I have installed a fireplace insert into a new home which I am building myself. The installation has been inspected and is currently in use. Inside the house, the fireplace insert and stainless steel chimney are encased in a framed 2×6 chase which is still uncovered. This type of installation is commonly covered in sheetrock, but I want to cover it in stone. I am aware of the light-weight manufactured stone that is available, but I want real rock.
I will be using local basalt, varying in size from small boulders at the base to a facing employing smaller stones varying from 6 to 12 inches in thickness. Yes, there is a massive footing underneath this thing, and I will also be building a steel frame which will be bolted to the framing that incorporates a beam (hidden by a wooden mantle) going across just above the top of the insert, so that if the insert ever needs to be replaced only the rock inside the steel frame will need to be removed.
What is the best way to secure the stone to the framing? <!—-><!—-><!—->
I was thinking of sheathing the framing with 3/4″ CDX plywood and then screwing masonry ties to the plywood, which would then be embedded in the grout.<!—-><!—->
Is this adequate? Should I use two layers of 3/4″ plywood? Any better ideas?
Thank you!
Replies
One sheet of 3/4 ply should be plenty; I've often seen 1/2" OSB doing the same job. Then 15-lb. felt, then your masonry ties, as you were thinking. Probably other methods; I'm not a mason, but this is what I see being done job after job.
Bruce
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I did a job last summer and did it thiw way -- plywood, 30 lb felt; wire lath; and then liberal use of wall ties nailed on. As yours is interior, you should not need bottom flashing and weep holes.
Thanks to Bruce and Dudley for responding. I wasn't certain exactly how to proceed but will move ahead now with 3/4" plywood, 30# felt, lathe and masonry ties.
Paul
%The wire lathe and ties will deal with the rick OK since you have a foundation.
But there is something wrong here with probably the terminology. There is no way you have a passed inspection with an insert sitting in framing . I suspect what you have is a "zero-clearance" metal fireplace box and flue. A fireplace insert has to have an existing fireplace first
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Yes, you are correct. I checked the literature and it is referred to as a "fireplace" and not a "fireplace insert".
Here's the web site for anyone who's interested:
http://www.regency-fire.com/Wood/Fireplace/Z2510/index.php
I chose this fireplace because at the time I installed it, it was the only unit I could find that was approved for operation in a negative pressure environment. I have a very tight house which necessitates heat recovery ventilation and didn't want carbon monoxide leaking into the house from the fireplace. It takes combustion air from the outside. Photo of my installation is attached.
Thanks again for everyone's help.
Paul
NiceTo be honest with you, given the foundation you have, i'd find it easier to build that entire chase/chimney with 4" block and the stone face than to atach stone to framing
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