Removing substance that was used to build out once working, now decorative fireplace.. What is it?

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in Chimney and Fireplace 11 years and 6 months ago

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emilya70 | 12 years and 1 month ago

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http://cdn.brownstoner.com/5176d02bd5e59-.jpg

I wanted to tile out the interior of my very old (once working way back in the day, now decorative) fireplace. I was going to first template and install a wood surround on the interior so I will have a smooth surface to tile. However, once I examined the interior of the fireplace, it seems to have been filled in with a.. stone? substance? coal brick? I can’t figure out what this object is, and I am wondering if it is dangerous (asbestos). They are stacked in large blocks that look like cinder blocks but are too light to be. I was able to lift one up with a crowbar. Also, when I touch it a black substance like charcoal comes off onto my fingers. There has been a metal tray resting on top of these blocks to catch falling debris. Is it safe to remove these blocks to have a deeper fireplace? I would then seal off the top of the chimney so debris would no longer fall down into the fireplace. What is this block?? Thanks!

anotherposter | 12 years and 1 month ago

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I’m not sure what it is, but asbestos is mainly a problem when you disturb it.  Removing it safely can be pricey, but maybe it’s not so bad for such a small area.  You can hire someone to test it if you really want to take it out.  One of the reasons asbestos was used so much was its ability to withstand heat, so a fireplace isn’t an unexpected place to find it.  There are companies in NYC that specialize in fireplace maintenance so that might be a good resource.

slopemope | 12 years and 1 month ago

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i’d do a mail in test just to be safe.  if that is an exterior wall, i wouldn’t use plywood for tiling but cement board instead.

Bond | 12 years and 1 month ago

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Based on the pictures and what you are saying, it’s probably a lightweight block which is simply a concrete block made with an expanded aggregate (usually some type of volcanic stone). It could have asbestos in it, at one point they seemed to put it in just about everything.  If the blocks aren’t friable, or crumbling apart, it’s not a huge concern.  If you put plywood over it, and feel that you  may end up with moisture back there, you can always use an exterior grade (Just look for one with an “x” in the description, CDX, BCX, etc.) Or you could just use cement backer board.  Either one should be fine.  If I were buying something specifically for this, I’d probably use backer board. If I had a scrap of plywood around, I’d go with that.

needmtg | 12 years and 1 month ago

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Asbestos is not ‘dangerous,’ it’s toxic if you ingest or otherwise expose your body closely to it. Casual encounter, even when cleaning up, is not to be feared (but of course in our wacko world, it’s illegal.) In this case, I wouldn’t even think about testing and abatement since it’s being covered up.

mack68 | 12 years ago

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i’ve been learning alot about old fireplaces recently and this it looks like it’s an old coal burning fireplace, those blocks can most likely be removed and you will find brickwork behind it. it may contain asbestos or other hazardous or deteriorating materials/masonry. your best option would be to call a fireplace professional. i have used big apple chimney before with great results. i would suggest giving them a call. they advertise on this site. -mack68