Project Overview:
When homeowners on SW Ridgeview Lane in Portland’s scenic Arnold Creek neighborhood decided their aging fireplace was due for some attention, they knew that a complete rebuild was likely necessary. Nestled between Collins View and the lush greenery that characterizes Southwest Portland, this 1970s ranch-style home required extensive chimney and fireplace renovation that would both preserve its character and bring it into the modern era.
The project, located just minutes from the popular Tryon Creek State Natural Area, started with a fireplace inspection where we discovered significant deterioration including compromised mortar joints and inadequate ventilation that posed potential safety risks. The original arched firebox, a common feature in homes throughout the Arnold Creek-Collins View district, required complete rebuilding to meet current Portland building codes. Not to mention the customer did not like the aesthetic of the current fireplace and wanted a more modern look and easier functionality.
Renovation Process
The renovation process started with demolition of the old fireplace, removing all brick and mortar. Our first phase of this remodel includes installing a new concrete hearth foundation and carefully selecting dark multi-toned brick that would complement the home’s Pacific Northwest aesthetic. Each brick was meticulously laid using a modern spacing technique that created clean, precise lines while maintaining the traditional charm expected in Southwest Portland homes. The upper portion of the fireplace was transformed with custom-milled cedar planking, locally sourced from Oregon suppliers, and finished with a warm chestnut stain that brings out the natural wood grain patterns.
Design Elements
The transformation required specialized masonry techniques unique to the Portland area, where high rainfall and humidity demand extra attention to waterproofing and ventilation. Our team installed a premium gas insert rated for 40,000 BTUs, perfect for heating the open-concept living space that’s so characteristic of Arnold Creek homes. The insert features a contemporary black finish with realistic ceramic logs and multi-point flame adjustment, providing both ambiance and efficient heating during Portland’s cool, wet winters.
The vertical wood treatment above the fireplace required particular attention to detail. Using 1×4 cedar planks with precise 1/8-inch spacing, our craftsmen created a striking accent wall that extends to the ceiling. Each plank was individually sanded, stained, and sealed to withstand the varying humidity levels common to homes near Tryon Creek. The rich chestnut stain was custom-mixed to complement both the dark masonry below and the home’s existing hardwood floors, creating a seamless design flow throughout the living space.
What sets this project apart is the attention to the technical aspects behind the beautiful facade. The chimney liner was completely replaced with a UL-listed stainless steel system, and additional insulation was added to meet Portland’s stringent energy efficiency requirements. The project also included the installation of a custom-fabricated chase cover and rain cap, essential features for Southwest Portland homes exposed to significant annual rainfall.
Technical Improvements
The technical improvements implemented during this SW Ridgeview Lane project went far beyond surface-level aesthetics. During the demolition phase, our team discovered significant moisture damage in the original chimney structure, a common issue in Portland’s Arnold Creek area where annual rainfall averages exceed 40 inches. To address this, we installed a comprehensive waterproofing system that included a military-grade vapor barrier behind the new masonry and specialized flashing at critical joint areas
One of the most crucial upgrades was the installation of a dual-layer venting system. The primary B-vent liner, measuring 8 inches in diameter, was encased in high-temperature insulation to maximize draft efficiency and prevent condensation – a frequent problem in Pacific Northwest chimneys. The secondary air intake system ensures optimal combustion for the new gas insert, while maintaining proper air-fuel ratios across varying atmospheric conditions common to the Collins View elevation.
The project also demanded significant structural reinforcement. We installed a hidden steel support beam above the firebox to distribute weight evenly across the new masonry, ensuring long-term stability. The hearth foundation was rebuilt using high-strength refractory concrete rated for extreme temperature fluctuations, with additional reinforcement bars tied into the existing floor joists. This level of structural integrity is particularly important given the seismic considerations for homes in Portland’s West Hills region. The project also included the installation of a custom-fabricated chase cover and rain cap with an integrated spark arrestor, essential features for Southwest Portland homes exposed to significant annual rainfall.
To ensure optimal heat distribution throughout the living space, we integrated a smart fan system that automatically adjusts based on firebox temperature. The fan’s variable speed motor operates at just 35 decibels, making it virtually silent while efficiently circulating warm air throughout the room. This feature has proven especially valuable during those damp Arnold Creek winters when efficient heating is essential.
Results
Our customer is very happy with the results of this project – having gone from a dilapidated fireplace in desparate need of chimney repair to keep it functional to a modern, warm, efficient, and beautiful hearth that invites community and connects the family together.
For your own fireplace restoration or chimney repair needs, give Portland Fireplace and Chimney a call at (503) 758-4710.