Venting chimney

[dave26]

My c1900 house chimney has 2 flues, which were both not vented. I've now put a vent to one of the flues in the upstairs room which was a relatively easy job as the fireplace was simply covered with plasterboard.

What is the least destructive way of venting the other (adjacent) flue? Could I get away with simply drilling a few holes through the now vented flue to get some airflow between the two, or do I need to destroy the wall to vent the other flue properly by inserting an airbrick (pain to do as wall is plasterboarded and plastered)? Another easier alternative would seem to be just drilling holes through the plasterboard into the brick for the unvented flue, rather than removing all the plaster and making a big hole in the wall.

Either of my easier options likely to work? Any advice much appreciated.

 

[JohnD]

the unvented flue, does it serve a downstairs fireplace?

don't drill holes between flues

An airbrick would be good, but to protect your decorations:

Buy a plastic grill designed for going over an airbrick (if it is a hit-and-miss type, remove the back piece that can be used to block ventilation). If you are rich you can use a polished brass one. If you want to, you can paint the plastic with a single flowing coat of non-drip gloss to match your decoration.

Pencil round the grille on the wall

Drill two or three large holes, such that they will be covered by the grille when it is fixed.

hoover up.

 

[dave26]

Thanks John - no neither flue serves a purpose. Have now drilled some big holes and covered up with a vent...!