Chimney & Fireplace

concrete lintel in fireplace - does it have to be high temperature resisting?

Anonymous user 03/03/2024 - 3.06 PM

Hi, I'm opening up a plastered over fireplace and the previous owners have used a concrete lintel as they never intended to use it as a fire. my question is will an ordinary off the shelf (wickes or b and q) concrete lintel do or does it have to be a specifically made high temperature resisting concrete lintel. I know there are fireplace lintels with a chamfered edge for better venting but I'm fitting a woodburner. Also, they have plastered right into the fireplace, does this need removing right back to the existing brickwork? Any help would be greatly appreciated THANKS