Using Durock For Fireplace Surround

An old fireplace can be an eyesore.

Using durock for fireplace surround.

It is a modern looking firepace and the intent was to have it installed in a painted wall without tile surround. Before the tile can be placed cement board must be installed. It is very durable and works for exterior or interior applications. Ie the appearance of drywall no tile or other surrond material.

The job in question was to install a gas fireplace in a new wall. But on the metal surround use high heat adhesive to attach the cement boards. Add cement board to the entire area you ll be tiling for us that means the floor and all 4 sides of the fireplace leaving room for wood mantle. Use a rasp to smooth any rough edges.

The fireplace manual should specify how far around it you need fire resistent typically cement board or steel board typically it is only for the top. However there is a key difference between around and on your fireplace footing is made from masonry material that needs to remain in place. I would use durock a concrete board product of usg united states gypsum company. Homes with outdated brick fireplaces can be brought up to date with a new tile fireplace surround.

I d use at least a foot of cement board to be safe if you can t find the spec. Fireplace surround plywood or durock cement board. While you can nail the material to the wood frame it s best to use screws since they hold a grip longer over the years for vertical installations such as up the face of the hearth. You can use hardiebacker board around your fireplace.

One way to use durock is to encase a wooden frame built as the skeleton of the hearth. Using a straightedge score panel face with utility knife and cut through glass fiber reinforcing mesh then snap and cut backside mesh to break cleanly. We had a plan of attack. The wall is 2x4 framed with steel studs immediately around the fireplace per its installation spec.

Here is the installation guide and more information on their 10 year warranty for exterior installations. Outdated brick fireplaces can be updated with cement board and tile. It cannot be replaced and should not be covered up with more flammable materials. The material mounts directly to the wooden framing with 1 1 2 inch wood screws.