Fireplace Installation

[Andy_C]

We’ve bought a Victorian fireplace to replace our old 70’s monstrosity, however I’ve some installing questions.

1) We need to clean the surface. It is ‘clean’ cast iron, not the usual black surface but a detailed polished finish. Before we bought it the ironwork was left outside overnight – just enough to add a layer of surface rust.
What is the best cleaner to use to restore the surface whilst not scratching it?

2) Do we need a restriction in the chimney? My option at the moment is to locate the ironwork into the open flue using the fire damper as a restriction. Or do I need the extra moulding / smoke shelf to create the draw?

3) Our Damper is missing - where can I salvage a one from? We have a parallelogram space 145mm high, 320mm wide at top, 265mm wide at bottom. There is one location ridge in the centre of the rear location support. (I'm in the Midlands, UK)

Any help appreciated!!
(I hope to get some photo's online asap)

 

[oilman]

[quote="Andy_C]1) We need to clean the surface. It is ‘clean’ cast iron, not the usual black surface but a detailed polished finish. Before we bought it the ironwork was left outside overnight – just enough to add a layer of surface rust.


What is the best cleaner to use to restore the surface whilst not scratching it? [/quote]

Brass brush and then use black lead (Hot Spot, really it's graphite).

2) Do we need a restriction in the chimney? My option at the moment is to locate the ironwork into the open flue using the fire damper as a restriction. Or do I need the extra moulding / smoke shelf to create the draw?

You may need something, but restrictions do not create draught in a flue. For greatest draught, you need no restriction. Restrictions reduce the draw, and so slow down the rate heat goes up the chimney. For this type of change you should have probably contacted building control.