Expert: James Ball - 11/21/2008

Question
I am planning to install my wood stove. I have to construct a non combustible wall spaced out by 1 inch. I originally was going to use cement board. If I do so, I want to know if I can paint the board with latex paint after it is secured to the wall?? I also considered sheet metal, also spaced by one inch, but have no idea how to finish the metal for decor purposes. Any opinions and advice would be great!! I know I can tile over the cement board, but I am concerned about the extra weight. Please help!!!

Answer
Hello Jenn, they make a high temp "stove" paint that should hold up fairly well. I would have a local Certified Chimney Sweep (www.csia.org, there you can look up by zip code to find one near you) take a first hand look at what you have to make sure your install is safe.
keep me posted
James