HomeMy WebLinkAbout2004-09-23 Bldg Official Ltr to Contractor Re Woodburning Fireplace CITY GeY OAK PARK HEIGHTS
14168 Oak Park Boulevard No. • P.O.Box 2007 • Oak Park Heights,MN 55082-2007 • Phone:651/439-4439 • Fax:651/439-0574
September 23,2004
Mr. Rodney Bahr
Bahr Construction LLC
11550 Stillwater Blvd., Ste. 100
Lake Elmo,MN 55042
Re: Wood Burning Fireplace @ 15431 58th St.N.
Dear Mr. Bahr:
I have met with your project superintendent,Joel at the above-reference address to
investigate the condition of the existing wood burning fireplace within the home.
There is visible charring on wooden floor members,indicating that at some time in the
past the fireplace had failed to contain the flames and resulted in structural damage to
the dwelling. These members will need further investigation as to their structural
integrity and must also be sealed to prevent smoke odor from the dwelling.
My findings,after this investigation is that the unit is not compliant to current code
standards and is not safe for use. The unit shall be removed and if a fireplace is desired
within the home,the new unit must comply with current code standards. A gas
fireplace insert may be installed into the existing firebox,pending proper structural
support for the hearth above.
Additionally,the concrete block wall adjacent to the fireplace,serving as the fire
separation between the house and the garage is damaged beyond the scope of
adequately serving as the fire separation. It must either be removed or repaired with a
repair design prepared and certified by a structural engineer. Any repair design shall be
submitted to this office for approval.
If you have any questions,please give me a call.
Sinc y,
r/yn .#40-‘-
Jim Butler,CBO
Oak Park Heights
Tree City U.S.A.