Steps to install an open fire

[dominoman]

We moved into a 4 bedroom Edwardian house recently and would like to put a fireplace back in in the lounge. The fireplaces have all been removed years ago and boarded up.

I am a fairly competent DIY-er and would like to try and do the work myself.

Broadly the plan is to
1. Remove all the lining paper and plaster from the chimney breast
2. Carefully open up the fireplace and find the lintel or arch - if there is one
3. Fit a hearth and fireplace
4. Fit the fireplace
5. Fit the surround.

Is there any of that that I should get a professional builder or HETAS person to do? I'm not that concerned about building regs and I will get the chimney swept before installing.

One other question... Do I need to fit a fireback (see pic) behind the fireplace, or can I just install a reclaim fireplace without it?

Thanks

Untitled

• dominoman
• 13 Jan 2015
• 1

 

[foxhole]

What about cleaning the chimney and making sure it's safe so you don't die of carbon monoxide poisoning.

 

[dominoman]

What about cleaning the chimney and making sure it's safe so you don't die of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Yes - I will have it swept before installing the new open fire. There is an excellent draw and the chimney is in good condition.

 

[Bosswhite]

Thought should also be given to lining the inside of the chimney from the bottom of the pot to fireplace.

 

[dominoman]

Thought should also be given to lining the inside of the chimney from the bottom of the pot to fireplace.

Definitely hoping to avoid that, given the extra cost. We won't be using the fireplace often, and only ever for wood.

Is it likely it will need lining for that?

 

[Burnerman]

Your business entirely of course, but have you considered a wood or multifuel burning stove, together with a flue liner? Much more efficient!
Which ever route you choose, please ascertain that the existing chimney is in as good condition as you assume.
John

 

[Bosswhite]

Thought should also be given to lining the inside of the chimney from the bottom of the pot to fireplace.

Definitely hoping to avoid that, given the extra cost. We won't be using the fireplace often, and only ever for wood.

Is it likely it will need lining for that?

Being an ex firefighter I have seen several Chimney fires turn into roof fires,
Especially when burning wood.

Better safe than sorry.