Enlarge fireplace for electric fire and safety issues All manner of questions and solutions to problems and issues surrounding the subject of brickwork, blockwork and stonework

[lanham]

I need to enlarge my fireplace to inset an electric fire. The hole needs to be 56cm wide and 52cm high and 12cm deep. I have seen and heard all sorts of horror stories about chimneys collapsing, the need to put a lintel in as a support etc. As a non builder I cannot see how cutting a hole 12cm deep could cause the chimney to fall down. What is the safe way to do it? Should a lintel be put in above the hole (before the hole is enlarged). If so, how high above the top of the hole should it go?

Thanks

Brian

[welsh brickie]

for a structural job of this nature I would have a builder do it for you, Its alright for us to tell you how to do it, But there may be some unforeseen problem that could occur, that could cause major damage, so my best advice is that you call a professional tradesman.

[lanham]

Thanks for your reply. Unfortunately, I am having a problem finding someone to do the job.

Brian