Hello,
I had a clay fireback with about 3inches protruding all the way around following the removal of a large brown tiled fireplace and subsequent replastering. Trying to fit a new mantle and surround and it became clear that the protrusion just had to go as it would mean the surround would have to sit outside the mantle. I took an angle grinder, drill and concrete saw to it and have managed to get it flush, but then (and only then) did it cross my mind there may be asbestos in the clay. Could anyone shed any light on how likely this is? House was built 1920's although style of fireplace suggests it may have been a c1950's addition. The colour of the exposed material is yellow/pink with grey/black flecks. There is a grey stripe visible through the middle towards the bottom, but that may be a mark left by the tools when I cut it.
Thanks for your help.
I had a clay fireback with about 3inches protruding all the way around following the removal of a large brown tiled fireplace and subsequent replastering. Trying to fit a new mantle and surround and it became clear that the protrusion just had to go as it would mean the surround would have to sit outside the mantle. I took an angle grinder, drill and concrete saw to it and have managed to get it flush, but then (and only then) did it cross my mind there may be asbestos in the clay. Could anyone shed any light on how likely this is? House was built 1920's although style of fireplace suggests it may have been a c1950's addition. The colour of the exposed material is yellow/pink with grey/black flecks. There is a grey stripe visible through the middle towards the bottom, but that may be a mark left by the tools when I cut it.
Thanks for your help.
