Expert: James Ball - 7/29/2009

Question
We are rebuilding a fireplace and placing a PVC conduit in it in order to eventually put a television over the fireplace. The masons have different opinions as to what to use for insulation. One mason wants to use sand and the other mason is suggesting fiberglass.  What does create the best insulation around the conduit?  Why is this the best insulation to use. Any additional advice would be appreciated.  Also, we need the answer really soon! Thank you for your time and efforts.  Tom

Answer
Hello Thomas, I am not a big fan of TV's over fireplaces, as far as clearance to combustibles it should be 8" of brick, then 2" of air space then your wires (minimum)(in front of the smoke chamber and the smoke chamber must be pardged smooth) if you have that much room go for it if not then do not put the TV over the fireplace
James