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Chimney & Fireplace

Do I need external AND internal vents for a blocked fireplace

Anonymous user 16/03/2024 - 2.40 PM

I am in the process of removing and blocking an unused fireplace to the downstairs of my house. The flues have been capped with an elephant foot style cap so water should not come in and are holes for ventilation. I have had differences in opinion from workman with regards to the inside. Some have advised me that internally I should fill the fireplace with bricks/blocks and include an air brick for ventilation. Others have advised that having the additional internal vent on the chimney breast could actually cause condensation/damp rather than prevent it and that I should simply block the fireplace as the external vents on the flue are sufficient. Any thoughts please?

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3 Answers

ADR Property Maintenance

Rating: 5 out of 5

Boston

You need to vent both ends of a chimney flue to prevent damp.& Change the vent on the top to a China man's. Hat as the elephants foot vent are crap and leek. Good luck alex

Answered2 March 2021

Cardiff chimney sweeps

Rating: 5 out of 5

Cardiff

What I would do is put a chimney cowl on top of your chimney which allows air to go down your chimney , at the bottom of the chimney if you block it off put a vent in to allow warm air to go up your chimney so it keeps the chimney aired , first of all I would get chimney swept

Answered3 March 2021

CLEANSWEEP Chimney Sweeping

Rating: 5 out of 5

York

You need a gentle flow of air to keep the redundant flue dry. This means having a small vent or opening at both ends. Getting the chimney swept first will reduce the chance of unwanted tarry smells, or a “soot fall” blocking the vent.

Answered25 March 2021