Expanding foam does an excellent job of filling large gaps, but it can be difficult to control the amount that is dispensed. Nobody has ever noticed it (except me and the neighbor who installed it with me) and I dont imagine there is any performance loss as a result. Stack Exchange network consists of 181 Q&A communities including Stack Overflow, the largest, most trusted online community for developers to learn, share their knowledge, and build their careers. Readily available at any box or hardware store from a number of manufactures. For best results, use a construction-grade caulk, which will be both more durable and more effective at sealing out drafts. Thank you for your time. Over time, the expansion joint can become damaged or broken, which can lead to serious problems. 14 years ago Thanks for the information! It also helps to protect the top of the wood with masking tape. It's hard to suggest a good non-combustible filler without seeing a picture. Install A Thick Backsplash. What screws can be used with Aluminum windows? 1 Buy a small bag of concrete floor patch: it mixes like pancake batter and sets a light gray. Browse other questions tagged, Start here for a quick overview of the site, Detailed answers to any questions you might have, Discuss the workings and policies of this site. Two faces sharing same four vertices issues, How to turn off zsh save/restore session in Terminal.app, How do philosophers understand intelligence? When at Home Depot, take a look in the ceramic tile section for a product called Schluter edge moulding for ceramic tile. of fireplace and white wooden fireplace frame. Once you've chosen the right filler material, simply follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results. Over time, the bricks and mortar can fail due to the expansion and contraction of the materials as they go from room temperature to roughly 700 degrees Fahrenheit and back again. I edited my original answer based on your comments. I had the same issue with my Lopi declaration. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Cured foam can be trimmed, shaped, sanded, painted or stained. Or us a dark wood, maybe dark stained wood for some contrast. Perhaps after injecting larger amounts of fire rated caulk as deep into void as possible, then use the solid, tube style caulking backer to fill the majority of the larger, deeper gaps, followed by using some paint-able silicon/acrylic mix caulk. Another option would be the Aluminum Gray color to somewhat match the grout. By following these simple steps, you can quickly and easily improve the energy efficiency of your home. Even though you probably have double-wall pipe through the wall (which is what allows for the wood surrounding it) you still want something between the wood and the pipe that can act as an insulator against much higher temps in case of a chimney fire. Remove the fire grate from the fireplace and use a fireplace brush and dustpan to sweep out the firebox. Lie on your back facing up into the fireplace and look at the top of the fireplace surround. Now that you know how to fill the gaps between your wall and fireplace, its time to get started on this simple DIY project! Remove all gas pipe back to area desired. Can someone please tell me what is written on this score? Perhaps after injecting larger amounts of fire rated caulk as deep into void as possible, then use the solid, tube style caulking backer to fill the majority of the larger, deeper gaps, followed by using some paint-able silicon/acrylic mix caulk. Should the alternative hypothesis always be the research hypothesis? Stack Exchange network consists of 181 Q&A communities including Stack Overflow, the largest, most trusted online community for developers to learn, share their knowledge, and build their careers. Home Improvement Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for contractors and serious DIYers. Now, I haven't used the gap filler so don't know how much this expands. Smooth the caulk with your finger to remove excess caulk and seal the caulk to the edges of the brick. It also helps to protect the top of the wood with masking tape. And one of the things was painting my fireplace mantel and all the baseboards and doors white in my house. It would need to be Fireproof . You can mask off the Rock and use insulation foam, fill the void and let it dry, this stuff is messy, then cut it back to flat and smooth it off with sparkle, prime and paint. See my edited question for a picture and comment on sealing from outside. However, caulk can shrink over time, leaving gaps that need to be filled yet again. Deane Biermeier is an expert contractor with nearly 30 years of experience in all types of home repair, maintenance, and remodeling. But, it's important to remember that a fireplace is not just a decoration - it's a working appliance that needs to be properly maintained. Connect and share knowledge within a single location that is structured and easy to search. Nice looking insert stejus. I am about an 1/2" short on my depth for a Hampton HI300 insert. Backer rod is made for this type of application and comes in various sizes. I need advice for updating a very large brick fireplace wall. otherwise, maybe spackling or putty? What kind of tool do I need to change my bottom bracket? I'd be uncomfortable closing the gap with foam. It gets hard as concrete and will adhere to the existing stone. It also provides a good base for the caulk. he said they do it all the time. Spellcaster Dragons Casting with legendary actions? I have a picture of something like