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Are Cracks in a Fireplace Dangerous?

two children sitting beside indoor fireplace

A cracked fireplace may not seem like a big deal compared to its cozy warmth, but is it dangerous?
In a previous article, we discussed chimney cracks. This article will answer the question, “Are cracks in my fireplace dangerous?” Let’s get started.

Are Cracks in a Fireplace Normal?

Winter Home and snow

A fireplace provides a warm, inviting atmosphere to a living space during winter, but ensuring its safety is crucial for efficiency. Cracks in a fireplace pose serious fire hazards. They can allow free-flowing embers to escape and ignite nearby materials, permit toxic indoor gas leaks, and allow heat to escape. This inefficiency raises energy bills and increases house fire risks.

Address fireplace cracks promptly to ensure safety and optimal performance. Avoid DIY repairs, as they can lead to further damage and safety hazards. Instead, contact a professional foundation repair specialist.

Do Fireplace Cracks Mean Foundation Damage?

Leaning-brick-chimney

Fireplace cracks can signal potential foundation issues. Despite often having separate foundations, chimneys are vulnerable to soil instability and settlement. This compromise can lead to chimney separation, leaning, or collapse, jeopardizing the safety of gas and wood-burning fireplaces.

While not always directly related, these cracks may indicate broader foundation problems. Professional inspection is recommended to assess and prevent further damage.

What to Do Next

Fireplace cracks may indicate serious underlying issues that require professional assessment. Our resource pages provide more information on foundation or waterproofing topics.


If you’re concerned about fireplace cracks or foundation issues, contact JES Foundation Repair for a free inspection to ensure your home’s structural integrity and safety. Click the button below to get started!

Foundation Repair FAQs

Typically, the entire concrete repair process is completed within a single day, depending on the extent of the damage and the scope of the project. The PolyRenewal™ foam solidifies in just 15 minutes, allowing you to use the area shortly afterward.

JES Foundation Repair is committed to providing reliable and durable solutions. We offer transferrable warranties on our services to ensure you can avail yourself of a safe and secure foundation for years to come. You can discuss the details further with our expert during the inspection visit. 

It is generally recommended to have your foundation inspected at least once every few years, especially if you notice any signs of foundation problems such as cracks in the walls, uneven floors, or doors and windows that stick. Regular inspections can help identify any potential issues early on and prevent them from escalating into more significant problems. Additionally, if you live in an area with unstable soil or experience extreme weather conditions, more frequent inspections may be necessary. 

Shaye Glisson

Shaye Glisson

Shaye is an SEO Content Writer for Groundworks with over twelve years of experience creating helpful content across various industries, including home services and retail. She is a Gulf Coast native and writes from her firsthand knowledge of the area's hurricane and flood impacts on the local community. In her free time, Shaye enjoys exploring the local food and music scenes.

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JES Foundation Repair service area map of the Mid-Atlantic region.

Our Locations

Baltimore

8361 Town Center Ct
Nottingham, MD 21236

Fredericksburg

311 Central Rd.
Suite 2-02
Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Hampton Roads & NE NC

2569 Quality Ct
Virginia Beach, VA 23454

Northern VA & DC

7940 Gainsford Ct.
Bristow, VA 20136

Richmond

309 Quarles Rd
Ashland, VA 23005

Southwest Virginia / Roanoke

2033 Cook Dr.
Salem, VA 24153

Western Virginia

456 Old Courthouse Rd
Appomattox, VA 24522

Winchester

45 W Boscawen St,
Winchester, VA 22601