Using Cement Board For Fireplace Surround

Note that you can use thunderbolts instead of adhesive and we often do if the walls are flat and true.

Using cement board for fireplace surround.

You will need to paint the surface of the inside walls of the recess and one side of the cement board with a pva mix 3 water to 1 pva. Once i figured out to add cement board to the fireplace surround i was a little worried about the edges of the cement board showing when it was installed. If you do this you have to countersink the holes in the board and use thunderbolts with tapered heads. However using fiber cement board like hardieboard is acceptable in locations including the mantel and fireplace surround.

Fire ratings the hardiebacker board is made with a quarter inch thickness so that it can serve as fireplace facing. Achieving a paintable fireplace surround with cement board if paul says hardiebacker then i d trust him. Cement board on the fireplace surround. I also like the stucco idea.

Before the tile can be placed cement board must be installed. I d use at least a foot of cement board to be safe if you can t find the spec. 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. Expanded metal mesh two coat stucco over top scratch and finish use play sand or another fine sand for a better finish and then prime paint.

Fireplace surround plywood or durock cement board. The cement board creates a sturdy surface for the tile installation. Homes with outdated brick fireplaces can be brought up to date with a new tile fireplace surround.