Chimney breast
A chimney is typically a stone, block or brick structure consisting of a wall or walls enclosing one or more flues. A chimney breast is the part of the chimney structure that projects into or out of the building.
A flue is a passage that conveys the products of combustion from a combustion appliance to the outside air.
The front of the chimney breast is carried over and above a fireplace on a structure referred to as a chimney bar. A fireplace is a very simple combustion chamber, with or without front door, in which fuels are oxidised to obtain thermal energy, which is transferred into a space mainly by radiation.
In many older buildings fireplaces may have been removed, but the chimney breast may have been retained as they can form a significant part of the structure supporting the building. Where fireplaces have been removed, it is best practice to introduce ventilation at the bottom of the flue and to leave it open at the top (perhaps with a cowl to prevent rainwater penetration) to prevent the accumulation of moisture and potential deterioration of the structure. Unused flues may be filled with inert insulating material such as vermiculite that allows some continued movement of air for ventilation.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
ECA 2024 Apprentice of the Year Award
Entries open for submission until May 31.
UK gov apprenticeship funding from April 2024
Brief summary the policy paper updated in March.
For the World Autism Awareness Month of April.
70+ experts appointed to public sector fire safety framework
The Fire Safety (FS2) Framework from LHC Procurement.
Project and programme management codes of practice
CIOB publications for built environment professionals.
The ECA Industry Awards 2024 now open !
Recognising the best in the electrotechnical industry.
Sustainable development concepts decade by decade.
The regenerative structural engineer
A call for design that will repair the natural world.
Buildings that mimic the restorative aspects found in nature.
CIAT publishes Principal Designer Competency Framework
For those considering applying for registration as a PD.
BSRIA Building Reg's guidance: The second staircase
An overview focusing on aspects which most affect the building services industry.
Design codes and pattern books
Harmonious proportions and golden sections.
Introducing or next Guest Editor Arun Baybars
Practising architect and design panel review member.
Quick summary by size, shape, test, material, use or bonding..