Fireplace - help identifying material?

[Hobsini]

Hi, we are about to do some work on our fireplace but before we do I am trying to identify the material that's been used for the top/roof of the fireplace (around the flue). I have attached a picture in case anyone can tell us what this might be?

 

[noseall]

It could be anything from the trunk of a tree to a google image of the Southern plains of Lake Victoria.

You need to show a better perspective of the object from a distance. It looks like a flinty type aggregate often found in the south east.

 

[^woody^]

Looks like Ganymede.

But could be vermiculite or concrete

 

[Hobsini]

Ok, thanks. Have attached another picture which might make it easier to identify.

 

[Hobsini]

Any ideas?

 

[^woody^]

Have you punched it to see if it feels like concrete? Because it certainly looks like it.

 

[Hobsini]

No, not tried punching it but it will be being removed, probably by a large hammer, shortly. I assume from the comments that we shouldn't be concerned about that - based on the type of material it is?

 

[Nige F]

Looks like Ganymede.

Is that pre cast whereas Runnymede is poured in situ ? To assuage the OP's concern, there be no asbestos present.

 

[Grantx]

I think you'll find the concrete pretty extensive, going far beyond the small area you can see.

Have you tried knocking out upwards, so to speak? It's ten times harder than knocking out horizontally. You will need more than a small hammer.

 

[Hobsini]

Thanks Nige F. So, given your comment I assume it is ok to start knocking through this? No asbestos or anything else like that we should worry about?

 

[Hugh Jaleak]

No asbestos, but I'd be cautious thumping six bells out of it, you dont know what its holding up, and the condition of the surrounding area. May bring more down than you intended....