing the risk of inhaling dangerous gases when using the firebox. If you’re unsure whether creosote is present, try using a lit candle near the top of your firebox; if there’s soot, there’s likely creosote as well. Washing Fireplace Glass Using warm water and gentle dish soap, wash away any ash caked on the fireplace glass. To avoid scratches, use a soft microfiber cloth. Additionally, spraying vinegar onto the glass before wiping it off with a damp rag can help prevent future buildup and keep the glass spotless. Preparing Your Firewood To fit multiple logs into the firebox, try splitting them into smaller pieces. For a neat pile on the hearth, cut medium-sized pieces from each log. If you plan to use lighter fluid or another accelerant, have it ready along with essentials like matches and kindling. Deciding Where to Place Your Logs If you’re using a medium-sized log rack, place it in the center of the hearth. For logs on the fireplace grate, position them on the rightmost side for easy access. Remember, these steps apply specifically to traditional fireplaces with glass doors, and not every method works with all setups. Are you planning to upgrade your old fireplaces or aiming for a completely new look? Call the Atlantic Brick and Stone team for a consultation to explore ways to transform your old fireplace into a modern centerpiece. Get Your Fireplace Restoration Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

Firebox Cracks Repair a Complete Guide
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Firebox Cracks Repair a Complete Guide

Firebox Cracks Repair a Complete Guide The more you know about what makes your home safe, the better! One of the most important things to remember is that firebox cracks are something that should be taken seriously. If you want to learn more about why this is and how it will affect your home read the whole post to inspect and find our if you need firebox cracks repair services or not.  Causes of Firebox Cracks Firebox cracks can basically be caused by three things: heat, age, and wear and tear. Heat is one of the biggest causes of firebox cracks, as intense heat causes the steel in your firebox to expand and contract. This results in cracks forming over time. Age also plays a big role, as older fireboxes tend to crack more easily because they are made from thinner materials. Additionally, while it may not come as much of a surprise, wear and tear can lead to cracking and is worth mentioning here. If you want to ensure that your family remains safe from a fire when in the house, it is vital to look for signs of damage to the fireplace firebox. Here are some areas that need inspection to determine if a repair is needed: Cracks in the Mortar Cracks in the mortar between bricks could lead to smoke leakage into your home. They can also result in lint and creosote buildup on the brick surfaces, which ultimately increases the risk of an accidental fire occurring at home. Broken or Loose Bricks If there are any broken or loose bricks around your fireplace, these need immediate attention, as broken pieces could fall and cause serious injuries. Loose mortar between bricks can also allow smoke to enter your home or compromise the structure’s integrity. Discolored Area on the Front of the Firebox Any discoloration on the outside of the firebox could indicate excessive heat escaping from the fireplace, which requires urgent repair. This color change, known as spalling, usually occurs when too much direct heat seeps through. Tilting Hearth This is a major issue because not only does it make cleaning more difficult, but it can also lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. If the hearth tilts to one side or moves up and down, you should contact a mason to fix the problem immediately. Firebox Cracks Repair If you suspect you already have cracks in your fireplace or are experiencing smoke issues related to the firebox, it’s crucial to contact a chimney repair professional. A professional can inspect your home, identify the root causes, and help resolve these issues. Remember, for serious issues like these, hiring an expert is always the best option! So there you go! I hope these tips will be helpful if you ever need firebox crack repair services. The main thing to remember is to take these issues seriously. Every year, many fires start because of firebox cracks, so taking the necessary steps to resolve these problems is essential before they get out of hand! Get Your Firebox Crack Repair Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

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Stone Veneer for fireplaces what are the benefits?

