Rekindling the Magic: A Guide to Reviving Your Open Fire (with a little help from ProSweep)

The allure of an open fire – the dancing flames, the cozy warmth – is timeless. But before you light that first log, it’s essential to ensure your fireplace is safe and efficient. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of reviving your open fire, from assessing the existing structure to ensuring proper ventilation. Remember, alterations to fires and fireplaces are classified as building work and are subject to Building Control approval. Always contact your Local Authority before commencing any work. And for a professional chimney sweep in Devon, look no further than ProSweep Chimney Sweeps.

Understanding Your Fireplace Structure

Let’s break down the key components of your fireplace:

  • Blocked-Up Fireplace Opening: This is often the starting point, concealing the original fireplace.
  • Hearths: The constructional hearth (a concrete slab providing a fire barrier) and the superimposed hearth (the decorative surface).
  • Fireback: Protects the wall from the fire’s heat.
  • Lintels: Structural elements supporting the brickwork above the fire (constructional and throat-forming).
  • Flue: The passage within the chimney for combustion gases.
  • Chimney: The brickwork housing the flue.

Step-by-Step Revival Process

  1. Initial Assessment:
  • Hardboard Cover: Carefully remove if present.
  • Bricked-Up Opening: Look for the “builder’s opening.” Check for an air brick or ventilator. Carefully remove a couple of bricks to investigate.
  • Chimney Check: A lit taper near the opening should show a drawn flame if the chimney is clear. A still flame suggests a blockage.
  1. Opening Up the Fireplace:
  • Safety First: Protect your room from dust and debris.
  • Preserve Existing Features: Don’t disturb a sound fireback or lintels.
  • Professional Advice: Consult a HETAS installer or building control officer if you find a space above the opening, dampness, or staining.

  1. The Essential Chimney Sweep: ProSweep Devon to the Rescue! Before any further work, call ProSweep . A clean chimney is paramount for safety and efficiency. ProSweep’s expertise and 15 years of experience ensures your flue is free of obstructions, creosote buildup, and other hazards, allowing for optimal airflow and minimizing the risk of chimney fires. They’ll also be able to assess the overall condition of your chimney and advise on any necessary repairs.

  2. Hearth Construction:

  • Constructional Hearth: Ensure it meets regulations.
  • Superimposed Hearth: Must be non-combustible.
  • Back Hearth: Provides a level surface for the fireback.

  1. Lintel Inspection: Do not disturb the lintels!

  2. Fireback Installation:

  • Repair or Replace: Minor cracks can be repaired. Extensive damage requires a specialist.
  • New Firebacks: Ensure they meet British Standard dimensions.
  • Proper Installation: Allow for expansion.
  1. Chimney Inspection and Flue:
  • External Check: Inspect the chimney above the roof.
  • Building Regulations: Chimneys should be pressure smoke tested.
  • Flue Clearance: Ensure the flue is clear and gas-tight. ProSweep Chimney Sweeps can often perform a smoke test as part of their service, giving you added peace of mind.
  • Chimney Pot: Check it’s sound and correctly fitted.
  • Flashing: Verify the waterproof seal.
  • Professional Inspection: If in doubt, contact a HETAS installer for a full inspection. Chimney lining may be necessary.
  • Flue Dimensions: Flues for open fires must meet minimum size requirements.

Why Choose ProSweep The Devon Chimney Sweeps?

ProSweep Devon are your local experts in  Newton Abbot, Torquay, Dawlish, Teignmouth, Bovey Tracey, Lustleigh, Chagford, and surrounding areas.for all your chimney needs. Their professional service includes:

  • Thorough Sweeping: Removing soot, creosote, and other debris to ensure a safe and efficient fire.
  • Chimney Inspections: Identifying potential problems and advising on necessary repairs.
  • Smoke Testing: Verifying proper draw and identifying leaks.
  • Expert Advice: Providing guidance on maintaining your fireplace and ensuring its longevity.

Key Considerations:

  • Building Regulations: Always check with your Local Authority.
  • Professional Help: Don’t hesitate to call on qualified professionals like ProSweep Chimney Sweeps and HETAS installers.
  • Safety First: Prioritize safety.

By following these steps and partnering with trusted professionals like ProSweep Chimney Sweeps, you can safely and effectively revive your open fire, creating a warm and inviting heart for your home. Contact ProSweep today to book your chimney sweep and start enjoying the magic of your open fire!