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Chimney & Fireplace

Can I replace cracked concrete constructional hearth in 1900 house with non-functioning fireplaces?

Anonymous user 09/03/2024 - 3.04 PM

Hi All For a non functioning fireplace, can I remove a cracked concrete constructional hearth, put in a few trimming timbers, and put down a mock MDF hearth slab which I'll paint? The situation is that the chimney stack has been removed from the attic upwards and I'd like to put mock non-functioning Victorian fireplaces in the remaining chimney breasts. Thanks in advance

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3 Answers

Anonymous user

Yes that's possible. You would have to remove the existing hearth very carefully as it will probably be reinforced with steel rods and may form part of the brick work in the chimney breast wall. Then fit new timber joists and flooring and mock hearth. If in doubt contact building control in your area for some free advice. Norman
Answered2 October 2019
8

Local Woodburners Limited

Rating: 5 out of 5
Arlesey
Your constructional hearth should be at a similar height as your floor joists, so unless you are going to remove the chimney breast in the future, you could just leave it, and use a 12mm or 20mm slate as your new hearth for your non functioning Victorian fireplace. If the constructional hearth you're talking about is in the bedroom, you will also need to be careful of the ceiling beneath when removing it.
Answered2 October 2019
2

Heritage chimney sweeps and fireplace fitters

Rating: 5 out of 5
Prestonpans
If it is the constructional hearth that is cracked you can remove it no problem at all as long as the fireplace is not getting used. If you do go back to using solid fuel i.e open fire you will have to replace the constructional hearth.Regards Jamie
Answered13 October 2019
0