Out With the Cold, In With the Wood Burner
A full fireplace transformation in Wiltshire complicated by a hidden back boiler, resolved seamlessly by Humphrey & Crockett’s in-house team.
Project details
Location
Salisbury, Wiltshire
Products used
Transforming a dated fireplace into a modern focal point
Our client had recently acquired a property in Wiltshire featuring a tired, old-fashioned back-boiler fed from the hot water system set within a heavily plastered chimney breast. The goal was straightforward: strip it back, open up the original fireplace and fit a contemporary wood burning stove. Bringing warmth, character and efficiency back to the heart of the living room.
A hidden back boiler changes the plan
Once our team began opening up the chimney breast, it quickly became clear this wasn’t a straightforward removal. Concealed behind the original fireplace surround was a back boiler still connected to the property’s central heating system. Working around live plumbing without the proper expertise would have brought the job to a standstill on most sites.
Because Humphrey & Crockett operate with qualified plumbers in-house, we were able to arrange an immediate callout to safely disconnect and decommission the back boiler. No waiting on a third-party contractor. No delay to the client. The project stayed firmly on track.
Back boiler discovered mid-strip: The existing back boiler was still plumbed in and operational, requiring safe disconnection before any further work on the fireplace opening could take place. This is a common hidden complication in older UK properties, particularly those built between the 1960s and 1980s, and one that can cause costly delays if the right trades aren’t on hand.
From strip-out to first fire, step-by-step
1. Initial assessment & strip-out
The old gas fire and surround were carefully removed, exposing the plastered chimney breast and revealing the full extent of the original brickwork beneath decades of render and wallpaper.
2. Back boiler discovery & safe disconnection
Our team identified the back boiler early in the strip-out phase. An in-house plumber was dispatched promptly to decommission it safely, keeping the project moving without any downtime.
3. Chimney breast opening & lining
The fireplace opening was widened and prepared to accept the new stove. A flue liner was installed to ensure a safe and efficient draw, with a steel collar fitted at the top of the opening.
4. Hearth installation
A sleek black slate hearth was laid providing both a code-compliant non-combustible base and a bold, contemporary aesthetic that would complement the chosen stove perfectly.
5. Render & plaster surround
The chimney breast surround was rendered and finished in a smooth plaster coat, creating clean, sharp reveals and a refined recess ready to frame the new appliance.
6. Wood burner installation
The wood burning stove was fitted into the prepared recess, connected to the flue liner, and commissioned including a first-light test to confirm safe operation and a clean draw through the chimney.
A stunning, efficient focal point delivered on time
What began as a tired, plastered-over fireplace is now a standout feature in the living room. A generously proportioned recess housing a sleek modern wood burner atop a polished black slate hearth. The clean plaster surround gives the installation a crisp, contemporary finish that works equally well in period and modern interiors.
After being recommended Crockett & Humphrey by family for a new wood burner, chimney lining, and chimney pots, I couldn’t be happier with the results. The service was exceptional from start to finish; Kyle even visited the property to provide a quote before I had officially completed on the house. Kyle is incredibly knowledgeable and went above and beyond by coordinating with a local roofer to resolve a few other issues. The installation team was punctual, friendly, and left my home spotless. They were a pleasure to have in my home, I truly couldn’t have asked for better service!
Mr Williams
Salisbury, Wiltshire
The benefit of a fully in-house team
Installing a wood burning stove in an older UK property often uncovers surprises redundant gas appliances, outdated flue configurations, or as in this case, a back boiler still connected to the heating system. When those surprises hit, most installation companies grind to a halt waiting for specialist trades. Because Humphrey & Crockett employ qualified plumbers, gas engineers, and installation specialists under one roof, we resolve complications on the day, keeping projects on schedule and clients informed every step of the way.