Self Build Stories

Here is your chance to tell us about your self-build stories

These can be nightmares or triumphs, and be related to renovations or complete re-builds

Just to kick things off...

I remember the first time I exposed an old bricked-up fireplace I was absolutely terrified! I had taken several bricks out of the chimney breast, but couldnt find the iron lintel anywhere! As more and more bricks came free, the more I worried that the chimney stack was going to fall in on me!

Being brave, I positioned my girlfriend at the back door, with instructions to run if I said the word, and proceeded to knock more bricks out!! :-)

Fortunately my personal terror disolved when I eventually found the offending article buried several inches into the mortar. It was a really scary situation, especially as I had never done anything remotely structural before.

Now, this seems so insignificant, but back then it was horrific! :-)