I am planning on installing a log burner in this recently opened fireplace. Whilst renovating the room i am internally insulating the external walls. I had not planned to insulate the front of the chimney breast as the fireplace is going to be used.
As a result the insulation will run along the rebates to each side of the breast and the breast reveals. I will then overboard them. In the room above where the fireplace is closed, i have boarded the front in 12.5mm plasterboard but have read that plasterboard should not be used near fireplaces due to the heat produced locally. Should i line the front using CP board / hardie backer or the like mechanically fixed? After this, is standard skim over the top acceptable or do i need to use something specific to prevent cracking with the heat.
As a result the insulation will run along the rebates to each side of the breast and the breast reveals. I will then overboard them. In the room above where the fireplace is closed, i have boarded the front in 12.5mm plasterboard but have read that plasterboard should not be used near fireplaces due to the heat produced locally. Should i line the front using CP board / hardie backer or the like mechanically fixed? After this, is standard skim over the top acceptable or do i need to use something specific to prevent cracking with the heat.