New Base for Gas Insert

[cmunro]

I have a wood burning fireplace that was converted to a gas log set - I've removed the log set and am prepping to install a Heat n Glo Supreme gas insert. The conversion looks pretty straight forward except that the current base of firebrick is 2" below the brick front and the insert needs to slide right in (see pic).

I've removed the ash dump door and will seal it off with a piece of stainless steel sheet glued down with high-temp RTV. I've cut three sheets of 1/2" Durock to place in the fireplace as a new base and plan to pour some self-leveling concrete (LevelQuick RS) over the Durock to provide an assured level service - it'll be just shy of a 1/2" thick by my measure.

Do I need to secure the Durock? The pieces are cut precisely and nest in very tight. The leveler will fill in any minor gaps around the edges. I can't see anything moving or expanding, but this isn't something I've done before.

The door on the right is a Vestal air vent that I've removed to run electrical power through - easier than coming up through the ash dump.

Very much appreciate any issues you folks can see with this approach. Thank you in advance!

 

[Lennox65]

I have a wood burning fireplace that was converted to a gas log set - I've removed the log set and am prepping to install a Heat n Glo Supreme gas insert. The conversion looks pretty straight forward except that the current base of firebrick is 2" below the brick front and the insert needs to slide right in (see pic).

I've removed the ash dump door and will seal it off with a piece of stainless steel sheet glued down with high-temp RTV. I've cut three sheets of 1/2" Durock to place in the fireplace as a new base and plan to pour some self-leveling concrete (LevelQuick RS) over the Durock to provide an assured level service - it'll be just shy of a 1/2" thick by my measure.

Do I need to secure the Durock? The pieces are cut precisely and nest in very tight. The leveler will fill in any minor gaps around the edges. I can't see anything moving or expanding, but this isn't something I've done before.

The door on the right is a Vestal air vent that I've removed to run electrical power through - easier than coming up through the ash dump.

Very much appreciate any issues you folks can see with this approach. Thank you in advance!

That will work fine.

 

[Millbilly]

You are doing more than 99.9% professional installers do.

 

[cmunro]

Thanks you for your comments - much appreciated