Quadra-Fire 7051-158B Sealing at the Penetration of Building Envelope, Frame the Fireplace

R

EDGE 60 Pellet Fireplace

NOTE

•It is necessary to use sealing strips of non-combustible materials between the fi replace hearth and factory-built hearth extension.

•The use of a sand-cement grout between the hearth and an on-site constructed hearth extension is also necessary.

C. Sealing at the Penetration of Building

Envelope

The fi rst step for successfully creating an air barrier system is to seal all of the holes in the building envelope. Too often, builders concentrate on air leakage through windows, doors, and walls, and ignore areas of much greater importance. A key source of leakage—called a bypass—is hidden from view behind chases for fl ues and ductwork. It is important to make sure these areas are sealed to prevent leakage. A common way to seal areas behind chases for

flues and ductwork is to attach and caulk a piece of plywood or foam sheathing material that covers the entire opening. Seal penetrations. If a fl ue requires a noncombustible clearance, use a noncombustible metal collar, sealed in place to span the gap.

Sealing these bypasses is critical to reducing air leakage in a home and maintaining the performance of insulation materials.

D. Frame the Fireplace

Figure 26.1 shows typical framing using combustible materials (2x4 lumber shown).

•Framing across the top of fi replace must be above top standoffs.

•See page 33 for detailed information regarding sub-fl oor material requirements.

Figure 26.1 - Framing the Fireplace