How to block this brick chimney and renovate?

[Fatsquare]

 

 Hi, any one.

My house is relatively old, and the living room has a brick fireplace that burns wood. The ceiling above the fireplace is quite high, and the walls are also made of brick. I haven’t used the fireplace much. Now, I’m planning to seal it off and, if possible, install an electric decorative fireplace in its place. However, I’ve been struggling with a few concerns for a long time:

1. Once the fireplace is sealed from the top and bottom, if the interior isn’t filled, how can I prevent moisture buildup inside, which might cause the brick walls to develop mold? Since trapped moisture would be difficult to dissipate after sealing, what’s the best solution?

2. The area in front of the fireplace has a brick step, and I want to decorate it with natural stone (such as marble) to create a cleaner look. However, I’m worried that light-colored marble might strongly contrast with the yellowish brick walls. Since the brick wall is about 5 meters (two stories) high, making changes to it as a DIY project would be difficult. Do you have any good suggestions? For example, should I extend the marble finish up to the fireplace height?

[MitchellMc]

Hi @Fatsquare,

Sealing off a chimney is a common occurrence. Provided the top is sealed adequately so no moisture can enter it, moisture isn't likely to build up within it.

You're right in assuming that adding marble to the base will create a contrast between it and the bricks. The two materials are not particularly compatible aesthetic-wise. You would need to consider painting the brick or adding panelling that would complement the marble. Take a look at these projects for inspiration: Fireplace and feature wall by @craftyhopper and Floating hearth fireplace and timber feature wall by @Nailbag. You can see that interesting elements on the wall have offset the sleek and somewhat stark tiling.

The high wall poses some limitations, but it also allows for a very impressive feature wall. If you are not confident about working at heights, you might like to employ the services of a professional to assist you.

I'd recommend taking images directly in front of the fireplace, capturing its full height if possible. You can then use those images to superimpose some design elements over them.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[Nailbag]

Hi @Fatsquare 

That project of mine that @MitchellMc linked you to is basically exactly the same starting situation as mine was, albeit yours is much taller. I also agree with him not to be concerned with internal chimney moisture once it's all sealed up, especially being double brick. Sealing old chimneys up is a very common thing to do.

Reach out if you have any specific questions.

Nailbag