Chimney breast
A chimney breast is a portion of a
chimney stack.[2] Chimney jambs similarly project from the wall, but they do so on either side of the fireplace and serve to support the chimney breast.[3] The interior of a chimney breast is commonly filled with brickwork or concrete.[4]
The construction and appearance of a chimney breast can vary according to function and style. English and American builders more often treat the chimney breast and fireplace as distinct architectural features, whereas French buildings have gradually trended towards concealed construction.[5]
False chimney breasts
False chimney breasts are sometimes constructed around a
overmantels
or fireplace surrounds.
Removal
Chimney breasts often become redundant with respect to their function as a chimney after the installation of alternative heating methods, such as
I-beam.[6] In some cases, support on a steel beam and post, or by gallows brackets
may be acceptable.
Other factors that need to be considered when removing a chimney breast are:[7]
- Fire safety, in particular for party walls.
- Noise insulation
- Effect on neighbour's chimney
- Damp prevention
- Ventilation
References
- ISBN 978-0-13-197094-6.
- ISBN 9781842190975.
- ISBN 1-4051-1055-4.
- ^ Hugh Chisholm (ed.). Encyclopædia Britannica (11 ed.). p. 527.
- ISBN 9780393730753.
- ^ "Am I safe without a chimney breast?".
- ^ "Chimney stack removal and the Building Regulations".