leveling firebox to hearth for new insert installation

[Boxer]

My firebox is almost an inch lower than the bricks on my hearth. The bottom of my insert is flat but the front part hangs out of the firebox 5 inches. It has four leveling bolts but they are not long enough to make up an inch. I though about longer bolts but that seems like a lot of weight to set on four bolts sittting on fire brick.

What is the best way to build this up so I’m flush with the hearth? I saw a similar thread but it was from 2006. What have you guys used to get around this?

Thanks

 

[AlbergSteve]

I would use any non-shrink grout available at most building supplies. A 50lb bag of Sika 212 for example will cover an area about 27"x27" at 1" thick, you might need 2 bags depending on the size of the firebox floor. The easiest way to apply it is to mix with the maximum specified water volume - this will make it pourable and self-leveling.

 

[bholler]

1" fire brick a couple layers of cement board steel u channel what ever you have that is noncombustible

 

[BKVP]

I'm with bholler. Keep it simple. Support the bottom of the firebox with some 1" thick firebrick. I have seen many, many insert installed this way. I would not just support the corners, but the entire area. You would use concrete bricks/slabs as well. Look at building supply stores.

 

[Boxer]

Thanks guys. I picked up my chimney this morning. I’m headed to Lowe’s now to grab some supplies. I’ll find something to level it up. I’m leaning towards durock board or bricks. I want to have the option to go back to a regular fireplace if I ever sell the house.

 

[BKVP]

Thanks guys. I picked up my chimney this morning. I’m headed to Lowe’s now to grab some supplies. I’ll find something to level it up. I’m leaning towards durock board or bricks. I want to have the option to go back to a regular fireplace if I ever sell the house.

If you use the boards, you can do micro adjustments as they are available in different thicknesses.

 

[Boxer]

If you use the boards, you can do micro adjustments as they are available in different thicknesses.

I went with two pieces of 1/2 inch Durock. It built up perfectly. Tomorrow I hope to get the chimney installed and a block off plate made. I wasted a lot of time today running around gathering supplies. Hopefully tomorrow I can get something done.