Cavity (Chase) Construction Notes - ORTAL Front Facing Series Installation And Operation Manual

PHASE 4: APPLY FINISHES
•
Apply finishes and install accessories. Make sure to follow all clearances as outlined in the "Clearance
& Finish Diagrams" section.
•
Turn the project over to the customer. See "Turning Project Over to End User" section for details.

Cavity (Chase) Construction Notes

Non-combustible Framing
The wall behind an ORTAL fireplace (either at the back or side of the fireplace) and the ceiling above the unit
must be non‐combustible construction such as 5/8" Type X Drywall, concrete, brick, concrete masonry units,
or plaster on metal framing and lath. Penetrations in the wall or ceiling, such as electrical boxes, must be
removed and patched to assure integrity of the non‐combustible enclosure.
Combustible Framing
The first 18'' (minimum) of framing MUST be non‐combustible (steel studs). Existing walls or ceilings built of
combustible materials may be used if the wall or ceiling is covered with 5/8" Type X Drywall or its equivalent.
An exception to this rule is when the walls of the chase do not extend all the way to the ceiling and allow a
"gap" for heat release. In this scenario, ½" Type X Drywall (or its equivalent) may be used to match the
thickness of Type X Drywall used on the ceiling outside the chase.
Floor/Platform
An ORTAL fireplace can be set on wood, concrete, metal and other typical solid floor types. ORTAL fireplaces
come with legs that position the unit above the floor or platform on which they are installed. (See unit
drawings for height.) To raise an ORTAL fireplace, build a platform to which the unit can be secured. Platform
must be stable and able to bear the full weight of the fireplace. Platform can be constructed out of wood,
concrete, metal or any other solid materials. Material does not have to be non-combustible.
To lower a fireplace, it must be recessed into the floor. The legs cannot be removed, cut or adjusted.
Drywall Chase Interior
Wood framing must be covered with 5/8" Type X Drywall or its equivalent on the inside portion of the cavity.
In remodeling projects, apply a layer of 5/8" Type X Drywall (or its equivalent) over existing material, unless it
is certain that the existing surfaces are 5/8" Type X Drywall or another acceptable non‐combustible material.
Installing the Fireplace and Venting
The installation of the fireplace and venting can only be completed by an authorized ORTAL dealer unless
otherwise authorized by ORTAL via documented approval. ORTAL fireplaces must be installed in accordance
with the ORTAL Installation Manual and applicable local and national building codes. Install the direct vent
pipe, make gas and power connections, and provide fire stopping or thimble where the direct vent pipe
penetrates the wall or ceiling of the chase.
Building the Front Wall
It is recommended to postpone installation of the front wall of the cavity until after the fireplace and pipe have
been installed. This will allow access for installing drywall inside the chase, positioning the ORTAL fireplace and
direct vent pipe, and making necessary connections.
Install framing in accordance with building codes and project specifications. All studs are placed 16 inches on
center, or per local code.
70 Ortal Installation Manual: Built-In Models, September 2018