Can i block up my fireplace?

[ThyJones]

Hi All,

We are decorating our lounge, i have capped off and removed the old gas fire, there is now the hole (see photo). I am building a fake chimney for a tv wall and electric fire, but not sure if i can safely block off/cover the old hole. Not sure if it needs ventilating somehow or filling with insulation or just plaster boarding over.

Advice would be appreciated please.

 

[Leofric]

Needs ventilation.

 

[ThyJones]

Needs ventilation.

Does it have be anything specific or any specific size?

 

[Brigade77]

Does it have be anything specific or any specific size?

Last one I blocked we used an offcut of hardiebacker with 5x 1" holes at low level. This was then tiled over (don't block them holes) with an ornate log grate bio-ethanol burner & fake logs. This leaves the option to open up the fireplace later.

If you want to completely block it then brick it up but use 1x airbrick, again at low level, then plaster over to suit.

 

[mattylad]

Ideal space for that hidden cupboard, the safe, secret booze store

 

[bobasd]

OP, you usually open up to appliance Mfr's required dimensions.
you typically sweep the flue and wire all accessible soot.
the flue must be vented at bottom and top.

i've no idea how an elec fire and a fake chimney fit into things (is that a projecting chimney breast?) - do you have a drawing of some kind to post?