C. Installation of
Gypsum wallboard (drywall) joints adjacent to the
fireplace opening require special attention to minimize potential development of cracking. Hearth and Home Technologies recommends the following steps to mini- mize potential cracks in the finished drywall around the fireplace opening:
•When installing gypsum wallboard around the fire- place, install the hole for the fireplace opening in a single wallboard sheet, if possible. This will mini- mize the joints adjacent to the fireplace opening.
•The
•The
•For the initial Taping Coat, it is critical that a general- purpose chemically hardening joint compound, such as SHEETROCK™ Brand Durabond™
•For the second and third finishing coats, it is ac- ceptable to use a
•Do not operate the fireplace during the drywall
finishing process. Allow the finish coat to cure for at least 24 hours prior to using the appliance.
Painting
If desired finishing includes a painted wall, 100% acrylic latex with compatible primer is recommend around the appliance.
Wallboard Joint-Crack Prevention and Repair
Wallboard joints around the fireplace will be affected by exposure to elevated temperatures, along with other en- vironmental and structural factors. The specific methods presented in the previous section will help prevent or minimize development of cracks.
If a crack does emerge adjacent the fireplace, it can be permanently repaired by filling it with spackling paste or paintable latex caulk, followed by repainting.
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