Chimney Breast support

Sean K · 11 Aug 2021

Hi Guys,

Just wanting some advice on a loft chimney breast support.

At this moment in time i haven't actually gone into the loft to measure it, but the breast runs down of course from the roof, loft, into bedroom 1 and the living room.

The idea is to take it out of the bedroom to allow for wardrobe space and then take it out of the living room to allow for a bit more space since above is being removed.

It's a 1930s, 3 bed, mid terrace.

Does anyone have any idea, how this works to support the loft and remove everything below?

Currently in the breast, is a back boiler with a gas fire on the front, which is all being removed soon for a new heating system to be installed.

blup · 11 Aug 2021

The stack could be supported in the loft by a gallows bracket or steel beam depending on what your SE advises after inspection. Drawings should be submitted to BC prior to commencing work.

Blup

Sean K · 11 Aug 2021

Would this be relatively simple for a builder to do , do you think?

JP_ · 11 Aug 2021

Take the whole lot out. I had this dilemma with my 1930s bungalow. A builder looked and advised that the cost of structural engineer to design a bracket, then make bracket, and get building control approval, would be less than just taking the whole lot down. I had spare roof tiles, so that is the only issue with a 1930s house - might be hard to find matching tiles. But quicker and no concerns about brackets etc. Plus, if you ever wanted do a loft conversion, there's no massive chimney in your way.

Sean K · 11 Aug 2021

Djangobanjo said:
Take the whole lot out. I had this dilemma with my 1930s bungalow. A builder looked and advised that the cost of structural engineer to design a bracket, then make bracket, and get building control approval, would be less than just taking the whole lot down. I had spare roof tiles, so that is the only issue with a 1930s house - might be hard to find matching tiles. But quicker and no concerns about brackets etc. Plus, if you ever wanted do a loft conversion, there's no massive chimney in your way.

The loft space is small, so a conversion isn't anything I'm looking at. This is my first house aswell. The only thing about taking it all out, is the neighbours is backed onto mine.

JohnD · 11 Aug 2021

And saves future roof maintenance round the chimney.

JP_ · 11 Aug 2021

Get a quote to do both, maybe from a few different companies. Might be cheaper and quicker to remove all.

blup · 11 Aug 2021

Sean K said:
Would this be relatively simple for a builder to do , do you think?

An experienced builder could do that from plans, but there is cost in getting materials up to, and working in, a loft.

An alternative to complete removal would be to install cupboards around the flue, board out the loft, add lighting, a decent ladder, and create additional storage there.

Blup

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Chimney Breast support

Sean K

blup

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