Novice 1970s brick fireplace surround.

[Gordale1987]

Hi all,

Just looking for some advice on removing this 1970's brick fireplace surround. As you can see I have made a start but suddenly thought I should stop and check I'm not doing something stupid. I'm very much a DIY novice.

When I moved in there was an electric fireplace sat Infront of the hearth which I've removed. Previously there must have been a gas fireplace installed that was bricked up. You can see the gas pipe capped off just Infront of the brickwork. Just wanted to check there's not likely to be anything of concern behind this brick work?

Many thanks

 

[Wayners]

Watch out for asbestos like sheets.
Get and smack it out. Taken out a few myself with a few problems like finding asbestos or pulling skirting that was nailed through a gas pipe.
All fun

 

[jj4091]

And a mountain of soot behind the center square that has been bricked up later.

 

[ree]

OP,
You should have no trouble opening up the fireplace, & removing all that horrible surround - all of it.
Dont go smashing anything out - lift the wood mantles and remove down from the top course with a hammer and brick chisel.
Before removing anything use your knife to pre-cut the paint and sealing all around the edge of the surround wherever it meets decorated plaster.
Remove debris and rubble as you work dont try & work over or through it.
What is your final purpose?

Ignore the nonsense of poster #2's suggestion to "smack out asbestos like sheets".