Stone Veneer for fireplaces what are the benefits? A stone veneer fireplace is a great addition to any home. It creates an ambiance that can’t be matched in any other way. Stone has been used for centuries, and with the modern advances of technology, it’s easier than ever to update your old fireplace or install one into your new home.  The stone veneer is an extremely versatile, very attractive and low maintenance way to decorate your fireplace. The flexibility of this medium means that it can be applied to virtually any surface. The beautiful appearance of these stone veneer fireplaces make them a great addition to almost any room in the house. They are also very affordable which makes them one of many popular choices for homeowners looking to improve their home without having go over budget. Stone Veneer Fireplace Benefits There are many reasons why people choose stone veneer fireplaces, but here are our top five: Easy Customization Stone veneer fireplaces enhance the look and feel of rooms. Veneer stones come in numerous colors, providing anyone with an opportunity to make their fireplace stand out. They are often lighter in color than actual stone, which is ideal in situations where the existing surface is either dark or very light, thus contrasting with the natural color of the new stone veneer. Budget Friendly It is generally less expensive to use stone veneers as opposed to other options that offer comparable aesthetics and durability. The cost-saving properties of this type of material often make it a popular choice for smaller projects like interior fireplaces, as it is easy to install and affordable. If you want to give your fireplace a facelift without spending a lot of money or undertaking a huge project, stone veneer can be a perfect choice. Stylish Appearance A quality stone veneer will give any room a more stylish appearance at a fraction of the price of traditional building materials, which is why it is popular among both homeowners and masonry contractors. More advanced techniques can be used when applying these products to ensure they are extremely durable and long-lasting. One example is using the thinnest mortar for installation, which allows for minimal “settling” after installation, reducing the chance for chipping or cracks in the future. Increase Value Having a stone veneer fireplace in your home can make it more appealing and valuable when the time comes to sell. Buyers appreciate aesthetic details, so a stone fireplace may enable your home to sell faster and for a higher price. Thickness A further advantage of veneered stone is that it comes in different thicknesses, making it easier to use in nontraditional applications. Typically, the thickness of stone veneers ranges from one to eight inches. Depending on the application, some stone veneers may also accommodate several inches of additional thickness. This advantage over other stones gives homeowners more flexibility when working on projects like indoor fireplaces that require thicker materials. Get Your Stone Veneer Fireplace Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

veneer stone fireplaces
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A guide about stone veneer fireplace

A guide about stone veneer fireplace It is impossible to imagine anything more inviting during the chilly winter months than the cozy glow of a fireplace. With beautifully designed fireplaces you can make these days classier and memorable. It’s why stone veneer is becoming a popular design feature in new homes. Homeowners are not restricted to stone surfaces only when they build or update hearth areas; stone veneer can be installed instead of natural stone for much less cost and maintenance. Thanks to high-tech products, homeowners can now easily create fire features within virtually any structure without confined spaces or large free-standing hearths. In many parts of the Canada including Fredericton, wood fireplaces have been replaced by gas or electric fireplaces as the main source of heat for a home. In some cases, they may even be non-functional or used merely for visual appeal rather than to provide warmth and ambiance. The thing is, even if you don’t plan on ever building a fireplace in your new home design –or updating your existing one – installing a veneer over concrete or another substrate can still be a great idea that provides instant curb appeal and enhances any room’s decor. With today’s high energy costs, homeowners are more aware than ever of their environmental footprint; using stone veneers instead of natural stone is an easy way to reduce the amount of waste that goes into landfills by reusing materials that have already been quarried. Stone Veneer Fireplace Requirements During the veneering process, custom curved profiles are created by heating the surface of stones with a propane gas flame until they become soft and pliable enough to bend. While this unique approach to stone fabrication is ideal for creating gentle curves around glass doors or other architectural details in your home’s design, it is not suitable for every installation. For example, if you don’t want large overhangs protruding from above your fireplace opening or vents where they do not belong because of code restrictions or physical obstructions, you need to choose another type of stone or wood product instead of fabricating your own stone veneer. Strength Stone fireplace veneers are manufactured with high-strength adhesives that offer high shear and peel strengths to ensure they won’t crumble or detach from the substrate, even after years of direct heat exposure. Firing temperatures for stone veneers range up to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on their thickness. Just remember that the thicker the material you choose, the more heat it will be able to withstand without breaking down or warping. Appearance The overall color and appearance of a stone veneer is determined by the chemical makeup of its natural stone materials as well as other factors such as coating additives, glues used in fabrication, firing temperatures and dyes. Each manufacturer will have a unique formula that not only creates amazing natural stone looks, but also differentiates between its product and other veneer materials. You can choose from a variety of colors or textures, including sandstone, slate, granite and limestone. Do you have a plan to upgrade your fireplace with stone veneer this winter? Just give a call to Atlantic Brick and Stone for a free consultation about all the ways to upgrade your fireplaces. We also provide fireplace repairs, masonry repairs, and other building construction services. Get Your Stone Veneer Fireplace Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

fireplace design
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Try these popular fireplace makeover ideas?

