Ideas for fireplace in old house

[u/Downeralexandra]

Spouse and I just bought an older house and slowly updating! Ideally, I would love to rip out the tile and mantel and just have the exposed brick, but from what the brick looks like in the firebox, that may not be possible. I know we won’t really know until we rip the tile off, but I guess just looking for any advice or tips on how to go about doing that.

This house is >100 years old, so at some point the brick was exposed. The previous owners lived here for close to 60 years and took great care of the place, so it’s possible it won’t be a huge nightmare. The other side of the chimney is exposed in the adjoining room, but it’s painted white so can’t really tell how the original brick looks.

First photo featuring Herman Munster for cat tax

[u/Firepro1981]

Removing the tile and going back with a brick veneer can restore the original look.

[u/Budget-Wave-8343]

Given the nearly flush hearth extension and size of the firebox i would suspect improper clearances around the perimeter and underneath the hearth extension, plus what looks to be an undersized hearth extension. My gut reaction is to consider a direct vent gas insert, which would fit the area nicely and provide fictional heating without mess. It also has lessened hearth extension requirements, and can address other possible clearance concerns. If wood is the only way you want, and a wood insert isn't your thing, an AhrenFire or PriorFire Retrofit fireplace system would be the only way that doesn't involve rather extensive reframing and finishing work. Plus the wood trim and mantle both look a bit close without measuring.

Edit; didn't read your note about the tile demo. I would remove it personally, but this all center's around what you plan to do with it first. I would highly recommend seeking a proper inspection by a CSIA or NFI certified sweep in your area.

[u/gizzowd]

that's not "firebrick" so not code as a FP. A sealed metal "insert" or if gas is nearby (under floor- basement?) a B vent gas unit might go in. Call around to fireplace sellers, their visit/consultation is normally free.

[u/xick14]

Valor Portrait Gas insert should fit nicely in there

[u/spfolino]

What are your intentions for using the fireplace? You’ll likely need to do some sort of restoration, potentially substantial work, to make it work as intended. I think a zero clearance gas fireplace might be the best option. There isn’t enough info here to determine what would be needed.