Replacing a water heater in a very leaky, dusty closet. I thought I understand the need for a gap as so not to conduct heat to flammable material. So I used some high heat tape to seal it. Worked for a few weeks but it looks like condensation collected and detached the paint. Is there a better way?
The water stains were not there when I “improved” it. Think it’s a B type 4” but I know just enough to be dangerous. Double wall, original to the 1975 build judging by the old discolored paint spray.
![](/media/mediaFiles/36504/image-3257229.jpg)
Part of my work that fell away