Try these popular fireplace makeover ideas? The beauty of a fireplace can instantly transform a room. No matter if you are remodeling or just want to update your space, here are some ways to modernize your fireplace and make it look great before colder weather hits Fredericton. To improve the appearance of your home, why not try one of these 14 fireplace makeover ideas? 7 Makeover Through Addition Build Shelves into Both Sides of the Fireplace The sight of a fireplace standing alone on a wall can be somewhat lonely. Add shelves on both sides of a wall to increase storage in your home and to fill it with more visual appeal. It will also make your room seem larger and more spacious. Install Tiles on the Hearth The mantels come and go. It is the hearth that has always been there, a decorative barrier between the fire and the shag carpet. Try adding some colorful tiles to spice things up. Changing the entire look of a fireplace — and a room — takes just a few weekends by installing new tiles. Install Tile Around the Fireplace Adding a tile edge around the fireplace instantly updates it. This is an easy project and the results are astounding. The existing tile might need to be tiled over or the whole tile could be pulled out. There are many options for ceramic flooring, including glass mosaics and marble herringbone tiles. You can incorporate a personal element into your fireplace design by working with an interior fireplace contractor. Remodel the Mantel to Fit Your Style A simple mantel surround made of MDF and wood becomes a charming addition to a small fireplace. You will love the new look of your fireplace after building a new mantel. Add Columns to a Fireplace Mantel If your fireplace already has a mantel, this fireplace makeover idea will work well. Make your fireplace more impressive by installing columns along the mantel. Hang Wood Planks Above the Fireplace The installation of plank wood above your fireplace will give the illusion of a bigger fireplace and higher ceilings. A dramatic look can be achieved by painting the planks in any color to match the decor. Herringbone tiles and white planks can add a beautiful touch to your fireplace. Install Stone Veneer Over Brick Do you want to replace an old brick fireplace? Install stone veneer or stone wall tiles to cover it and extend to the ceiling. Adding a custom fireplace mantel to a room with high ceilings will make this makeover even more dramatic! 6 Makeover Through Paint Whiten Your Brick Fireplace A whitewash is a reasonable intermediate step between painting and leaving a brick fireplace untouched. The rustic look and color of the brick will still remain, but if you don’t like the colors, they’ll be softened to give you a fresh look. Use a Bold Color to Paint the Brick Fireplace Whitewashed brick fireplaces that look beautiful are not the only choice, as you can choose other colors as well. Consider painting your fireplace black to give it a contemporary appearance. You may also combine it with a wooden mantel for a chic look! Vibrant colors, like teal, can also bring out the best results. When you want to redecorate it in the future, you can easily paint it another color. Turn a Painted Fireplace into a Brick-Looking One Perhaps you bought a house where the previous owner painted over the bricks, and you don’t like the appearance. You can paint the bricks so they look like bricks! This also allows you to choose the brick color that suits your decor. Keep the Brick Fireplace Stained If you don’t want to paint, consider staining your fireplace. For example, a gray fireplace stained with a traditional red can create a warmer, inviting look. Spray Brass Accents Brass is becoming popular again, but if brass accents on the fireplace aren’t your style, simply spray them away for an updated look. Overlap Old Tiles with Fresh Paint Painting over a fireplace surround you don’t love is an easy way to upgrade your heating system temporarily. Consider a trendy black paint or use a stencil to create a mosaic look, like a Moroccan tile effect. 1 Makeover Through Rebuilding Convert Your Fireplace into a Concrete Fireplace This project involves a bit of work, but the results are fantastic. With the help of Atlantic Brick and Stone, you can turn your brick fireplace into a concrete one for a modern, sleek look. This fireplace makeover idea is budget-friendly and transforms your fireplace entirely. It’s no longer necessary to live with a dated fireplace with these makeover ideas at your fingertips! Are you planning to give any of these fireplace remodel ideas a try, or looking for more inspiration? Contact the Atlantic Brick and Stone team, and we’ll be happy to assist in transforming your fireplace into a more modern look. Get Your Stone Fireplace Design Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

fireplace mental designs
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Professional Fireplace Mantel Designs Ideas

