Fitting a fireplace - carbon monoxide?

[conks]

Hi

I have an open fire in the lounge and I am wanting to rip out the brick surround and fit a cast iron insert and timber surround/mantel.

As I've never done this before it's a little daunting and I had though that I read somewhere that you have to make sure that both the insert and surround are sealed accordingly using fire cement (? - where can you buy this from?) or fibreglass rope (again - where is this obtained?).

THe reason for this I believe was to supress the potential escape of carbon monoxide although, as it's a real open fire burning coal and wood (and not gas) is this relevant?

What else do I need to fit the fireplace?

Many thanks.

 

[Richard C]

What else do I need to fit the fireplace?

Use a registered HETAS installer & get a certificate of compliance or submit a Building Notice so that your LABC can issue one; it’s notifyable building work.

 

[conks]

It's not a gas appliance - solid fuel and there's no structural works so why would it be necessary to notify LABC?

Thanks.

 

[stuart45]

Hi
THe reason for this I believe was to supress the potential escape of carbon monoxide although, as it's a real open fire burning coal and wood (and not gas) is this relevant? Many thanks.

Solid fuel produces more carbon monoxide than gas.

 

[Richard C]

It's not a gas appliance - solid fuel and there's no structural works so why would it be necessary to notify LABC?

It must still comply with Building Regs & there are several of them. It has nothing to do with the fact it’s not gas, burning solid fossil fuel is just as dangerous as has been pointed out. It has nothing to do with structural works either, more to do with preventing you from asphyxiating yourself & the rest of your family. A little bed time reading for you;
http://www.solidfuel.co.uk/main_pages/news.htm
There is also a link to specific Building Regulations within the text.

 

[mikric]

As of Oct 1st you will need to install a carbon monoxide detector