Masonry and Modular Masonry Fireplaces

If you are older than 40 years old, a masonry fireplace is probably the type of fireplace you remember from your childhood. A modular masonry fireplace has only been around for about 30 years. Both masonry fireplaces and precast modular masonry fireplaces can be built as vent free fire boxes.

A masonry fireplace is the most expensive type of fireplace you can build. It requires a special foundation and is very labor-intensive.

A precast modular masonry fireplace is the next most expensive product you can install.

Those cost considerations are why factory built fireplaces are, by far, the most widely installed type of fireplaces installed. 

Let me explain the difference between a masonry and  a modular masonry fireplace…a masonry fireplace is constructed of brick or stone. A better word for modular masonry fireplace is a precast fireplace. Modular masonry or precast fireplaces go together like Legos. They are usually cast from concrete which would contain a lightweight insulating material. At first look, both masonry fireplaces and precast fireplaces look the same when you are looking at the firebox. 

 A big difference between a brick chimney and a precast modular masonry chimney is that you cannot modify, in any way, a precast modular masonry fireplace. Although precast modular masonry fireplaces have proven to be pretty durable, if a component in the system besides the fire brick or siding material gets damaged, there is not a repair available.

Below we will expand a little bit about the two different masonry products. A masonry fireplace is allowed to be constructed of any standard brick or stone. A precast modular masonry fireplace uses components that are produced in a factory. You are not allowed to modify or change or repair any of the components. (Note: Precast modular masonry fireplaces sometimes are installed with factory built sheet steel chimney.)

The biggest advantage to a home owner of a masonry fireplace versus the precast fireplace is that a masonry fireplace can be modified, repaired and virtually any aftermarket insert from gas logs to inserts (wood, coal, gas and pellets) can be installed. All components of a standard brick or stone built masonry fireplace can be repaired or replaced. A masonry fireplace can be modified generation after generation versus a factory built fireplace. Think about it, most fireplaces are the only appliance in your home that are built in behind very expensive masonry and or stone. To replace a factory built fireplace which has a lifespan of around 30 to 35 years the entire facing of the fireplace usually has to be removed. 

The most common problem that affects usability of both types of fireplaces is water penetration from rain. Although not required by code in most areas, all masonry structures should have a proper rain cap installed. Additionally, the crown/wash (flat top of the chimney where the flue liner passes through) of the chimney should be inspected annually if not completely covered.

In regards to a masonry fireplace… The quality of the Mason installing your fireplace is everything. We run into more issues with masonry fireplaces than any other type of fireplace due to improper construction techniques. The good news is, these problems can be repaired.

A regular brick mason, especially today, is not the person you want to build your fireplace. You want a fireplace mason. A fireplace is more than just a firebox with a hole on top. A fireplace mason is a very technical trade… imagine spending $30,000 for a fireplace that doesn't work!

It is getting harder and harder for us to recommend a masonry or modular masonry fireplace for new construction unless the customer wants to install a wood stove insert in that fireplace. You can get the same look nowadays by purchasing a factory built fireplace at a fraction of the cost and get the real firebrick look! And when that factory built fireplace wears out, you can replace it for less than you could have built the masonry fireplace in the first place.

Stay safe and warm.