Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 6/30/2009

Question
Hi Bruce.  I have a large brick fireplace that is in the center of my house.  It
measures 11 feet x 5 feet and can be seen in the kitchen, family room, and
dining room.  Yes, it adds some character to the house but takes up much
needed space in our 1500 square foot house.  We are putting together a
modest remodeling plan that we will have to do in stages and wondering if it
is a good idea to remove the structure.  Would appreciate any thoughts on
the process, time, and expense of removing it and if it is recommended.  
Thank you.

Answer
Hi Kim, it is not an impossible project.  A couple of energetic people with a chipping hammer and sledge hammers can probably bring this behemoth down to rubble in three or four hard days.  Preferably you can get a dumpster located close to the edge of the roof so you can throw the bricks into it as you take the chimney down.  Once you get the chimney down below the living room ceiling you need to repair the roof structure, fill it in and get it roofed as soon as possible.  
As far as whether or not it is a good idea?  If you plan on living there for at least another five years then I'd say, if you want to do it go ahead.  If you plan on selling the home in the near future then I wouldn't have it taken out.  A fireplace in good condition is more often than not a good selling feature.
Costwise for removing the structure?  A 20 yard dumpster will cost a couple hundred bucks up to 350 dollars when they haul off the debris.  Labor?  If you do it yourself, nothing.  If you hire someone to do it?  Probably a thousand bucks or more depending on who you use and where you live.  Don't forget that you will have to stitch in new flooring  and possibly pour a small section of concrete to fill in the old ash box.  I hope this information helps, feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com