Builders opening

[Scaramanga73]

Hi, have a question regarding fireplace expansion in readiness for a log burner.

I've already removed plaster and replaced the old brick arch lintel with a concrete one but, as I was about to start taking a half brick out on either side, I'm concerned that the chimney throat is supported by the bricks I'm about to remove.

Am I safe to widen a builders opening by half a brick?

Once I've worked out how to add pics I will

 

[ree]

You have to work to manufacturer's dimensions under HETAS guidance.

Research on here, the same Q asked many times.

 

[Scaramanga73]

You have to work to manufacturer's dimensions under HETAS guidance.

Research on here, the same Q asked many times.

Thanks, I will be able to comply with HETAS guidelines if I expand the builder's opening by half a brick on each side. My concern is whether I can do this without collapsing the main throat.

Photos here show what I mean :

chimney throat

• Scaramanga73
• 6 Oct 2014
• 1

No apparent knitting of bricks into the front or rear wall

front

• Scaramanga73
• 6 Oct 2014
• 1

You can see the line I've chased in which I hope to take out now that I've put in a lintel above

 

[ree]

You will be OK doing what you propose.