Originally Posted by
Tartan
Is the fireplace wood or gas? With gas, I would suggest getting an estimate from a fireplace expert to give you the cost of replacement. If it is wood, is it the insert that is rusted or the mesh screen. If it is the mesh screen, I would buy rust proof, heat proof aerosol paint and spray paint it WHEN THE FIRE IS NOT ON!!!!
I agree...and if it is removable, it will be a lot easier to deal with. I have only experienced this problem with a house that hasn't been lived in for a while, or is damp. You may want to address any damp issues whilst you are fixing up the rusted parts. If it is a wood fireplace, you may need to see if moisture is coming down the chimney.