Fireplace/stonework question

[gunsmithgirl]

Hello all,

We live in a house that at one time was used as a rental. Local zoning prohibits rentals here from having fireplaces in them. Our living room originally had a stonework fireplace in it. Then to rent it the previous owner just sealed it up with matching stonework.We are trying to fix the place up to sell it. I would like to turn this back into a functional fireplace.As it sits now it is just a big solid chunk of stonework and most people kinda cringe at it and comment on how nice it would be to have a fireplace there.

Does anyone know if it is possible to bring this back, if so how should I go about it? The chimney is still functional & in good shape.I am not sure of the best way to go about tearing out stonework.

Thanks!

[haypoint]

There should be mortar seams where the opening was? How about a picture? Just chip out the mortar and pull the stonework out. Is it real stone or look-alike stones? More info please.

[Jim S.]

I agree with haypoint, and I'd do the work with a special eye to opening it up for a fireplace insert of the type that sort of projects into the room and has fans to move the warm air. If necessary, you can also line the mortar chimney with a flue. This will add to the value of the place, because it provides an enclosed place for the fire and also a more energy efficient heat source.