Tar or Damp in chimney breast

[Turbo]

Removing that mechanically with a grinder will create toxic dust that will get everywhere.

Scrape off any heavy or loose deposits, give it a coat of the correct zinisser primer/stain blocker and finish with emulsion.

 

[Robotstar5]

Best you don't mention calling her a 'Grinder'!

I was watching an American renovation programme and one of the presenters referred to herself as a "scrubber" after cleaning something up, she obviously didn't know the English slang meaning of the word

 

[Blobber]

Is it paint or the burnt residue from open fires?

 

[Puglet1]

ALL. Thank you for your support and comments above.
Reading through them leads me to the conclusion that I should leave it as it is.
I’ll mention the words Arsenic and poisonous chemicals to my wife - that will definitely be enough for her to agree with me.

 

[MattF]

I'll take a photo of mine, shortly. I've left that as it was, once it was opened back up, & I'm glad I have.

 

[Mark 5]

ALL. Thank you for your support and comments above.
Reading through them leads me to the conclusion that I should leave it as it is.
I’ll mention the words Arsenic and poisonous chemicals to my wife - that will definitely be enough for her to agree with me.

Good idea but tread careful, it might give your wife ideas.

 

[gaz1]

To be factual this could apply to paint and wallpaper in times past.

Arsenic was a popular ingredient in many processes and homes.

It's just I can't ever remember seeing a picture of those comfy in their fireside armchairs, warming their tootsies, and wearing a respirator.

you might be surprised but its not an old thing many people still burn in open fires with painted and stained wood the older end being the worst for it