Refractory panel replacement

[Cuda416]

Our home has an outdoor fireplace the previous owner installed that uses a fireplace insert instead of a fire box constructed of fire brick. The refractory in the rear of the unit basically crumbled as soon as I looked at and needs replacing.

My problem then has become, do I replace the refractory panel in the deteriorating fireplace insert or do I rip it out and build up a proper firebox with actual firebricks instead. The fireplace itself looks rather nice but the only problem is the insert is aging. Another problem is that I have no idea what the internal structure is. Could be dimensional lumber, or it could be solid brick. The guy seems to have done some things with a mind for overkill so I'm guessing solid brick but I really won't know until I dive in.

So, how hard is it to build up a firebox in an existing structure using fire brick?

What gotchas are there and how best to avoid any in the first place?

Any advice is appreciated.

 

[Richard Cranium]

pull it out, put in a new one, then you know what you have.

 

[gungatim]

probably cheaper to just put in a new insert. you can buy the pre-cast refractory panels, as you are supposed to replace them if/when they crack, but not knowing the age of that thing, rust, etc. I'd just replace the whole thing...

 

[Cuda416]

2 for 2, now I just need to find one Any recommendations for outdoor use inserts?

 

[Bretny]

Its a glorified fire pit. Why does it need refractory?

 

[Cuda416]

My understanding is its needed because regular stone can explode due to moisture content. In a fire pit all (most) the heat goes straight up and usually isn't in as close proximity. Inserts like this one are often used in "2 by" framed up boxes or inside homes where the shielding is much more pertinent. That's just a wag though.

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[gungatim]

also because the thin sheet metal box can't handle the heat on it's own.

as far as stones, I have a fire pit lined with field stones and they do get hot and some have already broken and split...it's actually pretty dangerous if the fire gets too hot (eg. burning boxes and brush). same with barbecues built from regular brick or cement block, they will not survive the heat.

 

[LS6 Tommy]

Some types of concrete or similar products can and will "pop" or "explode" when exposed to direct flame.

Tommy