One 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 so that the surround fits to the wall and the fireplace tight.
2. Before setting the surround, drill 3 - 3/16" holes through the sheetrock (that will be covered by the top section) to provide expanding air a place to go.
3. Put a 1" dollop of construction adhesive on the hearth where the legs will sit. Place the surround back on the hearth tightly against wall, making sure it is centered on the fireplace.
4. 4On 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.
5. Using 3" drywall screws, angle screw at a 45 degree angle and screw into solid backing. Stop the screw just below the top surface. You should have at least two screws to hold the surround against the wall.
6. NOTE: Do not put any screws into the face of the cap, the lintel or the legs. You must not put any torque or stress on the surround other than screws in the top for fastening it to the wall.
7. Mix up a small amount (1/4 cup) of patch material. Using a putty knife, patch the holes, let dry, and sand smooth.
8. Caulk all the areas where the surround meets the wall, fireplace and hearth with a quality latex caulk.