I am making progress but have no idea what I am doing. Do I fill the gap between the bricks with mortar or let it be. I cut/grind the compound angles on the bricks but still have gaps. A few gaps are 1/4" or less and maybe 1/2 - 3/4 inch deep. I would like to hear from other builders if they filled the gaps and why? Will the heat break down the home brew mortar (3-1-1-1)? Is there a structural reason to fill the gap. There is brick to brick contact on each and plenty of mortar on the outside gaps.