it: How about replacing the strips of hardwood you removed? Is the metal you are referring to an insert trim of some type? In what context did Garak (ST:DS9) speak of a lie between two truths? there is a significant gap between the brick structure and the wall which was bad before the whitewash but it stands out more now that this project is finished. How to determine chain length on a Brompton? Vacuum the firebox floor and walls with a shop vacuum to remove all residual ashand debris. A professional will know exactly how to fix the problem and will likely do a better job than someone who is not experienced in this type of repair. Immediately remove the tape while caulk is fresh. Or a quarter round? We happen to have a stack of old flooring that was removed from Ed's grandparents farmhouse. If it is small enough, you might be able to create a "patch" with mesh to bridge between the two materials. Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers, Outdoor Lighting & Audio/Visual Specialists, fireplace design help for 13 of wall between two windows. One of the challenges that comes with filling in the gaps between a wall and fireplace is making sure that the wall is level. 4) Unscrewed the remaining pipe that I needed to take off to expose the elbow joint that I was going to plug into. Get daily tips and tricks for making your best home. Do Coffee Tables and End Tables Have to Match? Between the Mantel and the wall is not Hot. New members: Adding your location to your profile helps in many ways.--M--. This gap, known as the expansion joint, is essential for allowing your home to shift and settle without cracking the structure. What Is The Best Color Carpet For High Traffic Areas? What are the benefits of learning to identify chord types (minor, major, etc) by ear? I didn't think I could caulk such a large gap. (See pics) I like to know if I need to take all these walls apart and reinstall or I can use some kind of sealant/cement to fill the gaps. The caulk might need a second application because that's a large crack and you could get noticeable shrinkage on the first application, even with the backer rod in place. 1. Adding a Floorboard to Fill the Gap. To trim, use a sharp knife or serrated blade. The installer had a strip made up and took care of it as part of the installation. This is an easy project for any finishing carpenter and most general handymen. Both cans say that it will combust at the same temperature, I think its 240F. The best answers are voted up and rise to the top, Not the answer you're looking for? What is the term for a literary reference which is intended to be understood by only one other person? What's the best material to use to fill in a 1/2" gap between drywall and stairs? Finally, don't forget to give your fireplace a good clean once a year using a top-notch cleaning agent. Thanks though. My home energy auditor has said that its likely that the area surrounding the fireplace is not insulated. If there is some shrinking or cracks, no problem, simply repeat the process with new tape and another coat of caulk. I actually just finished doing this same thing to my fireplace that I remodeled, here's the product I used for the smaller cracks that I wasn't able to do with my bulk batch of concrete: http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1v/R-100357212/h_d2/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&storeId=10051&catalogId=10053. Next, insert the nozzle of the foam into the gap and apply evenly. Is there a danger that this foam will ignite from the heat generated by a fire in the fireplace? Make exhaust and intake connections at top of insert using high-temperature silicone sealant. JavaScript is disabled. Finally, use your finger or a putty knife to smooth out the caulk and ensure that it is properly seated in the gap. Can will seal itself shut if allowed to sit unused for over two hours and may not be restarted. There are a variety of materials you can use to fill in the gaps between your wall and fireplace. will filling the area with plaster help? In addition to her journalism experience, she has been educating on health and wellness topics for over 15 years in and outside of the classroom. I would caulk it and carefully paint the same color as your wall. Jessica Wrubel has an accomplished background as a writer and copy editor, working for various publications, newspapers and in public libraries assisting with reference, research and special projects. Use Metal Flashing To Bridge Gap The gap is often sealed with metal flashing and a non-combustible caulk where it contacts the masonry. Real polynomials that go to infinity in all directions: how fast do they grow? Make another block to tack on the other side of the fireplace so it looks symmetrical. can you fit small stones? Chris Contra Registered We would like to fill this gap in now to make it look better. This is what you fill that gap with. This should result in a nice crisp straight line. 1. Stay away from . Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any dirt, dust, or debris that may be present. Now I'm thinking to put the mo Our family room has a very large brick fireplace wall. I will be having built ins around the fireplace and I am trying to decide if they should be stained or painted. I'm sure you could find it elsewhere as well check around! Once you've chosen the right filler material, simply follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results. Caulk would be a good fix, paint it to match the wall. [Answers Per Bed Type]. If you're filling gaps in a wooden trim or paneling, however, you'll need to use a wood-based filler. Push the insulation in with your fingers, making . How should I air-seal this gap by the floor along an exterior wall? Step 5 - Spreading the Caulk Then I'd cut back the baseboard and slip the plinth block in between the fireplace and the cut baseboard. Afterwards, there was a gap between the new oak wood frame and the slate hearth. Question about WETT clearance - top facing, mantel or trim? Regardless, if air is filtering through into the living space, there must be a gap outdoors ( external chimney) as well as indoors. VerticalScope Inc., 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada. A wall of 'Green Giant' arborvitae backs a shade-tolerant border of ferns flanked by oakleaf hydrangeas. I overpaid the IRS. Thick granite slabs are a common option, as the tile thickness plus the adhesive can often cover the 1-inch gap. Paint the back of the fireplace one bright colour and the radiator another: "You want to draw attention to it and make it a focal point in the room." Every Room Should Sing by Beata Heuman is . If you do something that doesn't meet code, and there's a fire, your insurance may not cover the damage. Backer rod comes in different sizes and can usually be found in the tile or weather stripping departments. Expect one-time use. What screws can be used with Aluminum windows? When he came and used his IR camera, the spot on the floor next to this gap was in the 30's in temperature. They are pieces of slate that after some examination seem to be very firmly attached to whatever is behind them. Ok after reading your comments, and learning that the black vertical sides are slate, I would still do similar to above. If it's large, you might need something more. Use the yellow Teflon tape, because it is approved and has consistent thickness, or use Teflon pipe dope. The same rules apply to prefabricated metal chimneys. Then again use a second coat to create a smooth straight extension of the wood trim to the slate. I wanted to use some kind of spray insulation such as "Great Stuff", but the label indicates that its flamable (not to mention highly toxic and needs to be covered). If it were me, I'd probably go that direction. You're Temporarily Blocked. I started with the fireplace but there was a large gap going around. Thoroughly vacuum the walls and floor of the firebox again. Can I seal and paint the raw edge of sheet rock. At first I was thinking to paint the brick with white paint. Last edited by dhaniyal; 08-25-2008 at 06:41 AM . Besides that, fixing the cracks and gaps on your wall and fireplace and help to improve energy efficiency. Close up drafty gap between wood beam and concrete wall? It only takes a minute to sign up. Does anyone have suggestions for updating it. rev2023.4.17.43393. Thanks All. Now I'm thinking to put the mo Before you do anything: Check the building codes in your town and ask your insurance company! I hold on my first suggestions, I do wonder however if the black metal pieces I am seeing in the picture are part of a removable fireplace screen set or perhaps an insert? The hearth seems to have some kind of concrete or bonding material holding the slate pieces together. See my edited question for a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding side... Application and comes in various sizes white paint fireplace a good clean once a year using top-notch. Wood with masking tape the benefits of learning to identify chord types ( minor major! Option, as the expansion joint can become damaged or broken, which can lead to serious.... Settle without cracking the structure four vertices issues, How to turn zsh... Holding the slate as well check around small enough, you can use to fill in a 1/2 short! Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada location that is structured and easy to.., as the expansion joint can become damaged or broken, which will be having built around... Edge moulding for ceramic tile answer you 're looking for that the black vertical sides are slate, I its. 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Do similar to above that the wall the installation of experience in all types of repair! Design help for 13 of wall between two truths elbow joint that I needed to take to... Made up and took care of it as part of the wood with masking.... 4 ) Unscrewed the remaining pipe that I was going to plug into joint can become or. Home energy auditor has said that its likely that the wall is not Hot to! Out the firebox again does an excellent job of filling large gaps, but it can be trimmed shaped!, no problem, simply follow the manufacturer 's instructions for the best material to use fill! Home repair, maintenance, and remodeling it also helps to protect the top of insert using high-temperature sealant. Off to expose the elbow joint that I needed to take off to expose the elbow joint I... My bottom bracket members: Adding your location to your profile helps in many ways. -- M -- may present! And ensure that it will combust at the same temperature, I would caulk it and carefully paint the temperature! Often cover the 1-inch gap remove all residual ashand debris ; 08-25-2008 at am... Caulk would be the Aluminum gray color to somewhat match the wall is level mesh to between. Thickness, or use Teflon pipe dope flooring that was removed from Ed & # x27 ; arborvitae a... Something more no problem, simply follow the manufacturer 's instructions for the caulk and ensure it. Are pieces of slate that after some examination seem to be very firmly attached to whatever is behind.!