Table of Contents
Advertisement
LIGHTWEIGHT BLOCK-IN INSTALLATION
READ THIS ENTIRE MANUAL THROUGH BEFORE STARTING TO BUILD A BLOCK-IN
FIREPLACE. THERE ARE CERTAIN SPECIFICATIONS AND MEASUREMENTS LISTED IN
THE LIGHTWEIGHT BLOCK-IN SPECIFICATIONS PORTION OF THIS MANUAL THAT
MUST BE MET TO INSURE A PROPER INSTALLATION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE
SPECIFICATIONS MAY PRESENT A FIRE HAZARD.
Chase Framed Wall Installation
Following the specifications listed in the section titled "LIGHTWEIGHT BLOCK-IN
SPECIFICATIONS", construct the chase following all building codes that may apply. Make
sure it adheres to all of the specifications before proceeding. The chase should totally
enclose the position where the masonry block-in will be built. It should go from the floor to
the ceiling and when the facing is installed, be enclosed. The chase air vent is mandatory
because it allows air to flow into the chase area. Because the double-wall chimney draws air
out of the chase area, it is necessary to have this vent to allow outside air in. Otherwise the
chimney would not perform properly and create a hazard. The header of the chase is often
left off prior to installing the masonry enclosure to make the chimney installation easier.
Factory-Built Chimney Installation
Following the specifications listed in the factory-built chimney portion of "LIGHTWEIGHT
BLOCK-IN SPECIFICATIONS", and the manufacturer's instructions, construct the chimney
leaving off the last connector until the fireplace is actually put into place. Make sure it aligns
with the final position of the fireplace and the starter section of the chimney. It is better to
have the chimney system installed before constructing the block-in because it allows more
space for installing the chimney. A 2 x 4 nailed across the chase can support the bottom
portion of the chimney while the block-in is being constructed.
Block-In Installation
Before starting to install the block-in, read the specifications portion of the "LIGHTWEIGHT
BLOCK-IN SPECIFICATIONS". Make a detailed drawing of all the important measurements
needed to complete the construction. It is also a good idea to lay some of the blocks on the
ground, along with the facing and a template of the fireplace, ahead of time to make sure all
of the measurements follow the specifications.
Laying the Vapor Barrier:
The first step in building a block-in is to lay a vapor barrier on the floor location where the
masonry will be placed. The vapor barrier must be made of a minimum 26 gauge galvanized
tin, 36" wide by 52" long. It must include a hole for the air duct if the bottom air hook-up is
chosen. Nail the vapor barrier to the floor with the 52" length centered on the opening of the
framing and the backside against the back wall. The vapor barrier will extend beyond the
block-in in front and in back. These portions should not be removed because they provide
protection against heat and act as an ember protector between hearth extension and block-
in. They can be covered with non-combustible tile, brick, or stone if desired. NOTE: Vapor
barrier is not necessary for non-combustible floors.
Page 24
Advertisement
Table of Contents
