squaring off/ removing fireplace arch

[chris_milburt]

Hey first post, appologies if this is in the wrong location.

We just removed an old gas insert and are going back to wood burning. Now I want to add a pleasent hearth doors from lowes however it requires you attach to the lintel and the opening be squared. I do not have a lintel, however and ok drilling into te brick but I would need to remove the arch. Based on these pictures can anyone tell if the arch is decorative or load bearing?

 

[bholler]

That is a massive ammout of work just t oput some doors on an open fireplace.What are your goals with the fireplace? Are you trying to heat or just ambiance? It can be done but it is pretty involved and not a very diy friendly project

 

[madison]

agree with bholler.

also consider that you more than likely need to address if the chimney . i could be wrong but you should check your chimney situation first.

An idea instead of doors?? Search FPX wood fireplaces: http://www.fireplacex.com/ProductGuide/ProductDetail.aspx?modelsku=98500104

 

[bholler]

Well that is the wrong product madison. They already have a fireplace they dont need a zeroclearance fireplace just an insert

 

[chris_milburt]

It's mostly for the appeal of wood burning. Not a large room so heat isn't the biggest factor.

We considered getting a wood burning insert but for the price I just wanted something cheap in the mean time.

I went to lowes and measured some of the doors and figured it will fit with the arch. I would just need to drill the bracket (that normally attached to the lintel) directly into the arch bricks. Which may also be risky.

Does the chimney itself need to be inspected?

 

[begreen]

Does the chimney itself need to be inspected?

Always a good idea with an unfamiliar setup. Do this before investing in the doors.

 

[madison]

Well that is the wrong product madison. They already have a fireplace they dont need a zeroclearance fireplace just an insert

Thanks for the correction. I was not certain that it was not a prefab fireplace with gas logs.