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The bottom of the chimney, when there are fireplaces, is usually built hollow to form a receptacle for the ashes from the grate. If the fireplace is to be used frequently an ash pit is almost a necessity, especially in residences, and should always be provided when practicable. When the fireplace is above the ground floor a flue can generally be built to connect the bottom of the fireplace with the ash pit. When there is no furnace flue the ash flue can be carried down at one side of the lower fireplace, thereby saving 4 inches in the thickness of the chimney. One ash flue will answer for several fireplaces. A cast iron door and frame (usually about 10x12 inches) should be built in the bottom of the ash pit to permit of removing the ashes. The ash pit, rough opening and flues form the chimney, and are all built at the same time by the brick mason, who also builds the trimmer arch. |
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The various steps in building such a fireplace are to first level up for the hearth with brick or concrete, after which the hearth and "under fire" are laid, the metal frame at the edge of the opening set up and the lining and the backing for the tile facing built. After this work is completed the tile facing is set, and when the mortar has dried out, the mantel, if of wood, is set against it. It is best to use glazed tile for the hearth and facings, and they should always be set in cement mortar. The sides of the lining or fire box should be beveled about 3 inches to the foot, and the back should be brought inward at the top so that the opening into the flue will be only about 3 inches wide. |