Fireplace surround system and method of making same

Abstract

A modular fireplace surround assembly for a fireplace opening is formed from a plurality of surround components comprising a first set of components, having a foam core and a manufactured stone veneer shell, located at least 8 inches from the fireplace opening, and a second set of components formed of entirely noncombustible materials including manufactured stone veneer. The first set of components are adapted to receive fasteners that pass through the back member for either direct or indirect mounting to the wall. In one embodiment, the first set of components includes a mantel shelf formed of interconnected, main and top components. The second set of components also establishes a front facing formed of a plurality of modular, interchangeable blocks arranged about the top and sides of the fireplace opening.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]The present invention pertains to the art of fireplaces and, more particularly, to manufactured stone veneer assemblies for surrounding fireplace openings.[0003]2. Discussion of the Prior Art[0004]Interior fireplaces are often located in houses or other buildings such as hotels, restaurants, etc. to provide heat and also to add to the aesthetic appeal. Usually the fireplace is located in a wall of the house and has a fireplace opening so that the occupants of the home may tend to a fire in the fireplace and the fireplace can radiate heat into the house. The brick, stone, other masonry or wood detail surrounding a fireplace opening is known in the art as a decorative fireplace surround. Fireplace surrounds are commonly used to enhance the look and feel of a fireplace and also function to cover otherwise unsightly features of the fireplace, such as fireplace vents or the unfinished interface between the fireplace and the ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention is a modular fireplace surround assembly that allows for quick and inexpensive installation on site. The assembly includes a plurality of components that can be customized by the consumer, with each component having a foam core and a manufactured stone veneer shell. The components can be mounted in various ways using fasteners and adhesive. The fireplace surround is formed of noncombustible materials and is safe and secure. The technical effects of the invention include a customizable fireplace surround that is safe, secure, and easy to install."

Problems solved by technology

While such a structure is quite durable, it is also quite expensive to construct.

Unfortunately, affixing mantel shelves, legs or other surround components to the support wall can be difficult and time consuming.

However, using a metal lath requires cutting, is expensive and sometimes difficult to install.

Often the mantel shelf and legs may be displaced by other construction activities before the adhesive has dried.

As a result, the mantel shelf, legs and other components may be positioned at an odd angle when the adhesive dries, giving an undesirable look and usually requiring an expensive fix.

This method suffers in that it can be cumbersome and time consuming to properly position the hooks on the wall and the mantel shelf.

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