Chimneys again

We had previously agreed with the builder that we would stick with the plans in terms of flues and chimneys. The plans specifiy a chimney breast width of 1.5m and 200 mm diameter flue pipes, though it does state that these sizes are to be "discussed and agreed with the client".

However, now that we can actually see the base stones for the chimney breast, which mark out the basic size of the fireplace openings, we are having second thoughts. This width of chimney breast looks too narrow for such a large room and I think it will be out of proportion. I fretted about this a little last night, and did some research on the internet late into the night. The result is that I think the fireplace opening is also too small. There will not be sufficient width for a decent sized log burning stove, or fireplace.

I thought that one of the problems with extending the width of the chimney breast was that it impinges on the steel beams. However, having spoken to the builder this does not seem to be an issue, as long as the flue pipes are out of the way. This should be fine, as I am only talking about extending the width of the chimney breast and the fireplace openings. The flue sizes will probably stay the same (with one possible exception, to be discuused in a future blog) and can be located over to one side (as per the plans). We have agreed to extend the chimney breast to 2m width. This will be much more in keeping with the room.

I apologised profusely to the builder, as we had previously told him to go with the plan. We should really have laid out some blocks in advance, or pencilled some shapes on the ground as it really looks different once you see it "in the flesh". He didn't seem to mind - better to change it now when only two blocks high, rather than later when it is half way to the roof !