Project Overview
This Reigate project brought together three connected alterations: removal of an external chimney stack, removal of the remaining internal chimney breast and opening up a load-bearing wall. The aim was to clear redundant structure and create a more open, workable ground-floor layout.
The Brief
The client wanted one contractor to handle the external and internal structural work as a single package, including the engineer’s details, temporary support, Building Control inspections, weatherproofing, making good and plastering.
The Challenge
The stack and internal elements were linked, so the order of demolition and support was critical. External work also had to be kept weather-tight, while the new opening in the load-bearing wall needed to be formed without damaging the surrounding finishes unnecessarily.
Our Solution
We followed the structural sequence agreed with the engineer, dismantled the external stack safely and made the roof area weather-tight. Inside, we removed the chimney breast and formed the load-bearing wall opening with the specified permanent support. The disturbed masonry, ceiling and wall areas were then closed, repaired and skimmed.
The Outcome
The finished layout feels considerably more open and practical, with the redundant chimney structure removed both inside and outside. The roof and internal finishes were made good, Building Control completed its inspections, and the completion certificate was issued.
