Downsize Opening on Wood Burning Firebox

[JM1978]

Hi,

New to forum. I have removed a pellet stove from a large (48" x 34") opening of a fireplace. I need to reface and want to build in from the sides as well as down from the lintel stating inside the firebox. I was considering using metal framing (studs and track) but I'm unsure how this would fare inside the firebox. Any suggestions?

 

[jatoxico]

What's the plan for the future, open fireplace, stove/insert?

 

[JM1978]

I'm on a budget so I plan to put Durock cement board with either faux stone or tile. The reason to keep the facing low-profile is to use the current mantel (pictured) which has 3.5" of space behind it for the facing to fit.

 

[JM1978]

Sorry, open fire. With screens/doors.

 

[jatoxico]

I'm not 100% clear on what you're doing but if you're just working on the outside I think you'd be fine to do what your thinking. If you're looking to reduce the interior of the firebox then IDK about that.

Need to have a mason in that case I would think.

 

[JM1978]

Ok. I was looking to attach framing to the fire brick near the edge of the opening. To this framing, I would attach the cement board. This reduces the opening dmensions without making the entire firebox smaller.

Thanks for answering.

 

[bholler]

Ok. I was looking to attach framing to the fire brick near the edge of the opening. To this framing, I would attach the cement board. This reduces the opening dmensions without making the entire firebox smaller.

Thanks for answering.

No it needs to be done out of masonry