Replacing fire surround.

[r896neo]

I want to replace my mantle/ fire surround. It's an open fire with the hearth and front tiled. The wooden surround i want to replace is like this

http://www.internetfiresdirect.co.u...90&code=d41d8cd98f00b204e9800998ecf8427e&pid=

I just want to remove the wooden part but how is it fixed? It is very stable when you try to rock it away from the wall just with your hand. Is there ties plastered in or something? It doesnt matter if i need to mangle it getting it out but i would prefer not to mangle the wall.

Any tips or info.

 

[denso13]

Yes, two ties normally. They come loose so can be anywhere on the surround but usually on the side near the top.
It might feel secure but shouldn't take much to prise it away from the wall.

 

[Robbie uk]

As above. They are usually thick wire loops about 8 inches down from the top if its an old tiled surround. The fixings can be quite big. They used to fatsen things in a big way yrs ago. Probably into wooden plugs. If you chip away the plaster around the mantle and side you will find them.