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Smooth Wall
When creating a smooth wall finish around the fireplace the correct materials and installation method must be followed to
minimize the risk of cracks forming on the wall. Promat Promafour and SkamoEnclosure Board are two of the best options when
creating a smooth wall finish. These boards have been designed to create a smooth wall finish around a fireplace. These
materials can be hard to source and may not be available in all areas.
Another recommended option when creating a smooth wall look is to utilize the Cool Wall heat transfer system. The cool wall
system keeps the wall above the fireplace cooler reducing the risk of the finishing material cracking. When the cool wall system
is used Hardibacker 500 is recommended material to use. This material is available at most hardware stores.
NOTE:
When using Hardibacker to create a smooth wall finish it is recommended that two sheets are used to make a 1” thick
wall on the fireplace. This depth matches the finishing guides on the fireplace and results in a clean finish.
For all smooth wall installations, the wall material should not be screwed to the metal face of the fireplace. The wall material
should be attached to the wood framing around the fireplace and floated over the face of the fireplace. Size and install the
boards so there are no seams above the fireplace. This will reduce the risk of the wall cracking as the fireplace expands and
contracts during heating and cooling.
Ceramic or Porcelain Tile
Use of ceramic or porcelain tiles as facing materials around a Mendota fireplace is approved. If selecting a mosaic tile where
tiles are held together with a webbing, ensure the webbing is a non-combustible material like fiberglass. Also ensure that the
tiles are not attached to the webbing with a glue or epoxy that will off gas and smell when heated.
Use caution when selecting tile adhesives. Avoid polymer-modified mortars. These mortars will off-gas and smell when heated.
Use unmodified dry-set mortar or hi-temp RTV Silicone to attach ceramic glazed tiles as facing in hot areas around this fireplace.
If using hi-temp RTV silicone, allow a minimum 48 hours cure time. A non-combustible backer board must be used when
installing tile in a non-combustible zone around the fireplace.
Marble, Granite and Natural Stones
Marble, granite and other natural stone products are approved for use as mantel, facing and hearth pad materials with the
following limitations and understanding of these cautionary statements:
Never use a one-piece marble, granite or natural stone that is water jet or mechanically cut in a U -shape
as facing material to cover the sides and top areas around this product. Doing so can lead to crack
formation at the inner corners of the U shape due to thermal expansion.
Figure 3-22 Three Piece Stone
Most marble slabs and marble tiles contain a polyester resin coating while most granite slabs and granite tiles contain epoxy
resin coatings. The polyester resin coatings and the epoxy resin coatings provide structural strength to the stone slabs and
prevent cracking, chipping and breakage during shipping and handling. These coatings also provide a glossy or satin surface
finish and help seal the stone surface.
