I hope I don't get shouted down for just suggesting this...
I'd like to install an open fireplace in the lounge to replace one that was bricked up many years ago. The original constructional hearth inside the fireplace remains, but the one that reaches out into the room was smashed out when the last owners installed wooden flooring. The wood flooring now goes right up to the wall where the bricked up fireplace is.
Installing a new construction hearth would be expensive and involve a lot of work. Instead, could I lay a thin bed of mortar on top of the wood, and then lay a new decorative hearth on top of that, then fit the fireplace inside the opening as normal?
I know this wouldn't meet current building regs, but there is another replacement open fire in the house that is built this way and is fine. The hearth never even gets particularly warm.
Thanks for any advice.
I'd like to install an open fireplace in the lounge to replace one that was bricked up many years ago. The original constructional hearth inside the fireplace remains, but the one that reaches out into the room was smashed out when the last owners installed wooden flooring. The wood flooring now goes right up to the wall where the bricked up fireplace is.
Installing a new construction hearth would be expensive and involve a lot of work. Instead, could I lay a thin bed of mortar on top of the wood, and then lay a new decorative hearth on top of that, then fit the fireplace inside the opening as normal?
I know this wouldn't meet current building regs, but there is another replacement open fire in the house that is built this way and is fine. The hearth never even gets particularly warm.
Thanks for any advice.