Opening up a fireplace

[Anonymous]

Hello

I have two bricked up fireplaces in a late Georgian townhouse that I would like to open up. From peering through the air grate, it looks like the fireback has been removed, and there may have been a partial collapse of the fle into the builder's opening (ie sections of brickwork lying in the void).

I am looking for a contractor who has experience of this - who can deal with the whole process (including possibly lining the chimney) and fitting the surround, grate, etc.

Who does this - I am not sure a "normal" builder is the right choice? I am in London, if anybody has any recommendations.

Any help or advice would be very welcome.

Many thanks
Craig

 

[Anonymous]

After fitting many cast iron fire places over the years I have only just found out the best way of filling the void behind (as per a challenge tommy programme).
Fill the void with a sand, cement & Vermiculite (fire proof insulation) mix. This will ensure that maximum heat is thrown out into the room and minimum heat is lost behind.
I have just used this meathod and it really works.
Hope this has helped

 

[Anonymous]

Sorry answered wrong question

 

[Anonymous]

Although in the wrong post - voids do need to be filled, but I'd be wary of cement! Nasty stuff...

 

[Anonymous]

The fact that you can see signs of brick rubble doesn't necessarily mean that there's been a collapse. The void between a fireplace lining and the chimney back is normally filled with masonry rubble, so if someone has taken the liner out you might be able to see brick rubble.
Any competent builder ought to be able to do these jobs for you. Note the word "competent"! I would recommend asking any builder for references before you agree a job with him. And follow up the references - they could just be his auntie and his cousin!
I'm not in London (thank goodness!) so I can't suggest anyone I'm afraid.