Wood Heater Hearth/Backer

2 years ago

last modified: 2 years ago

I plan to install a wood burning heater in the den of my home. I am on pier and beam so I can't go crazy with weight but the support should be fine for the heater and some stone or other hearth material.

My question is related to the type of stone that will withstand lots of heating/cooling cycles. I would like to select two, maybe limestone?, slabs. One will be placed in a mortar bed on the floor and the other slab I would like to stand against the wall behind the stove as a heat reflector but largely for looks. The rough dimensions for the stones would be 2" thick, 4' X 5'. I know sedimentary stone may have weak or more porous layers. Are there any particular stones I should look for or avoid for my concept?

If I have to, I can do some kind of stacked stone veneer but I think the rough, natural stone would look good.

The heater will be centered between the two windows in the photo.

Thanks for your input!

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Comments (5)

jrb451
2 years ago
Have you computed the weight of two stone slabs that large, and a stove? What kind of heater are you considering? I would think any stone of that thickness could withstand the heat from a heater/stove.
John 9a
Original Author
2 years ago
I could come up with some estimated weight numbers but they would only be wild estimates until I choose the exact heater and stones. Not sure what to do with the weight numbers since I don't have any engineering weight tolerance for the structure. I have taken a look at the structure and it will do fine with my concept. I just wanted to keep people from suggesting I build a big brick hearth or a standard fireplace.

The heat should not be a big deal since the heaters have specifications for below, behind, and side spacing to prevent overheating even wood. My concern is that some stones may "weather" and try to separate into pieces of shale over time.
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jrb451
2 years ago
If you have no concerns about the weight and heat is not a big deal, then any stone would work, Yes?
John 9a
Original Author
last year
Quoting from my prior post:

" My concern is that some stones may "weather" and try to separate into pieces of shale over time. "

I was hoping someone with actual experience would be able to comment rather than propose I'm not concerned.
jrb451
last year
Sorry for appearing argumentative. Not my intention. Hope you get your information.