Overview – USG Casting Fireplace Surrounds User Manual
Page 3
Overview
Cast fireplace surrounds have become increasingly popular,
including those made from gypsum cements, foamed poly-
urethanes and Portland cement materials.
This manual is a guide to the use of gypsum cements in
manufacturing decorative fireplace surrounds. Because there
are so many variations of design, finish, and placement relative
to the firebox, this manual addresses the factors affecting the
finished piece when it is installed.
Review this information, making the basic decisions about
target markets, designs, raw materials, and output before
deciding how to create the surrounds. Although similar to
other ornamental gypsum cement markets, some factors
differentiate this market, including the safety issues of creating
a product used in high-temperature environments.
The information provided here will help you create high-
quality fireplace surrounds that meet performance expectations.
Pages
Planning
4
Firebox and Insert Knowledge
Building Code Considerations
Production
10
Getting Started
Fiber Reinforcement
Design Considerations
Manufacturing
Mold Materials
Process Flow
Raw Materials
Installation
23
Safety
Support
24
Appendix
Technical Service
Glossary
800 USG.4YOU
References
Web Site
www.usg.com