Hearth tile question?

[jeffman3]

I have my tile finally set! In order to get my tile dead on level I had to set them on a thick bed of thin-set.(yes... latex modified) 1/2 inch on thick side, 1/4 inch on thin side. (This is on top of 5 layers of 5/16 Durock over 3/4 inch cdx with thin-set between each layer.) I waited a week to lay the tile due to work schedules. How long should I let this set up before I grout the tile in? (It has been in for 24 hours at this point.) I would like to grout ASAP, but don't want to rush this, and bump something loose. I will post a picture when It is all done and the stove is installed at the end of the month.

 

[Bushfire]

Having waited 24 housr already, you hsould all be set to grout. The grout I used needed 16 hours before being able to walk on, so do wait on installing that stove until teh grout has had time to cure. Also, be sure to wipe off excess grout before it has had too long to set up, otehrwise you'll be in trouble with grout stains on the tile. You can usually wipe off excess grout after about 10-15 mins, and then wait a coupel of hours and come back and buff the tiles. Be especially careful with slate, if that's what you're using as the grout gets in all the tiny little crevices - I speak from experience. can't wait to see that finsihed picture.

 

[Tarmsolo60]

If it is slate, I've seen people cover all the slate with wide blue painters tape, except of course the grout openings. Then after grouting is finished you won't have any grout stuck in the uneveness of the slate. It is time consuming, but you won't have grout where it shouldn't be. I've never done it but have seen it done.

 

[thephotohound]

I've done multiple slate floors, and although the tape works, it is extremely time consuming. Since you have to seal slate anyway, simply seal the slate before you grout (1 coat, let dry, 1 more coat). Grout as usualy, and then simply clean really well before the grout sets up (like regular tile). Works like a charm.

Did you say 5 LAYERS of 5/16 Durock with mortar in between each layer? That means you have approx 1 1/2 inches of cement BEFORE the tile? Is this code in Nebraska? Seems like incredible overkill to me. If you haven't blocked between the joists below, I strongly advise to do so. Also, you may want to consider additional support from below (column or wall). That's A LOT of weight. Just my $.02.

 

[jeffman3]

No... It's not code in NE. In fact I couldn't find code in NE. My insurance CO. didn't even bump my rates, and the Village offices almost laughed at me when I called and asked about code. By my figures I should have .97 R factor in the pad and 2.94" deep with the tile. I am planning a closet under the pad, and I have talked about this project with our maintenance dept at the plant, (lots of construction experience there) and while they never looked at the project, they told me I would be fine. By my figures I am at about 43-45 lbs/ft2 over the area, with the stove. Maybe a tad more,but not to much I tend to estimate high. I am looking forward to getting this done and installed I have been taking pic's all the way through the process. I have a record of each step along the way, almost...... , i think..... we'll have to see.

 

[Highbeam]

Nothing wrong with a stack of durock except for the weight. These Hearthstone stoves need a lot of insulation in the hearth. My Heritage needed 1.2 or 5 layers of 1/2" durock plus tile. I opted for two 1/2" layers of durock on top of a steel stud cavity. Air gives good R -value.

 

[JimWalshin845]

24 hours should be fine. We recently redid our hearth and we have done tile jobs in the past.

Can't wait for your photos!

 

[jeffman3]

I talked to the dealer yesterday, and she said that we are scheduled for the 28th for install. I was hoping for x-mas, but I guess new year will work too. I will post pics when it's all done. :cheese: