- Thread starter Coles
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Toby Newell
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I consulted an expert fireplace restoration specialist who said that the best way to tell is that the ornate section directly above the fire was not fixed down in the original fireplaces. Later ones are cast from a single mould. I was disappointed to find that ours was fixed, but on closer inspection I discovered that it had been bolted closed!
I'd say that anything where the fireplace is sat on a hearth that is above floorboard height is unlikely to be original. If you were very optimistic, it might be an original and was removed and reinstalled. But, the classic timeline for these things is for them to be removed and the room carpeted over (in the 1960s say), then a replica installed as a stylistic addition in the 00s with a new overhearth as the old one was beaten half to cr*p with carpet grips or the owner had a naive long term desire to use it so needed a hearth that complied with modern regs.
Of course, if the hearth has been overlaid with the fireplace still sat on a floorboard level hearth beneath, jury's out.
Not by any means decisive but I'd lean tentatively to yay or nay on that basis.
Of course, if the hearth has been overlaid with the fireplace still sat on a floorboard level hearth beneath, jury's out.
Not by any means decisive but I'd lean tentatively to yay or nay on that basis.
The modern brick and concrete lintel I think I see probably tell us something: It's at least a new installation?
