Multi Piece Precast Surround Installation Instructions

NOTE: This installation guide is meant to aid experienced contractors and qualified individuals only. It is intended to give the experienced contractors and qualified individuals an idea of how to install a HearthCo, Inc. precast fireplace mantel. HearthCo, Inc. will not be held liable for any installation not performed by HearthCo, Inc.

Preinstall

1. Make sure that the fireplace is level and that the face of the fireplace is flush with the sheetrock surface. If the fireplace is on a wood sub floor, check that the galvanized ember protector is installed. This should be installed by the fireplace contractor per the fireplace installation instructions.
2. Clean the surface that the hearth is to be installed on. It should be free of any dust or debris that would cause the surface to be uneven.
3. On the floor, place two dollops of construction adhesive about 2" in diameter approximately 12" out from the fireplace and 24" in each direction from the center of the fireplace.
4. Place the hearth tightly against the fireplace and the wall. Make sure it is centered with the fireplace.
5. Determine the height of the surround and cut leg to the appropriate height.
6. Center surround on fireplace. Check to make sure the surround is level, if not level, shim leg or re cut leg to level surround.

Install

1. You must scribe and grind the surround and legs so that the surround fits to the wall and the fireplace tight.
2. Check your line drawing for the distance outside of leg to outside of leg. (should be the length of the lintel) draw a plumb line vertical at that measurement making sure the lines are equal distance from the center of the fire box. Position the legs where desired. Install a 2x2 behind leg to be used as a screw block. Place legs back in position, check for level across the tops of the legs. Make adjustments using 1/8” shims, and secure into place. If installing a two piece leg, now place capital (top of leg) on top and secure in place.
3. Before setting the top section (mantel cap and lintel) drill 3 - 3/16” holes through the sheetrock (that will be covered by the top section) to provide expanding air a place to go.
4. Set the top section (mantel cap and lintel) on legs and check for level. If not level, shim leg to level surrounds. Make sure it is centered on the fireplace and legs.
5. On the top of the surround, in line with the framing that secures the fireplace, drill a 3/16" hole 1" away from the wall straight down into the surround. With the drill still turning, round out the top of the hole by swirling the drill 360 degrees around.
6. Using 3" drywall screws, angle screw at a 45 degree angle and screw into solid backing. Stop the screw just below the surface. You should have at least two screws to hold the surround against the wall.
7. NOTE: Do not put any screws into the face of the cap, or the lintel. You must not put any torque or stress on the surround other than screws in the top for fastening it to the wall.
8. Mix up a small amount (1/4 cup) of patch material. Using a putty knife, patch the holes, let dry, and sand smooth.
9. Caulk all the areas where the surround meets the wall, fireplace and hearth with a quality latex caulk.