Fireplace lintel question (again !)

[tireetim]

I've removed a 1930's fire surround and would like to open up the fireplace for a small stove, however there doesn't appear to be a lintel. Is this the case or should there be one hidden somewhere? I can't believe the two arches of bricks would be strong enough on their own.
Can I remove the fire back and infill as is or do I need to first install a lintel and any advise on how to do this (how do you support the bricks above while a cutout is made and the new lintel fitted)?
Thanks.

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• tireetim
• 29 Jan 2013
• 1

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[dann09]

This question, with pics and details, has been answered a bunch of times in the last few weeks. Perhaps you will research some of the posts?

 

[tireetim]

Yes Dann, I remembered reading something similar a while back so I spent quite a while looking for it or similar posts but couldn't find it (hence the 'again' in the title of my post) ! Perhaps I'm just not very good at searching or am searching with the wrong words. I'll have another go but in the mean time if anybody can post a link to a relevant thread it would be appreciated.
Thanks !

 

[dann09]

Perhaps start by looking at "Similar Topics" at the bottom of this page.

 

[tireetim]

Ah yes, I've never even noticed that was there. Thanks ! I've found another post now that sort of helps answer my questions.
Cheers.
P.S. Perhaps I'll learn how to use this forum properly sometime soon !