Professional Fireplace Mantel Designs Ideas A fireplace’s mantel is often the first thing that comes to mind when most people picture it. The display area is where keepsakes, family photos, and other decors can be found. One of the best things about this place is that the seasonal decorations come out every year to evoke fond memories. Many homes have a mantel as the focal point of the room. In this post, we will share with you some professional fireplace mantel designs ideas. Mantel is Not Necessary It was historically necessary to have a fireplace mantel to prevent smoke from escaping the grate. A mantel is no longer a necessity with modern fireplace technology. Though it doesn’t seem necessary today, many people like to incorporate this time-honored characteristic when creating mantel designs. Fortunately, since the mantel no longer serves any functional purpose, there is design freedom to give a unique look. Whatever trend is prevalent in living room design, you can build a decorative mantel that fits. Stone Texture Creating a mantel from the stone around the fireplace is an excellent idea. Build a shelf above the grate by extending or rotating the pieces. A smooth shelf or one with a playful irregularity can be produced by the type of stone used. A uniform mantel can also be created by incorporating a large horizontal stone piece. Regardless of how the mantel integrates, it will create a visual texture that is elegant and pleasing to the eye. Luxurious Rustic Design Materials and colors combined will transform any house into a unique and appealing space, so if rustic luxury is the look you’re after, a mantel might be the right choice as part of your decor. You can create a simple, natural mantel using a single beam of wood. In different shapes, you can convey a heavy, bold theme or a sleek, streamlined one. Consider leaving the wood rough-hewn or adding a live edge to give the space a more rustic feel. The contrast of the wood makes a sophisticated appearance when it’s combined with other materials like marble, wallpaper, or slate. Turn the Corner Do not limit the mantel to just one wall when designing a three-sided fireplace or corner fireplace. Mantels that wrap around one or two corners can create an eye-catching look, especially when coordinated with the other elements of the room. Using the shelf to display items might also be appealing if you have extra surface area. Artistic Elegance Design freedom is yours, so why not use it? Utilize a variety of materials to create a sculptural mantel, such as driftwood, metal, plaster, brick and stone. You can create a look that is unique, regardless of whether your tastes tend toward the sharp edges of modern art or the organic curves of natural materials. A Playful Pattern A fireplace mantel gives you the opportunity to express yourself. You can incorporate a personal element into your fireplace design by working with an interior fireplace contractor. Maybe you told them about the intricately patterned tiles you saw on your last trip to your friend’s home in Fredericton. Perhaps you want to remember your colorful living room from your childhood. Your mantel design should incorporate imagery that brings a smile to your face every time you look at it. Mantels may not be necessary anymore, but that does not mean they should be permanently removed. Make the most of the opportunity to create a look that is uniquely modern and luxurious. Start with a clean slate and see what ideas develop; your imagination and creativity are the only limits. If you are still confused about how you can bring the best look to your fireplace mantel, call Atlantic Brick and Stone fireplace interior expert to find out more. We have an experienced team of designers who can help you choose some of the latest mantel designs. Get Your Stone Mental Installation Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

Brick Fireplace
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Best way to clean your old brick fireplace

Best way to clean your old brick fireplace Fireplaces provide the perfect focal point for living rooms, but they aren’t easy to clean. Even the best-maintained brick fireplace will accumulate some soot over time. Because bricks are porous, and they have small holes — cleaning them isn’t just a matter of wiping the soot away. Cleaning brick, however, can be made much easier through a few helpful tips. Here is a step-by-step guide to cleaning soot from a brick fireplace. Remove All Ashes from the Fireplace Let the fireplace become completely cold before starting. Whenever you’re ready to clean up, remove the grate and any leftover ashes. Remove the soot and dust manually by using a vacuum with a brush attachment. Wet Your Bricks There’s one trick to cleaning brick fireplaces: first wet the bricks with water, and then apply a cleanser and scrub them. As you will be working inside your home, make sure you put down a waterproof drop cloth first. By absorbing the water, the porous brick will block the absorption of soap and other cleaning solutions, so the soap will remain above the surface instead of sinking. The bricks can be wetted down using a masonry sponge, available at most hardware stores. Prepare Cleaning Solutions There are several options available; you can use many ingredients for this purpose, and most of them are easily available in your kitchen like vinegar, dishwashing detergent, lemon, or you can buy a readymade, more robust cleaner from any mart. But we will share with you the method to clean your brick fireplace with a vinegar solution. It is the best option to use diluted white vinegar, although it is acidic enough that it might damage bricks older than 25 years, so care must be taken. Make your cleaning solution using warm water and vinegar in equal parts. If you want, dishwashing detergent can also be added, but only a small amount—about two tablespoons per gallon is enough. Get the Bricks Clean In a spray bottle, put the gentler cleaners and spritz them directly on the bricks. If you don’t have a spray bottle, you can use a sponge or paintbrush to apply the cleaning solution to the bricks. To avoid streaks on previously cleaned areas, make sure you work from top to bottom. Keep dry bricks under control by scrubbing the surface in circular motions with a firm, plastic-bristled scrub brush. After a few minutes, lightly reapply the cleaning solution and clean the soot stains. Wash with Water Before you move on to the next area, rinse the area you’ve just scrubbed. Each spot should be washed several times with a sponge dipped in clean water. The water needs to be changed if the rinsing bucket gets dirty or soapy. Remove Any Remaining Stains with a Spot-Cleaning Solution If there are stubborn soot stains on any large surfaces that have been cleaned with the solutions above, you may have to go back and clean those spots separately. To accomplish this task, either baking soda or cream of tartar mixed with water should be used. Let it sit for five to ten minutes, and then apply it to the remaining soot. After that, scrub with a stiff toothbrush or small scrub brush, then rinse with water. This is all you can do to clean your old fireplace’s brick. Don’t you like your old brick fireplace and want to upgrade your interior fireplace? You can call Atlantic Brick and Stone. We have a skilled team of fireplace interior designers that can guide you to transform the appearance of your old brick fireplace into a modern one. Get Your Fireplace Renovation Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

chimney leaks
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Chimney Leak do you know these 4 main causes?

Chimney Leak do you know these 4 main causes? In Fredericton, severe weather is more frequent throughout the year. It means there is a lot of rain, high winds, and lightning that could lead to damages and leak in your chimney. Despite the fact that the weather cannot be controlled, there are things you can do periodically to help prevent chimney leak. In this guide you will find information that what the 4 main causes of a chimney leaks are. 1. Damaged Chimney Caps It is essential that you keep water out of your chimney by using chimney caps. Water won’t flow down the chimney flue because these fittings cover the opening on the chimney’s exterior. Additionally, caps keep debris and animals from building up and prevent downdrafts. And they also keep stray sparks from landing on your roof. Despite the strength of chimney caps, any chimney cap can be damaged or blown off during bad weather. It is easy to replace a chimney cap when it is broken – simply call a professional to do it! There are a number of affordable caps available, and they provide unparalleled protection. If you require repair or replacement, do not hesitate to get in touch with our chimney repairs contractor in Fredericton. 2. Cracked Chimney Crown Crowns are made primarily for the purpose of keeping out the rain. A cracked crown can be caused by a shift in the structure or shrinkage. As a result, water can flow directly into the chimney. In most cases, a coating material can be used to fix this problem. Our team can help you replace or repair a damaged chimney crown. For a complete chimney inspection, you can call our Atlantic team at any time. 3. Rusted Chimney Flashing When the flashing is rusted off or pulls away from the chimney, water can seep into the structure and cause damage. To ensure the flashing around the chimney is in good condition, check the areas around the base of the chimney. A rusted flashing or one that is pulling away from the roof’s surface will have to be replaced. Flashing can be damaged by harsh winds and ripped away from a chimney easily, causing a chimney leak. 4. Damaged Masonry In most cases, water penetration damages masonry. Your leaky bricks and mortar joints can become brittle as they absorb water, causing cracks and crumbles. A freeze/thaw process is responsible for major leaks and water penetration, which will ultimately compromise the structure of your chimney. Be proactive when you suspect your chimney system is deteriorating, instead of allowing it to lead to costly chimney damage. You should call your nearest masonry repairs to fix the problem as soon as possible. If you suspect that your chimney has a leak, Atlantic Brick and Stone is here to help. We are experienced in the masonry industry and can help you solve any type of chimney problem. Get Your Chimney Repair Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

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