Fireplace project

[MFDOOM138]

Hi folks,

I've recently removed a gas fire with the plans to put in its place a log burner.

I want to tile the surrounding internal space but in order to do so presumably need to render the internal space first? I understand, from other forums, plasterboard, whether heat resistant or not, isn't an ideal solution for the job. Is render the best way to go? Can this then be tiled on top of? What is the best procedure?

Picture attached to show space.

Thanks

 

[FiremanT]

Hi folks,

I've recently removed a gas fire with the plans to put in its place a log burner.

I want to tile the surrounding internal space but in order to do so presumably need to render the internal space first? I understand, from other forums, plasterboard, whether heat resistant or not, isn't an ideal solution for the job. Is render the best way to go? Can this then be tiled on top of? What is the best procedure?

Picture attached to show space.

Thanks

Are you planning to keep that marble?

 

[MFDOOM138]

Yeah that is staying.

 

[FiremanT]

Yeah that is staying.

Okay. That marble (or limestone, can’t see) is prepared for a gas fire. Marble for solid fuel should be prepared for the massive increase in temperatures to which it is exposed. The hearth is made of , typically, 3 sections and jointed to cope with expansion. The underside of yours is almost certainly hollow - for SF it is filled with Fondue Cement with strengthening rods or grids.
If the stove is sitting inside the chamber, it is not impossible that you will get away with it, but be mentally prepared for damage. If the stove is sitting on the hearth, you have little chance of avoiding an issue at some point.

 

[MFDOOM138]

Thanks a lot, this isn't something I had considered as even being a concern. The log burner does fit fully inside the chamber but I don't want to damage the surround. The hearth is hollow, you can tell from the sound of knocking on it.

 

[ree]

OP,
Are the existing dimensions of the opening in line with the burner Mfr's installation dimensions?

 

[MFDOOM138]

Yes they are.

 

[FiremanT]

Thanks a lot, this isn't something I had considered as even being a concern. The log burner does fit fully inside the chamber but I don't want to damage the surround. The hearth is hollow, you can tell from the sound of knocking on it.

Assuming you don’t want to replace the surround: Make sure the back panel is fully insulated from the heat from the stove. Check any exposed marble, especially between the top of the marble opening to the brickwork above. Clad this with insulation material.
The hearth: not much you can do, (apart from removing, cutting and jointing/filling with FC. ) but as the stove is in the chamber, you may well get away with it.

I would not fit it that way, but it is existing so you may wish to risk it. The marble will my explode, just crack. The potential is for work after you thought all completed.

Not trying to be an AH - just something for you to think about

 

[MFDOOM138]

Appreciate comments, the heat aspect reacting to the marble wasn't something I had considered. I had only thought of what best to do with the brick work in the fireplace. Thanks for your comments.

 

[MFDOOM138]

I'm going to consider whether log burner is the best option, i may just leave the area empty. Can the internal brickwork in the fireplace be rendered and tiled? I had intended to block the chimney up, but add a vent to allow air flow. Chimney pots are capped, the ones with vented holes, so that should cover any condensation issues.

 

[FiremanT]

If you mean to block of the front off the opening, it is good practice to allow for airflow.
What is on the other side of the wall? If it is external, you could vent it from outside, avoiding an ugly and potentially draughty vent in your lounge

 

[MFDOOM138]

Other side of wall is adjoining house, so no chance of venting there. Would it be a viable option to board up within the chimney breast, up out of sight of the opening?

 

[FiremanT]

Yes, it would

 

[MFDOOM138]

Would a chimney balloon be needed too or is that overkill?

 

[FiremanT]

No, not required. A balloon would prevent the intended consequence of a vent. Unless you could get the vent above the balloon.
In any event a balloon is a temporary device. It allows one to stop a chimney draught, while keeping the appliance commissioned but temporarily unused. They, presumably, would de-inflate eventually.