Can I install bricks directly onto drywall to retain and release heat from my woodstove, or do I need a barrier to prevent heat transfer?
Asked by Aleksandra Aasland 
2 months ago
Last Updated: September 28, 2024
I’m thinking about putting some bricks behind my woodstove to help keep the heat and for the aesthetics. The wood stove is good with the clearance for the walls, but the drywall still gets pretty warm. So, I’m wondering if I can just put the bricks directly on the drywall, or if I need to use something to block the heat. Any advice? Thanks!
What are you thinking of doing for the raised panels on the wall to the left?
Is, of course, removing them.
Hey there! I wanted to check with you – a rated firewall is typically made with 5/8 drywall according to code. But if you were to add something like airstone on top of the drywall, it should still provide the necessary fire rating.
It’s important to learn about wood stove clearances to combustibles and heat shields. Here’s a resource to get you started: https://www.directstoves.com/resources/a-guide-to-wood-burning-stove-heat-shields/
Generally, wood stoves require 36″ clearance from flammable materials, unless the stove manual states otherwise. A heat shield can reduce this clearance by half.
I already have my wood stove at the recommended distance from combustibles, but I still notice that the drywall gets warm – not too hot though! I’m not a fan of the heat shield look, which is why I’m interested in using bricks instead.
Bricks can help shorten the distance effectively if done correctly. They can act as a heat shield, but it’s important to maintain a 1″ gap behind them for airflow. Many people underestimate the impact of heat on flammable materials near a stove and how heat shields function. When I was planning our fireplace, I took time to educate myself on this topic, resulting in significant changes to my design compared to my initial ideas.
I’ve got a wood stove that meets the required clearances. I also use a laser thermometer to check the temperature of the drywall, which can exceed 140f when the stove is running. That’s pretty hot! (I like my coffee at 140 degrees!)
I’m not sure about the flash point of drywall, but I’m certain it’s much higher than 140 degrees. Even paper needs oven temperatures to ignite (300+).
When installing brick near a wood stove, make sure to use cement “rock board” attached to wall studs before mortaring the brick in place. Consider using brick tile for a thinner profile. Here’s an example of the type of board you might need: https://www.homedepot.com/p/James-Hardie-HardieBacker-0-42-in-x-3-ft-x-5-ft-Cement-Backerboard-220023/100170507
Check out this brick style here: https://www.homedepot.com/p/MSI-Noble-Red-7-89-in-x-2-64-in-x-0-10-in-Clay-Thick-Thin-Brick-Box-of-50-SMOT-CTL-NBREDC/325355638?source=shoppingads&locale=en-US&srsltid=AfmBOooWn1Df7pDPm8FcrwB37wBm_ZTYJLzkCNRS9taqRXd3KPXj7qpS6Pk