What to do now? (Heatform removal)

[Powerlinefixer]

Hey All-

I could really use some advice on how to proceed with my project. My intent is to remove the heatform fireplace and install a wood stove using alcove clearances.

I have removed the upper vents, what was left of the heatform, and the masonry smoke shelf. I didn't remove the lintel or the mantel. The upper part of the heatform was completely rusted away. The condition of the masonry seems to be pretty good. I'll need to a little repointing.

I was expecting to find lots of brick around the firebox so I could remove the taper of the firebox, increasing side clearance for the stove. Instead of brick, I found one layer of 4x7.5x14.5 concrete blocks with an air void on the other side. The blocks appear to be structural so I'm not messing with anything else until I get some advice from people that are more knowledgeable about this stuff.

Is there a way to remove these blocks to remove the firebox taper and make the opening square?

Should I go with an insert or smaller stove? We already have a stove.

I have attached some pictures and a hastily made drawing. The chimney is not built of solid brick. It's about 10' tall. Two opposing sides of the flue are brick, the other sides are the concrete block.

Thanks a ton!

-Powerlinefixer

 

[begreen]

Why was the heatform removed when an insert could have been put in it? It was rusty, but now things get more complicated.

 

[Powerlinefixer]

Why was the heatform removed when an insert could have been put in it? It was rusty, but now things get more complicated.

The heatform was more than just rusty. It was literally falling out of the chimney. I found that rodents had gotten into it as well. Lots of combustible stuff all around.

I'm prepared for complicated.

 

[bholler]

The heatform was more than just rusty. It was literally falling out of the chimney. I found that rodents had gotten into it as well. Lots of combustible stuff all around.

I'm prepared for complicated.

You made things way more complicated than they needed to be. And no I don't think you can remove those block. You now just have to start rebuilding masonry

 

[xterra]

Having been through this myself, i'd settle on an insert instead of an alcove setup. I had a mason inspect what was remaining and to rebuild the firebox to what would look like a fireplace again, then installed an insert with liner.

 

[Powerlinefixer]

So a friend brought to my attention seismic issues with masonry chimneys. We've decided to take the chimney down and go back with factory built stuff. It just seems safer all the way around.

 

[begreen]

It's a reasonable concern. The last earthquake rotated the top of our chimney 45º. The only reason it didn't topple was the rigid liner inside and some strong silicone on the top cap. My nextdoor neighbor's chimney fell down.