Masonry Magazine December 2012 Page. 17
WINTER IS APPROACHING, AND FOR MANY OF US, THAT MEANS LIGHTING A FIRE TO WARM OUR BONES AND OUR SOULS. Perhaps one of the most opulent examples of a mason's talents can be showcased in the work of a fireplace, chimney or masonry heater. Masonry heaters are more popular than ever and offer an ability to control the amount of heat being emitted. This can be a real asset in a home or business.
We wanted to learn a little more about masonry heaters, so we went to that industry's most trusted source, the Masonry Heater Association of North America, www.mha-net.org. Masonry spoke with Stephen Bushway, president of the association. Following is what he had to say.
Masonry: Explain the difference between a masonry heater and a standard fireplace.
Stephen Bushway: Whereas a fireplace vents the smoke in an upward direction directly, in a masonry heater the gases circulate through firebrick or refractory lined passageways, shedding much of the heat en route to the chimney. For this reason, masonry heaters need to have doors on the firebox. This enhances combustion by limiting "excess" air and creating turbulence in the firebox. The firebox in a masonry heater is basically a box: The side walls are not splayed but are at right angles to the opening, further aided combustion by re-radiating heat back to the fire.
Masonry: How difficult is adherence to codes and standards, and why is it important to do so?
Bushway: Complying with building codes is no more difficult than with a standard fireplace. Because they are
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Stephen Bushway, President of the Masonry Heater Association of North America
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MASONRY 15