Hearth Base Layer suggestions

[richy_d]

Hi all. Hoping you can answer a simple question based on my scenario. I'm in the process of renovating our living room and exposing the original inglonook fireplace that had been hidden behind a wall and small Victorian open fireplace for years. Since discovering the new fireplace, it's basically on dirt upon what the house is built on. This means I need to build up the base layer to have a level of lime screed then bricks for a base for the log burner. The property is old and suffers from damp so the walls have been replastered in lime to ensure breathability.

So I can allow the house to breath, I do not want to add concrete as the damp would just move along the sides and up the walls. What would your recommendation for building up the foundations for the hearth? is it as simple as digging out the base lower to form a layer of compacted stone, later of lime mortar then lime screed for strength? Once the floor is level with the remaining room, I will lay a bricks to form a base for the log burner.

Does this sound suitable, or should I consider other materials?

Thanks
Richard

 

[blades]

one thing with an open fireplace, they suck more heat out than they add to the living space. likely why it was closed off. if possible an insert stove would be better. even then including an outside combustion air source, you will still feel the cold air traveling to the fireplace or insert stove along the floor. apx -18 C ( thats 32F stateside) you really start feeling that draft along the floor.