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Chimney & Fireplace

Cover up false fireplace alcove

Anonymous user 23/02/2024 - 3.31 PM

We have replaced our old fireplace which sat in a recess in the wall. The house is 20 years old terraced house and does not have a chimney. The new fireplace is an electric one that fits flush against the wall so the alcove needed to be covered up. A plasterer came and used timber inside the recess and then used plasterboard to cover the alcove. The house is about 20 years old... We do not have a chimney so the alcove was just a hole in the wall. Does this need a vent putting on? The job has been finished and the fireplace is now operational too. I just have a nagging feeling in the back of my mind and I dont want to cause any condensation/damp issues. Thanks

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4 Answers

Kent fireplace installations

Rating: 5 out of 5

Gravesend

The chimney pot at the top should be vented to stop rain ingress, and a vent in the chimney at the bottom , so as it has a constant airflow. This will prevent any damp. Most important is the vented cap on the pot.

Answered1 May 2020

Damp Cure Services

Rating: 5 out of 5

Cambridge

If as you stated the chimney stack has been removed then simply put a vent into side of plasterboard wall so air doesn't become trapped behind.

Answered2 May 2020

Fires and Flues

Rating: 5 out of 5

Horley

If there is no chimney stack, is it a old fireplace recess where the chimney has been removed above the roof? If so just a air brick in the plasterboard would be fine so the recess or void can breath.

Answered4 May 2020

Probuild Contracts

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Edinburgh

If there's no outside chimney the wall space between the roof and the old fireplace opening becomes an empty void like a cavity wall like on every house so nothing needs done period.

Answered6 May 2020