Fire back
Inform Guide: Fireplaces, published by Historic Environment Scotland on 1 April 2008 and last updated on 31 August 2020 states: ‘Given the heat that can be generated by open fires, fireplaces require a fire back at the rear of the opening. Some fireplaces have backs of cast iron fitted into the opening to protect masonry and radiate heat. More commonly, the fire back is built into the wall and made of refractory fire bricks. It is important to maintain the fire back as it protects the surrounding masonry. When replacing refractory fire bricks, it is vital to replace them with other refractory bricks as common bricks will quickly crack and fracture.’
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