How easy to install an open fire

LeeUK · 8 Nov 2014 at 14:35

Since having the old back boiler removed in the summer with having a combi installed, I'm left with this big hole.

How easy would it be to install a working open fire within this space without knocking down the 80's style stone work? Chimney is in working order as it was still in use up until the back boiler was removed and swept.

Participant · 8 Nov 2014 at 14:42

Not sure, but if I was going to go to the effort of installing a nice new fire, I'd flipping well want rid of that stonework!

LeeUK · 8 Nov 2014 at 14:47

Participant said:
Not sure, but if I was going to go to the effort of installing a nice new fire, I'd flipping well want rid of that stonework!

Yes, but funds are limited unfortunately.

the_r_sole · 8 Nov 2014 at 14:49

I would be more tempted to put a stove in there rather than an open fire - I lived with an open fire for about 5 years before getting a woodburner installed and it is just so much better!!
(also looks like there was previously a back boiler in there before so you'll need to deal with the pipework there)

LeeUK · 8 Nov 2014 at 14:52

I think the pipe work is dead, there is 4 pipes in total but only 2 have caps on the end which you can see. No idea why as they don't seem to get hot so I assume they are dry also.

Jez · 8 Nov 2014 at 14:58

When you say installing an open fire, if the chimney is already clear with a good draught then all you really need is to plonk a stone base down along with a fire basket.

So in answer to the question of how easy - very.

LeeUK · 8 Nov 2014 at 15:18

Jez said:
When you say installing an open fire, if the chimney is already clear with a good draught then all you really need is to plonk a stone base down along with a fire basket.

So in answer to the question of how easy - very.

Sounds interesting.

kaptainmarc · 8 Nov 2014 at 17:47

You not tempted by a stove?
Keeps the heat for longer and less mess to deal with

BF-Bert · 8 Nov 2014 at 19:41

Looks like the fireplace has been removed when the back boiler was taken out, this would need to be rebuilt. Hearth my need replaced too, is it timber?

LeeUK · 8 Nov 2014 at 20:10

It used to be Parkray back boiler there which was removed. The bottom of the fire inset is either stone or cement. The hearth is actually marble under those 4 gray tiles, just needs sanding down and cleaning up.

Would love a wood burning stove but that would probably push the price up too as everyone seems to want to install chimney liners with these also.