Blog>Questions>Does the chimney breast need a vent?
Last updated: 23 November 2023
Does the chimney breast need a vent?
Have you recently had a chimney breast blocked up and plastered? If so, you may be wondering whether you need to install a vent. Let’s ask the experts for a professional opinion.
Have you recently had a chimney breast blocked up and plastered? If so, you may be wondering whether you need to install a vent. Let’s ask the experts for a professional opinion.
Do I need a vent in a blocked-up chimney breast?
The simple answer is yes. A blocked-up, unused chimney breast should be vented at both the top and the bottom.
Why does a chimney breast need a vent?
Installing a vent in a chimney breast ensures that constant airflow is created. Without proper ventilation, condensation can build up inside the chimney breast.
If left untreated, damp will start to form. In this scenario, extensive remedial work may be needed to rectify the problem, so it’s always best to provide proper ventilation where a chimney breast has been blocked up.
What is the best way to vent a chimney breast?
To vent the bottom of a chimney breast where the fireplace was located is a relatively easy task.
Simply drill some holes where the old fireplace was situated approximately 50cm to 1 metre from the floor. You can then cover these holes with a vent. There are many vents available and you can choose one that suits your interior décor.
If the chimney has also been blocked off at the top, you will also need to create an opening here. You can use a similar method as you used for the interior.
Drill some holes in the chimney stack and instead of a vent, attach a cowl to stop any birds or rodents accessing the opening.
Call in the experts
As this is a job that requires working from a height, you should always ensure that you follow health and safety precautions to avoid an accident.
If you are in any doubt, it’s always best to hire a professional. To find Checkatrade approved chimney specialists working in your area simply enter your postcode in the search box below.
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