finished the dome, need help with finishing chimney

[Tscarborough]

I am the same person. Personally I don't like that idea, but that is not say it won't work just fine.

[czaunb2]

Are you saying that because it is lacking the curve? Should I try something similar to what Dmun did with cutting the bricks at around a 97 degree angle to give me a curve?

I thought about getting the one from Buckly Rumford, but after calling and getting a quote of $1,500 for just the throat and smoke chamber, I decided to take it on myself. I was hoping to spend less than $1,500 for the entire project--not just two pieces.

So far, so good on the budget, but this is MUCH more work than I initally thought. . .now I realize why they charge so much.

Anyhow--all recommendations are greatly appreciated!!

[Tscarborough]

That curve is pretty important for a shallow fireplace. Yours looks to be a modified Rumsford, so it will probably be OK flat, but if you are making wood falsework anyway how hmuch harder would it be to make it curved?

[czaunb2]

that's a great question! This project was the first time I have ever laid a brick--just really into DIY projects and saving money. I have no idea how easy it would be to make a curve.

Do you think I could get some really thin wood and bend it into a curve and do something similar? I thought about that, but figured that it would be really risky since I was afraid that it would collapse before drying with such thin wood. Maybe I could just make more 2x4 supports all along the curve?

Or maybe cast it laying on the ground where gravity wouldn't be so much of an issue and just set it in place after it dries? Too heavy? These are all questions that I have thought up, but don't have any answers because I have rarely worked with either brick or concrete.

Thanks again for sharing!!

[czaunb2]

By the way--it is 42" wide and 34" talll and 16" deep at the base.

[Tscarborough]

Cut plywood to the curve, then cover with laths.

[Tscarborough]

You could make the opening height a little larger if you want, 2-4".

[czaunb2]

That is genius! I will definately cut the plywood and cover with laths--the thought never crossed my mind.

Thanks so much!!!

Also, I didn't want to make the opening height too tall (even though I think it looks better that way) because I was worried about the wind since it is outside.