Expert: James Ball - 10/26/2010

Question
QUESTION: Hi, i have a zero clearance fireplace that i need some help with. The bottom of the unit is filled with concrete or mortar. I don't know if there any bricks in there or not. The mortar in the bottom is cracked and I want to replace it but I cant find any info on what type of concrete or mortar to use. The mortar at the corners of the steel plates is also in need of replacing. This i found in a tube at Home Depot and Ace. Can you recommend a material to use to fix this.Thanx

ANSWER: Hello Dave, some ZCF used a mortar  mix from the factory and they poured that on the floor of the fireplace then use refractory panels for the 2 side walls and back wall.
if you could find out who made your ZCF you might be able to track some down, if not I do not know what you could use regular cement may not work properly. Maybe a piece of sheet metal (Not galvanized) over the old?
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 they should be able to help.
Hope this helps
James


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: No question really. I called my local masonry supplier and they sell a hi temp mortar for fireplaces for 20 bucks a bag.Just thought i would pass that on.

Answer
Welcome back Dan, yes I know we use that for fireplace repointing, what you are talking about might not be the best stuff to use?
the ZC fireplaces need their base motor some thing else might change how the heat is dispersed and cause a fire. find there mortar.
James