13
5) After the last side walls are in place it is time to install the
rebar. Mix approx. 2 cu. ft. of Ready-Mix Concrete. Insert
the 36” rebar vertically through the cells, into the holes in
the hearth, adjacent to the rebar and/or all-thread sticking
up from the hearth. Fill all cells with Ready-Mix Concrete
mix.
Keep damp at all
times while applying
mortar.
Figure 20
IMPORTANT! Keep in mind that, when applying the
mortar, you must frequently run a damp sponge to the
parts before mortar is applied!
6) Set the lintel in place as shown in
Figure 21
. Check that
all is level. If you need to make adjustments, use shims.
Place one or more of these shims between the lowest
wall component and the top surface of the base plate.
Once you are satisfied with the degree of levelness, you
can address any gap that may have occurred with an
appropriate amount of mortar.
Note:
Although you are cautioned to use mortar
sparingly because it does have such holding power, you
should look over the firebox assembly at the end and fill
in any gaps, especially joint connections, with the mortar.
Needless to say, you must make adjustments to be sure
the fireplace is level and square while the mortar is still
wet.
7) Set the remaining lintel as shown in
Figure 22
.
8) Now you are ready to start the smoke dome assembly.
Take the lower side dome positioned so that the beveled
face lines up with the inward angles of the lintel sides
(see
Figure 23
). Top surfaces should be level.
9) Now position the front/rear smoke dome parts on top of
dome. These parts require care in leveling, noting the
parts have a slight bevel. Check for vertical with level
(
Figure 24
).
10) As you are connecting each Grand Meridian component,
be certain you are following the instructions given
previously for using mortar. Stop to look at the smoke
dome side, front and rear walls to see that they are
aligning correctly and that the surfaces be smooth and
uniform. Make sure connections are covered with an
adequate amount of mortar. Remember that you have
the option of using shims and covering them with mortar
if you need to. Make any adjustments to the fireplace
alignment before continuing to the next step.
11) Check your assembly here. If things are proceeding as
they should be, the finished top surface should be flat
and level.
12) Now you can set the smoke dome top plate into position.
Be sure that it is flush in every direction as you place it
on the crest of the smoke dome wall assembly.
Figure 21
Building
Lower
Firebox
Figure 22
Lintel Assembly
Lintel
Lintel
Figure 23
Lower Side
Dome Assembly
Figure 24
Lower Dome
Assembly