Cultured Stone Fireplace Projects
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Cultured stone fireplace projects are common for home renovations and new home construction. People love this product because it offers an affordable method of adding beauty, warmth and elegance to any room. Cultured stone can replicate a wide variety of stone surfaces, including limestone, granite and river rock and gives any fireplace a vibrant appearance. The stones are scratch-resistant and light-weight. Some cultured stone products have up to a 50-year warranty.
Considerations
Check with a code enforcement inspector in the building code department to find out what the requirements are for fireplace installation. The regulations differ from area to area and are a critical element you must consider in the overall scheme of the project.
There are a multitude of cultured stone products available in colors and textures for virtually any type of look for fireplace projects, including traditional, rugged and contemporary. Choose from many options for designing your cultured stone fireplace. You may opt to mount stone around small areas of the fireplace mantle, such as the mantel facing and along the legs or columns. Some people position the fireplace in the middle of a wall and cover the entire wall with stone. Visit a fireplace design center, or go to some Internet sites to generate ideas about your project before you set out to purchase the material.
Installation Tips
The typical culture stone fireplace is a zero-clearance fireplace that is comprised of a stainless-steel pipe that is framed in by 2-inch by 4-inch boards or metal studs. Use cement board or plywood to sheath the framing. Fasten metal lathe to the surface of the board so that the mortar can properly bond to the surface. Apply the cultured stone after the scratch coat is dry.
When estimating the amount of materials, don't forget to subtract the area of the windows and doors from the total material calculations. Speak to the vendor and building code inspector about the requirements for a water-resistant barrier. Usually, this barrier is not a requirement for concrete or masonry stone walls.
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