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04-03-2019, 06:32 AM #1
sand deposits at hearth extension
These sand deposits were found on an inspect of a house unoccupied for an unknown time period. Massive chimney column rises from ground all the way up and through.
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04-10-2019, 12:52 AM #2
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04-10-2019, 04:15 AM #3
Re: sand deposits at hearth extension
Improper mortar mix
Jeff Zehnder - Home Inspector, Raleigh, NC
http://www.jjeffzehnder.com/
http://carolinahomeinspections.com/
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04-10-2019, 09:22 AM #4
Re: sand deposits at hearth extension
Mason-ry Bees ! Probably weren't Union -
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04-10-2019, 09:29 AM #5
Re: sand deposits at hearth extension
Looks like efflorescence on some of the bricks on the surround. My guess is moisture penetration through the chimney and powdering up of the brick from moisture. Any issues on the exterior chimney structure like damaged pointing or a damaged mortar cap?
"It takes a big man to cry. It takes an even bigger man to laugh at that man". - Jack Handey
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04-10-2019, 12:19 PM #6
Re: sand deposits at hearth extension
I can?t tell from my phone photo but masons years ago and today fill the void behind the fire brick and masonry block with sand , allows for thermal expansion with out the rigidity of cement or brick causing resistance.
Joseph Ehrhardt
Building Forensic Specialist LLC
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08-17-2020, 10:49 PM #7
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08-18-2020, 08:37 AM #8
Re: sand deposits at hearth extension
I agree with Nick about the efflorescence. I've seen it when fireplaces are located in basements that aren't occupied / kept warm.
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08-28-2020, 03:46 PM #9
Re: sand deposits at hearth extension
Efflorescence but also mortar deterioration from moisture. Whether moisture adsorbed into the surface then absorbed on the exterior face and crown or damp rising, water will be driven inwards and down by gravity and vapor diffusion. Once the salt concentrates, its like a magnet for more water and thus propagates an insidious cycle. The cool surface of a basement fireplace makes for a nice condensing surface for humid basements. Most people close the damper thus cutting off ventilation. Of course, being in a negative pressure zone, humid outdoor air would be drawn down the flue into the basement so correct the house's pressure regimes.
Keep the fire in the fireplace.
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