Suspect cracked fireplace lintel

[Andyperry0]

Hi, I've uncovered what appears to be a hairline crack to a stone lintel fireplace. I'm
Not entirely sure if the crack runs through the whole lintel. The original fireplace was bricked up and an arga or similar placed in front. They then bricked through the brickwork to divert slightly the flu hence the missing bricks above the fireplace. I'd like to remove the remaining block work to install a log burner but am worried about the narrow crack and the whole thing collapsing if I do. I can't understand why they would install such block work and concrete without there being a risk of collapse. Any help Or suggestions would be most welcome.

 

[Koolpc]

You will have to check if its a full crack going through. If you are concerned, you could always install a new one while supporting the load, with care.

 

[jj4091]

You can't just install a woodburner yourself. Get some who is HETAS registered to advise you about the whole project.