Is this a lintel??

[jonmc1980]

Hi, everyone i'm looking for some advice. I'm currently making a hole for an electric fire in my chimney breast. I've removed some plaster so far but have just come across two metal bars at the top of the old opening (see my pics). Is this a lintel? I've looked further up the chimney and can see the original stone lintel much higher. Thanks for any help!

 

[JohnD]

you mean [net]115401/7975_48243840.jpg[/net]

View media item 7975
http://www.diynot.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=129539

http://www.diynot.com/network/DIYnot/albums/67

they look to me like copper water pipes, perhaps previously used for a back boiler.

do not cut them until you know they are not still connected and full of water.

 

[jonmc1980]

thanks for the advice can you suggest how I can check this?

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

Drill a hole in them.

 

[JohnD]

I can only suggest following the pipes to see where they go. probably up towards a hot water cylinder or something.

 

[jonmc1980]

I managed to expose the ends and they were acting as lintel. Thanks for the help

 

[fitz1]

someones used a couple of pipes as a lintel. remove them and fit proper lintel.