External chimney stack removal can be done from outside the building and, if done carefully, need not disrupt any internal decoration. An internal chimney breast can be removed at ground and/or first floor without having to remove the external stack..
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Does removing a fireplace decrease home value?
But losing a fireplace can affect a home’s appeal and possibly even its resale value, real estate pros say. A fireplace can particularly be viewed as a valuable amenity in colder climates, and removing one could even reduce the number of buyers drawn to a property, some agents say.
Do I need a structural engineer to remove a chimney breast?
NB You are always likely to require the services of a Structural Engineer if you intend on removing the chimney and breast. If you don’t get an expert involved, you risk serious structural degradation to your property which might result in the building collapsing which carries the risk of death.
How easy is it to remove a fireplace?
If you have a more modern fireplace, such as a gas fire or electric fireplace rather than a period open fire, then removing an old fireplace surround shouldn’t be too difficult. However, it does require a little DIY skill to ensure you don’t make too much mess of your wall.
Are fireplaces load-bearing?
A fireplace is generally load-bearing when it’s positioned against or inside the exterior walls. They function as structural support here. Fireplaces located or positioned against interior walls are generally not load-bearing.
How do you remove a fireplace chimney?
Does fireplace add value to home?
Return on Investment
A homeowner can often recover over 100 percent of the expenses associated with adding a fireplace upon selling their home. According to the National Association of Real Estate Appraisers, adding a fireplace to home can increase the resale value of the home by as much as 6-12 percent.
How much does it cost to knock down a wall with fireplace?
A partial chimney or fireplace demolition costs $500 to $2,000. A complete removal could run $4,000 to $6,000. Because chimneys are often deeply integrated into the structure of your home, it is important to invest in the cost of a structural engineer for about $500 prior to demolition.
Do I need planning permission to remove a chimney? Planning permission is not normally required to remove a chimney stack or a chimney breast from a dwelling as long as it is not a listed building or located within a Conservation Area and any repairs/infilling to the roof is done using materials which match those already used on the property.
How do I know if my chimney is structural?
For a chimney to be structural, the following recommendations must be observed: Tip-1: The chimney must be covered with a tin or concrete cap, which is 50 mm wider on all sides than the chimney.
Can you remove a wall with a fireplace in it?
Knocking down a wall with a fireplace is possible if done correctly. If the wall you want to remove isn’t load-bearing, meaning it’s not a supporting structure to another level, then, yes, it is possible to remove it.
Are old chimneys load-bearing?
Old Homes
A chimney through the middle of a home does not always indicate load-bearing; however, the chimney’s masonry may be used to anchor beams and joists.
How do you remove a chimney from an old house?
How do you remove an old brick chimney?
How do I know if my chimney breast is structural? Commonly most of the chimneys’ come with a concrete cap. It’s an extension that is found on top of the chimney’s smokestack. In the case of the structural chimneys, they come with chimney pots.
Is a chimney considered structural? Chimneys 101
A majority of chimneys are independently supported and are not structural to the walls or roof. However, it isn’t uncommon for chimneys to be in the middle of a home or stretch from the foundation, through multiple stories, and out the roof.
Why are old chimneys left standing? No one thought about the history they were building. They just wanted a safe, secure home for the ones they loved. So the next time you are driving and you see a lone chimney standing, don’t just fly by.
What permission do you need to remove a chimney breast?
Planning permission is not normally required to remove a chimney stack or a chimney breast from a dwelling as long as it is not a listed building or located within a Conservation Area and any repairs/infilling to the roof is done using materials which match those already used on the property.
How do you remove a chimney from the roof?
Is a chimney breast load bearing?
When you take out a chimney breast, you are also removing an important load-bearing wall. Because of this, you will need to ensure the structural integrity of your building isn’t put at risk – which means you need expert guidance and approval from your council to be certain the job is done safely.
Can you remove half a chimney stack?
Yes. Removing a chimney involves major structural work, and if the chimney stack is shared, this cannot be done without permission being granted from the neighbouring property.
Can you knock through a wall with chimney breast?
Chimney breast walls, although sometimes there for cosmetics—are often constructed for structural support. If you want to rip out the wall, you’ll need a professional to give it a once-over, so you won’t cause irreparable damage to the rest of your home.
Do you need Neighbours permission to remove chimney breast?
If the chimney breast is attached to a wall between your home and another building you’ll need to serve a Party Wall Notice on your neighbour before work can commence. Any gas, plumbing or electrical appliances and services need to be isolated and changed/removed before you begin.
Can you remove a chimney breast yourself?
It is possible to take out a chimney breast, but bear in mind the fact that this is not a quick DIY job you can do yourself. When you take out a chimney breast, you are also removing an important load-bearing wall.
How do you update a fireplace on a budget? Learning to DIY: How to Update a Fireplace on a Budget
- Add a touch of paint. Gone are the days of design elements such as bold and bright red fireplaces and natural, oak-colored wall paneling and trim.
- Turn your brick to stone.
- Add a mantel.
- Think — and build — outside the box.
- Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize.
