Hi All:
I have a question on enlarging a fireplace probably built in 60s to fit an insert, I have some construction experience but not really with masonry. I want to remove the red parts to raise the lintel. It will be removing some parts of the throat. I saw a couple of YouTube videos and the process did not show any support needed, folks simply knock those bricks off and then install a lintel high up, I just want to confirm no additional supports or temporary bracing are needed before doing the work. First image below is the actual fireplace and the second a cross section diagram,. Green is the new lintel and the red scribbled area is where I will be removing the bricks/cement. I appreciate the guidance!
I have a question on enlarging a fireplace probably built in 60s to fit an insert, I have some construction experience but not really with masonry. I want to remove the red parts to raise the lintel. It will be removing some parts of the throat. I saw a couple of YouTube videos and the process did not show any support needed, folks simply knock those bricks off and then install a lintel high up, I just want to confirm no additional supports or temporary bracing are needed before doing the work. First image below is the actual fireplace and the second a cross section diagram,. Green is the new lintel and the red scribbled area is where I will be removing the bricks/cement. I appreciate the guidance!
