Arse about face

[padstar]

I know this is not the ideal way of going about things but I need to prepare the downstairs room for a pad foundation for the extension which involves removing the chimney breast.

The chimney was removed above roof level when the roof was refinished. So it currently runs from ground floor level to 1st floor ceiling. The chimney breast will be removed upstairs also but in a few months time due to logistical issues.

Will an arrow prop from ground floor to 1st floor joist level to the front of the chimney breast be sufficient support? If I can work it I will joist out the opening if that would support it.

In reality would this support itself? Not suggesting I don't prop it but just want some peace of mind whilst working below.

 

[padstar]

Any takers?

 

[SpecialK]

Prop it or install some temporary gallows brackets if it keeps underneath clear for working?

 

[oldbutnotdead]

It would probably hold itself up but for the cost of an acro and a bit of stick why chance it? It doesn't need to be a massively strong prop, just firm enough to prevent any movement that could be caused by vibration from your digging/whatever else.

 

[padstar]

Thanks. I have acrows so will be propping i just wanted a bit of peace of mind whilst removing the initial brickwork to get the props in there.

 

[oldbutnotdead]

You might want to play really safe by needling it (take out one brick either side of the breast, run a 4 x 2 through, prop at either end then dismantle the rest). Depends how good the mortar is (if its old lime then might be a bit more likely to move)