Hello,
I’m installing a new gas fireplace (regular direct-vent, 20,000 btu) fireplace and I had a question about installing the fireplace surround. I’ve framed everything in according to manufacturer’s specs, etc. and now I’m ready to do the surround. I’ve chosen a “stacked slate” product, which is just small strips of slate attached together by the manufacturer which makes installation fairly easy.
I have a couple questions: 1) should I use durock, or plywood underneath this product (fireplace doesn’t state anything about using combustibles underneath the surround as long as areas close to the fireplace have non-combustibles on top) and 2) what “glue” would be recommended for this applicationl, in particular if either durock or plywood is chosen for the underside?
The stacked slate isn’t overly heavy (doesn’t require any footings, extra framing, etc.) to support the weight. The area is about 6 ft wide x 10 feet tall.
I was considering building a mantel and wasn’t sure what the best way to install a maple mantel for this application. I was going to follow the fireplace specs for clearance, but I wasn’t sure how to install the mantel “into” this stacked slate product. Any suggestions for this would also be helpful. There will only be things like picture frames, etc. sitting on the mantel so not much weight.
Thanks again for your help!
Replies
The fireplace may not prohibit plywood, but our code does ( and your code probably does too). Use durock or other non-combustible backing.
I wouldn't use glue, but rather thinset mortar. Whether you need metal lath behind it will depend on the thickness of the slate you are using - that is whether it is thick enough that it is being stacked like bricks or hung like tiles.
It will be a lot easier to install the mantel first and the slate can the butt up to it, rather than trying to install the mantel onto the slate.
Good luck. Sounds nice!