What is the fuzzy looking white stuff that grows inside the fireplace on the liner bricks? Seems to be some sort of chemical reaction! Is there a sealer or some other treatment for it? It brushes off easily and is then vacuumed up.
Efflorescence. The minerals from the masonry materials bleeding out of the brick. It generally means water has penetrated the surface somehow and has made its way to the affected area.<br />Do a google search, tons of info.<br /><br />Good Luck!<br />Dave
Usually it's the lime used in the mortar. You see it on brick exterior a lot. Any moister can leach it out. The more used in the mix the more and easier it leaches out.
According to Google, the problem I'm having with the growth on the liner bricks is related to the bricks on top of the chimney flaking off in places: interaction with moisture. Gracias for your ideas and suggestions, which Mr. Google agrees with. He's some smart guy. Seems to have an answer for everything.
