Mendota FV insert installation question

[Lyn21]

My contractor asked me what finish I planned to use with my Mendota FV gas insert and I said tile was most likely. The dealer mounted it protruding about 3/4 of an inch from the wall. I can fit my finger into this 3/4 inch space behind the front. I was told thi s is fixed — it can’t be adjusted. This is too much space for tile which should not I think be pushed behind the face of the unit anyway—limited info online says it should be mounted flush so that tile can abut the side of the front frame. I would be fine with just finishing the nonflammable wall material — mudding and paint would be my first choice now. I did ask my countertop installer about stone and they said the distance would need to be adjusted in that case too. I think my best option is to use appropriate nonflammable material and build out the wall to meet the insert. I don’t have an installation manual and can’t find one online. Is there a way for me to get a copy of the installation manual? Did my contractor or dealer make a mistake. Do I have to pay to build out my wall or should my contractor or dealer be responsible?

 

[DAKSY]

Didn’t the contractor use the installation manual? Where’s THAT copy?

 

[Lyn21]

The local Mendota dealer installed it for the contractor. I raised this issue with my contractor by email, but have not gotten any response. I want to know if it is reasonable for me to expect them to fix it. If it was not installed correctly, that should give me grounds to push this.

 

[Lyn21]

My contractor replied: “As I understand it, this is the common install for this unit to allow tile or stackstone or other non combustible to fit in behind.” Is this correct—my tile needs to go under the front and the front will then float on top of that with space between them. If so it looks really odd and not like other units I have seen.

 

[Millbilly]

What stage of construction are you in here? Is there board up yet? Can you post some pics. I don't like mud and paint regardless of if you use high temp paint I see so many start to crack above the fireplace like this.

 

[Millbilly]

Is this an insert or a fireplace?

 

[Lyn21]

Sorry this is a Mendota Full View fireplace. This first picture is looking down on the fireplace. There is 3/4” between the wall and the frame and the brown line showing the floor beneath is the space between the doors and the frame with the window. The last shows my fingers fitting in behind the frame of the fireplace—this is the 3/4” space. Should it be installed 3/4” proud so to speak of the nonflammable wall material behind it? I thought that it should be installed flat to the wall for tile which would then abut against the side of the frame. Or, my preferred choice, looking like it is just mounted on the wall — perhaps just mudding and painting?

 

[Millbilly]

What's the actual model you have

 

[Lyn21]

I have the gas fireplace: Mendota FV34 unit includes fan, full function remote, dual burner with back burner shut off, accent light, safety screen front. There is an added homestead door. Thank you for your help!