Stone Chimney Construction Details

Like ours not all chimneys have a cap but can be installed by a professional.

Stone chimney construction details.

It s a lot easier learning how to build a fireplace like this in new. Go to the nfpa website to review national fire code associated with chimneys. Typically the reference used for local building codes is based upon the national fire protection agencies 211 standard for chimneys fireplaces vents and solid fuel burning appliances. The code is available online for free.

This is the second in a series of. Masonry chimney construction guidelines masonry chimney foundation an adequate concrete footing is required and must be able to support the weight of the chimney and or fireplace. 19 residential fireplace design 19a residential fireplaces details and construction 19b residential chimney design. Check with local code to determine minimum requirements for all footings and reinforcements.

These same recommendations are applicable to conventional fireplace construction when the provisions for the exterior air supply system are omitted. It is important to note that masonry chimney construction building code requirements often vary on a local basis depending on what your city requires. The crown is located at the top of the chimney alongside the chimney cap and helps to protect the materials used within chimney from the weather. The crown helps keep the inside of the chimney moisture free by diverting water away from the chimney.

Chimney height and flue area are the two most critical factors in chimney desire. I recommend you read these three things. The brick industry association has three excellent pamphlets about fireplace and chimney design and construction. Watch this short video to see properly sloped firebox brick.

Hiring a professional contractor to build a stone chimney or fireplace is expensive. Consult your local construction codes when designing your chimney. However building a stone chimney is an excellent project for the experienced do it yourself homeowner. Bricks concrete blocks or stone for the structure cement mortar a mix of one part portland cement one part hydrated lime and six parts builder s sand is recommended flashing precast chimney cap made of concrete or stone sheet metal and masonry tools such as a masonry trowel and level.

Attractive stone is difficult to locate and gather and there is a large amount of intensive labor and skill required for quality construction. Contains recommended details and construction techniques which when used to execute a proper design will yield a functional energy efficient fireplace. While each community has its own codes for building chimneys most codes are based on the national fire protection agencies 211 standard. A masonry fireplace consists of a brick or stone firebox a brick or stone chimney and more often than not a wood mantel.