I'd like to expand my flush hearth in front of the stove insert by about 12 inches out by 5 feet wide. The space where the extension will go is currently part of the floor framing, 3x6 (full dimension) floor joists that I can easily access in the cellar. I'm thinking I have a couple of options. Cut the pine floor boards off the joists,add spacers and top with a piece of hardy backer then the finished top- I'm thinking bluestone tiles. Option two is to to frame out the area, nail a piece of plywood to the bottom to make a 5 sided form, then pour a lightweight concrete mix before topping with thin blue stone veneer on top. Any tips if I go with the pour?
