Thinking about using cultured stone behind a woodstove in a new house I’m doing. I realize the stuff isn’t combustible, but does it absorb heat, and if so, do you need to have an air space between the veneer backer and the actual wall surface? Can’t seem to get a definite answer from the dealers I’ve talked to. Anyone have any experience in this application
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I use half inch cement board (rough side out) instead of drywall and attach the stone to that.
Dogmeat, does the heat transfer through the stone & durock? My concern is that the heat is absorbed and transfered through to the wall studs, insulation etc. Do you need an air space between the wall and the durock?
While I don't claim to be an expert, and if you follow the mfg's instruction for distance from a non-combustionable wall, you should not have a problem and don't need the airspace. I believe that the cement board and cultured stone acts like a heat sink and distributes the heat over a large area.
Dogmeat, I'd tend to agree with your's & Brickie's posts, & that's why I figured I'd get some advice from someone who may have more experience with the product than myself. I'd hate to put it up and later realize I needed the air space. Appreciate your thoughts on it
The good thing about the "stone" is that it is made of lightweight concrete - lots of pumice - which does not conduct heat very well. Cultured Stone's documentation has information on lab testing related to its fire properties, but I'd make that your architect's call to be safe.