Fireplace - Part 1

The restoration of the fireplace has started with a rather drastic removal of wallpaper and old electric fire. The fire was resting on soil and old tiles and had caused damp to get into the wall, so it was a great chance to treat the damp and get a fresh new look. Here are some before and after shots of the removal:

I want a rustic-looking fireplace, with a tiled hearth, bare bricks and a classic surround.
I managed to pick up this rather lovely surround in about the right size from eBay, for the bargain price of under £30!

Investigation of the chimney by a professional chimney sweep has unfortunately shown that although the smoke is being drawn up, the chimney leaks and will cost £1600 to line. This is out of budget, so the fireplace will be for-show rather than for-real, but the aim is to make it as close as the real thing as possible, so any future owners can line the chimney and have a real fire if they wish.

Knocking out a fireplace can be a tricky job and is one for the professionals. It must be structurally safe, with a lintel across the opening to keep the bricks above in place. Stoves and fires must be fitted by professionals in order to comply with building and safety regulations. If in doubt, consult a professional!

Work will continue over the next few weeks and hopefully it won't be long before my sittingroom centrepiece is finished!

February 2015