Chimney removal using Gallows Brackets
One way to safely remove a chimney breast from a property is by using gallows brackets.
Load bearing gallows brackets are ideal for supporting a chimney stack in the loft. For example, when you’re removing the chimney breast from the ground floor and first floor.
Chimney breast removal is something we have to do on a regular basis here at HYPE Building. Particularly in HMO conversions where floor space is crucial.
What is a Gallows Bracket and how does it work?
A gallows bracket is a right-angled triangular bracket, rather like a shelf bracket.
Two gallows brackets and a metal plate support the chimney stack. A bracket sits either side of the stack with the top of each bracket being the exact depth of the stack.
A metal plate bridges the two brackets and sits directly beneath the bricks it is supporting.
Key moments from the video
0:23 – Before removing a chimney using gallows brackets, a structural engineer will need to assess the weight of the load that the brackets will support.
2:41 – The gallows bracket itself looks like a shelf bracket. It’s depth is identical to the depth of the chimney you’re removing.
3:54 – A Structural Engineer will design the gallows brackets. This ensures they are the correct size and thickness to support the remaining chimney stack. Building Control will then need to sign off the work. They will ask to see the drawings from the Structural Engineer. Thus, giving the reassurance that the work is correct and safe.
5:03 – You’ll need a Party Wall Notice. Because it’s essential to inform your neighbour that you’re removing your chimney breast.
5:58 – John describes how removing the chimney breast impacts on the structural integrity of the party wall.
7:11 – It’s important to fill any gaps in the mortar to prevent the potential release of harmful gases from next door.
“I was in the process of purchasing an investment property. There were several structural issues with the property including wall tie failure. I required an experienced person to advise on the best solution to move forward. John was able to advise not only from a structural/building point of view but also from an investment perspective.”
Moghees Mir – Property Investor
“I was in the process of purchasing an investment property. There were several structural issues with the property including wall tie failure. I required an experienced person to advise on the best solution to move forward. John was able to advise not only from a structural/building point of view but also from an investment perspective.”
Moghees Mir – Property Investor
Gallows Brackets or Steel?
At this particular property – a HMO conversion – we used gallows brackets.
That’s because the chimney breast has been removed on both floors of the property. And only the remaining chimney stack in the loft requires support.
If the chimney breast is being removed on the downstairs floor only, a steel would be a better option. Because the remaining weight requiring support is much greater.
So, in a nutshell, gallows brackets are suitable when a smaller weight is being supported.
However, there is a caveat.
As John alludes to in the video, a lot depends on whether your neighbour has already removed their chimney.
If they have, making any structural alterations your side may place the party wall under too much strain.
Hence the reason you need the opinion of a Structural Engineer. They will tell you the correct approach to take.
