Is it Possible to Remove My Chimney Breast Wall?
If you’re asking this question, you’ve probably got a space issue in the room where your fireplace sits and figure that your intrusive chimney breast wall could be removed and give you more room. This job is performed regularly by licensed chimney companies and skilled masons and builders.
However, the removal of a breast wall is not a project for the novice or the “handyman.” Removing the wall involves a lot more than just demolition, and care must be taken to keep from causing serious damage to the home and the fireplace/chimney system.
Chimney breast wall construction
The interior facing for your chimney above and around the fireplace likely was built when the fireplace was built – which likely was built when the home was built. For this reason, the wall must be removed through the correct processes as it may be an integral part of the construction of that area of the home.
The ceiling will need to be properly supported during the work and then may require some reinforcement after the work is done in order to remain safe. When your chimney breast wall is removed by skilled professionals, you probably won’t need any roof remodeling or alteration, but you will need to support the ceiling.
Because the breast wall is part of the chimney structure, the individual or company that does the removal must be very familiar with venting dynamics and general fireplace and chimney construction. This level of training and experience will ensure that the fireplace/chimney system operates safely and efficiently after completion.
Who to hire for a breast wall removal project
When looking for a contractor or chimney company, here are eight tips to help.
- Ask for local references and check them out
- Review the company’s website (if there is one) and see where their expertise lies
- Look at online reviews about the company on Yelp, Google and other sites
- Ask friends and colleagues if they know anything about the company
- Speak with a company representative and confirm that chimney breast wall removal is something they do (as opposed to something they think they can do just because they’re good with bricks and tearing stuff down)
- Ask questions about the project and make sure you get answers you understand
- Check with your local Better Business Bureau to find out if complaints have been lodged against the company
- Before you sign a contract, make sure you understand everything that’s in it including the expected condition of the work area when the job is finished
By following these and other common-sense guidelines, you’ll be able to find a chimney or building contractor who understands your project, is experienced in the work and has satisfied other homeowners with their quality and service.
Above & Beyond Chimney Service of Dedham, MA, is a Licensed Contractor and a Licensed Home-Improvement Contractor in the state of Massachusetts. We’re fully insured, and we’re certified through the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). We can help with your chimney breast wall removal project and do it right the first time.
Talk with a fireplace and chimney expert today at (781) 383-0415.