 Re: Metal lath or backerboard? Special waterproof stucco necessary?
Hi Chris,
This sounds right. I have always thought that using concrete board was the best way to create flat and linear surfaces. It goes up quickly, and it is smooth and level. In that way it's like drywall; you screw it in place and tape the joints, and it is ready for the finish coats. The process of building the enclosure (which you have done), is the same as drywall, with studs on 16" centers, concrete board joints centered on the studs, taped joints, etc.
The advantage of rebar and stucco lathe is that it lets you create a more organic shape. Which will work for you around the chimney.
You are lucky -- you get to do both.
James |