We're thinking of removing the chimney breast from a downstairs room? Found
out lots about proper support for the remains of the stack through upstairs
to the roof etc., but nothing about what to do with the bottom of the
exposed end of the flue.

If we just blocked the bottom would that lead to a build up of rainwater
casuing possible leakage later?

Should we cap both ends?

All thoughts appreciated

Roger

In article ,
"Roger" writes:
We're thinking of removing the chimney breast from a downstairs room? Found
out lots about proper support for the remains of the stack through upstairs
to the roof etc., but nothing about what to do with the bottom of the
exposed end of the flue.

If we just blocked the bottom would that lead to a build up of rainwater
casuing possible leakage later?

Should we cap both ends?

Both ends need to remain ventilated. If it's on an outside wall,
use an airbrick into the bottom from the outside and seal from
the inside of the house, so it doesn't steal heat from you.
If you cap off at the top, again, you must provide ventilation
there. Ventilation is much more important than keeping out the
rain, so you could leave the top alone.

--
Andrew Gabriel
[email address is not usable -- followup in the newsgroup]