If you are using Portland cement to repair or rebuild a firebox (the part of the fireplace where you start your fires), it is important to know that Portland cement is not fire resistant. Is white Cement heat resistant? There is currently no British Standard for the fixing of stone fireplace surrounds. The fixing of stonework is covered by BS 8298 “Code of Practice for Design and Installation of Natural Stone Cladding and Lining”, and BS 5628 “Code of Practice for use of Masonry – Part 3: Materials and Components, Design and Workmanship”. While these may provide some useful guidance they are not specific to the installation of stone fireplace surrounds. If you’re using them for a wood/log burner the rapid set adhesive is fine for all applications, however you need the fire cement instead of the normal mortar for the joints. Note we advise you leaved a 1-2inch gap around the log burner, it needs space for air to circulate and the burner to expaned etc. No matter what type you choose, however, always be sure that you’re selecting the right grade (or density) based on the application: ASTM C270 indicates grades specifically intended for above-grade use while ASTM C1714 covers those recommended only up to four stories below grade level structures. All in all, each variation offers something different depending on your specific needs – so research carefully before investing in any particular product! Steps for Selecting the Most Suitable Mortar for Your Fireplace Apart from this, professionals also recommend cleaning all surfaces from dust, grease, oils, and other contaminant substances. You should take a step further and wet all the surfaces before applying the fire putty. How Long for Fire Cement to Dry?

Most furnace cements are available in a ready-to use form, which means they can be used immediately after application and setting of the cement. All types of natural and artificial stones including limestone, sandstone, marble, granite and slate. If you uncover an old fireplace hearth it is worth saving it —particularly as it may well compliment the original fireplace. Stone Federation Great Britain provides a one stop shop for product information, technical guidance and advice on all aspects of specifying and working with stone.When choosing the best fire cement for your needs, it is important to consider the following factors:

It may be helpful to plan the tile placement by creating a “story pole.” To make a story pole, first lay out the tile with spacers in between each tile on a flat surface, which will represent your tiled wall (left to right = bottom to top). Then mark all tile and grout joint measurements on a long wooden dowel rod. Include decorative inserts and accent tile. Transfer the markings onto the wall surface and review the placement. As part of the renovation of this 18th century cottage, the owners carefully uncovered and restored the original Bath stone fireplace — it is now their favourite feature. (Image credit: Marptree and Stuart Cox) 3) Will chimney repairs be necessary? You should however use an oven vent or heat gun over the cement for 60 minutes after application if it is going to be subjected to temperatures of over 500 degrees F. The best way to avoid any potential accidents is to read and follow all of the manufacturer’s instructions that come with the product. Also be sure to have a fire extinguisher nearby in case of an emergency.

Safety Tips

It is a common design rule that fireplaces should be the focal point any living room, common room and kitchen (if you live in the country). A fire place is a key area to dress and customise from season to season. If you were to ask most designers, it would be a pretty safe bet that they are going to work very hard to make sure that the fireplace creates a statement and draws your attention. Slag: This is a glassy material that is created when metal ore is smelted at high temperatures. It helps to improve the workability of concrete and it also makes it more resistant to heat. Clean the area where you will be installing the furnace cement. Make sure there is no dirt, dust, or debris. Type S mortar is stronger than type N, but it also costs more. If you are looking for the best quality mortar, then type S is the way to go. However, if you are on a budget, type N will still do the job. Just make sure that you don’t use too much of it! For outdoor applications Vitcas Heatproof Screed and Outdoor Oven Cement are suitable alternatives which will withstand the weather. Application:

The mantel shelf, as with all other components of the fireplace surround, must be adequately restrained. Special care must be taken with mantels which have a heavily moulded overhang as they are especially susceptible to tipping if leant on or hung on by a child. Mechanical fixings must be used that prevent the stone from tipping. Pointing of the joints can be done using the same mortar as used for bedding or with a suitable grout. Care should be taken to avoid smearing the face of the stone. Pre-cut all tiles, with the exception of the bottom row (first row) of tile on the left and right walls surrounding the fireplace. Building upward, continue to gently place the sheets in position in the area below the mantle and on the left and right walls.Next, holding the grout float at a 45-degree angle, force grout into the joints to completely fill the joints with no voids.

If you are looking for a high-quality furnace cement, then you should consider using one of these products: Fire putty is also widely used for sealing against the escape of smoke and flue gases in residential and commercial appliances, such as stoves, chimneys, and central heating systems. How to Use Fire Cement on Flue Pipe? Paint stripper can also be applied to a cast iron grate or fire basket, which can then be polished using a graphite paste," they continue. When choosing the best furnace cement for your application, consider the type of cement, the temperature rating, and the price. By considering these factors, you can choose the right furnace cement for your needs.

Next Steps

If you suspect that there is an old fireplace hiding behind one of your walls then you will no doubt be eager to set it free — opening up a fireplace is a job that can add value and charm to a home. Many period marble and stone fire surrounds will have been painted at some point," say the experts at Chenseys. "Using a paint stripper, layers of paint can easily be removed, and the original material revealed and then waxed and polished. Using a carpenter’s level, verify that the horizontal line marking the vertical center on the focal point is level and adjust as needed. After each wipedown, rinse and wring out the sponge so that no excess water stays on the tile surface. Finally, precut the bottom row of tiles for the left and right walls and set the tiles in place. Leave a gap between the tile and the floor or hearth area. Use spacers to maintain a consistent gap. Allow the area to dry until the mortar achieves its initial cure and the tile becomes solidly bonded.