Removal Of Cemented Feature Fireplace Hearth

boyler82

Hi all,

I have searched everywhere for help with this but can't find anyone with this issue -
Basically I have a feature fireplace I want to remove. It's an electric fire so no chimney or gas involved.
I was able to remove the surround and mantle piece myself and thought the hearth would just lift up off the floor. I even found a buyer for it! But then discovered that the hearth is cemented to the floor?
Is that normal practice and how on earth can I take it up?

Firstly is there a way to remove it in one piece or is it a case of sledge hammer or similar? And secondly how much would it cost roughly to have it removed and what kind of tradesman would I need?

I have a pic but as a new member I am not allow to post it...?

FreeBear

These things are quite often bedded down on a layer of mortar. Getting a hearth up usually entails driving a bolster chisel under and then levering up with a crowbar. Sometimes they come up without any damage, but no guarantees - It really depends on what the hearth is made of.


The last one I removed was tiled over a precast block of vermiculite & binder with a mesh reinforcement. It broke as soon as a hammer came close.

boyler82

Thank you for your reply, I forgot to mention its made out of marble (likely faux marble but not sure how to tell the difference) and is REALLY heavy!! Which is why I didn't realise it was stuck down - I thought it was just heavy! lol

How much would it be just to get rid do you think?

FreeBear

You might find your prospective buyer willing to attempt to lift and remove the hearth. If it does break on lifting, take down to your local council tip (they may charge a nominal fee for disposal).