Can you still use gallows brackets?

Gallows brackets are only suitable in certain situations. It is recommended that they are not to be used if the brickwork to which they will be attached is bonded together with lime mortar.

In respect to this, do I need planning permission to take down a chimney?

Planning permission is only required for removal of chimneys if the property is a protected structure. You will need to review how floor joists at first-floor level are supported as these may be partly supported on the large chimney breast you propose to remove.

One may also ask, can I remove the chimney from my house? An external chimney stack can be removed from outside the building and, if done with care, need not cause disruption to internal decoration. Removing an internal chimney breast, however, will create lots of dust and debris, so the room should be cleared and sealed off from the rest of the property as best as possible.

Moreover, how much does it cost to take down a chimney?

Average Cost of Chimney Removal The cost to remove a chimney averages between $2,000 and $4,000 for a full removal; however, chimney removal costs vary from one chimney to the next for a number of reasons.

Do I need a structural engineer to remove a chimney breast?

If you discover that the chimney breast you want to remove is real, then you will almost certainly need to contact a structural engineer. Actual chimney breasts form part of the structure of a house – once removed, the addition of support beams may need to be incorporated to support any masonry above.

35 Related Question Answers Found

Are chimney breasts structural?

Breast. The chimney breast is both the most visible and vital portions of a chimney. This brick wall encases the flu and other functional parts, providing extra insulation and major structural support. Unfortunately, the breast has a habit of protruding into all the rooms it passes through.

What is a gallows bracket?

Gallows Brackets are a right-angled shaped steel support mechanism used to support the remaining Chimney Breast or Stack above and will be installed onto the party wall directly beneath the remaining element of the Chimney Breast or Stack.

Is a chimney breast load bearing?

The chimney breasts are part of the building's structure and taking them out should be approached in the same way as taking out a load bearing wall. In some circumstances a system of gallows brackets may be agreeable to the building inspector but you must check with your local building control office first.

Can you remove half a chimney stack?

Unlike removing the whole of a chimney stack, removing just half of it is notifiable under the Party Wall Act as masonry will be cut away from the party wall within and that party wall will be exposed to the elements where it was hitherto enclosed (both are rights provided by section 2(2) of the Act).

Why is it called a chimney breast?

A chimney breast is a portion of a chimney which projects forward from a wall to accommodate a fireplace. Chimney jambs similarly project from the wall, but they do so on either side of the fireplace and serve to support the chimney breast. The interior of a chimney breast is commonly filled with brickwork or concrete.

Do you need building regs to remove an internal wall?

You should not need to apply for planning permission for internal alterations including building or removing an internal wall. If you live in a listed building, however, you will need listed building consent for any significant works whether internal or external.

Will removing fireplace decrease home value?

“Fireplaces are a sought-after feature among home buyers, and removing them will negatively affect the value of your home,” says Dogan, who adds that they are inviting and evoke feelings of warmth and charm—especially in the Northeast.

How much value does a fireplace add?

The National Association of Home Builders notes that an outdoor fireplace can also increase a home's value! Nearly 80% of real estate agents in the poll conducted by Angie's List say both indoor and outdoor fireplaces increase a home's value by anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000.

How can I tell if a fireplace is load bearing?

If you look in the basement of your home and can see one or more beams holding up the structure, it is likely that the walls built on top of these beams on the first floor are holding up the second floor. The wall is perpendicular to the floor joists, especially if it is close to the support beams.

Does an electric fireplace add value?

Both electric and gas fireplaces add instant value to your home, but an electric fireplace adds minimal value, while a gas fireplace adds much more value. Although it costs more to install a gas fireplace than an electric fireplace, you may be able to recoup up to 91% of that cost when you sell your home.

Is Chimney necessary?

Well, Chimney is the need of every house. It is the heart of Chimney. It absorbs all the particles of grease as well as grime and makes your home fresh. That is why it is necessary for Kitchen.

What can I do with unused fireplace?

A more unexpected approach to placing logs in a unused firebox is to tuck in a basket filled with bundles of cut firewood. Moving away from the more predictable use of logs, a creative approach for an unused fireplace is to use it as book storage. It's not only a playful decorating idea but a functional one as well.

Do chimneys provide structural support?

It usually involves removal of some interior wall material, but perhaps not much. Chimneys of this kind seldom provide any structural support for the building, so they rarely need to be supplanted with framing as they are removed.

How much does it cost to build a chimney stack?

Installing a fireplace and chimney can vary dramatically in price depending on what you want. If you go for a full masonry fireplace, expect to pay at least $7000. If you cut costs and go for something a little bit less extravagant, you can pull the price down to around $2000.

How do I get rid of an old fireplace?

Method 1 Removing a Wood-Burning or Electrical Insert

Remove all of the trim from around the fireplace insert.
Remove any nails holding the insert flashing to the wood framing.
Disassemble any pipes, vents, or other pieces of the insert.
Pry the insert out of place with a crowbar.

How do you seal an unused fireplace?

You can seal off an unused fireplace by installing wood or light-gauge metal framing, insulation and drywall over the entire wall or opening. If you intend on using it in the future, install an insert constructed out of 2" rigid foam board glued to MDF. Seal around the insert using neoprene backer rod insulation.

Can I remove a chimney without planning permission?

Planning permission is not normally required for chimney breast removal unless the building is listed or situated in a conservation area. However, a Building Regulations application is required when some but not all of a chimney is removed.