Oven Entry question

[Jed]

Originally Posted by Jim Bob

I see what you are talking about on the colored concrete. it looks good. So, when dry did you take up the 2x4 boards on the edge? That still leaves 3.5" of the insulated layer exposed below that on the edge. It seems to me as I watch this insulated layer cure that it is very unstable and will crumble or chip off at the slightest hit with any kind of tool. What am I missing here?
Thanks for your patience,
Jim Bob

Hi Jim Bob,

I wanted to cover the front edge also, so I used a 2 x 12 as a form for the counter top, and installed the form 2 1/2 inches in front of the front edge of the hearth (structural and insulating), added some bits of left over rebar, and set the concrete on the whole affair.... I worked to tamp, or vibrate the concrete down into this form working to avoid holes in the concrete. This covers the exposed edge of the hearth with an appropriate durable surface. I had considered trying to set other items in the concrete, to create a design, or add different colors, or have bits of stone set in the concrete, but was eventually satisfied with straight concrete....

These two photo's show the form, and the finished counter top. My intention is to come back in a month or two and grind this counter top to a smooth finish. This process will change the color, and the texture of the counter top. And if I don't get aroundtoit... the darn oven makes a great pizza (loaf of bread, pita, pulled pork, etc.) just as it is!

JED

[Jim Bob]

Jed,
Great idea. i do appreciate the tip. Was wondering how stable you thought the front edge will be without rebar that actually ties it into the main hearth?
I will certainly try to do the same thing. I have a 8" cantilevered front on my hearth slab, but should be able to use the same technique to cover the front edge.
Sure glad i signed up for this forum!
Jim Bob