Here is a fantastic idea if you are thinking about a do-it-yourself (DIY) project. After all, it is rewarding; all you need to know is how to build a fireplace surround. Besides, we have a detailed guide to help you along the way.
It is no secret that a fireplace surround will decorate any room you install it in. All you need to do is choose the right designs and build it excellently. You can use metal, wood, tile, or stone, among other materials.
So, if you want to add this decorative aspect to your living room, keep reading. Let’s figure out how to build a fireplace surround without further ado.
1. What You Need to Build a Fireplace Surround
Before building your fireplace surround, gather the necessary materials and tools. They include the following;
1.1 Materials You Need to Build a Fireplace Surround
- 1.5″ Brad Nails
- 1×2 pine
- 2.5″ wood screws
- 2×4 lumber
- Caulk
- Caulking gun
- Decorative baseboards
- Dust mask
- Flat stock trim
- Laser Level
- Level
- Measuring tape
- Paint or stain
- Paintbrush or roller
- Painters tape
- Safety goggles
- Sandpaper or sander
- Wood filler
- Work gloves
1.2 Power Tools You Need to Build a Fireplace Surround
- Mitre saw
- Impact Driver
- Drill
- Brad nailer
2. A Step-by-step Guide on How to Build a Fireplace Surround
Here is how to build a fireplace surround from the beginning to the end.
2.1 Step 1: Measuring, Planning, and Designing the Fireplace Surround
What are the dimensions of the fireplace surround you plan to build? Ensure you choose the right dimensions so the shape and size can be as you wish. Besides measurements, the design should also be excellent. It is crucial to sketch various designs to choose the most suitable one.
If you want a modern style, minimalist elements and clean lines will do the trick. Mark the area using painter’s tape and check out the space it will occupy. Ensure that it is proportional to the size of your room and the furniture in it. Some people go for a fireplace mantel, although it isn’t mandatory. Baseboards make great trim styles as long as you choose the edges wisely.
2.2 Step 2: Cutting and Mounting the Fireplace Frame
Take your stock and cut outside pieces. After that, cut its edges at an angle accurately. Otherwise, those edges won’t align perfectly. If you want an easy time, build your frame directly to that wall. Several issues may arise if you build the frame and then attach it to the wall. The most common one is struggling to ensure the frame is square.
Use 2×4 lumber for the outer layer and stack up to 3 for aesthetics. Use the brad nailer to attach the trim after that. Don’t expect a tight fit if the edges don’t hold together perfectly.
2.3 Step 3: Attaching the baseboards to the lumber
As you build a fireplace surround, don’t forget the decorative baseboards. Attach them to the outer 2×4 lumber for a nice look. Using a 45-degree mitre when working on the edges is advisable. Otherwise, there are high chances of compromising the design continuity.
2.4 Step 4: Working on the Fireplace Surround’s Inner Layers
Go for the baseboards, but tuck them behind the top layer slightly. Combine pine and lumber for an ideal height of the flat stock. Drill them into studs before nailing the flat stock on top.
Next, cut the edges and be keen enough to get it right. Take all the time you need to ensure the size is great. The imperfections will be too obvious unless the cut and fit are perfect. That’s why you shouldn’t cut the board too short or hide any imperfections, which will be impossible.
2.5 Step 5: Preparing for the Installation of the Tiles
You can use a shiplap, preferably 12 inches, to ensure the fireplace surround has a flush surface. For a slight overlap, use lumber to raise that shiplap.
A 2×4 one ensures its height is similar to a gas fireplace’s. You will love the professional look, no doubt. The frame and the fireplace insert should be leveled.
2.6 Step 6: Installing the Tiles
With the base ready, it is time to install the tiles. Marble tiles never disappoint; hence, they are a great choice. You also get to choose the color you deem fit, and it is always great to choose one that matches your home décor.
You can always go for a marble slab if you have a big budget. However, if you find the slab and its installation too much, you don’t have to give up on building the fireplace surround.
On the contrary, look for an alternative, such as the 24 x 12″ tile. It also looks fantastic, not forgetting the minimal lines for a perfect look.
As you install the tiles, there are things worth noting. For instance, the tiles will adhere excellently if you use a backer board. Due to the heavy nature of the tiles, giving them time to set will make a huge difference.
Using a premixed mortar will be bad if you use large tiles. You don’t want the tiles on the top layer to side down. That’s where the support bar comes in to avoid such an eventuality. Lastly, give the tiles up to 24 hours to dry perfectly.
2.7 Step 7: Adding the final touches
Once you build a fireplace surround, remember to do it some justice with the necessary final touches. For example, you should caulk around the edges where your fireplace meets the wall. Do the same for the decorative trim.
Instead of the caulk, you can also go for the popular wood filler. Despite being common, it isn’t easy to work with compared to the caulk.
Ensure you don’t miss out on any rough spots or imperfections. Do not hesitate to go for the wood filler, caulk, or sanding whenever needed. Do so for as long as it is necessary for great results. Use wood or wax filler to cover all the nail holes, too.
Final Words on How to Build a Fireplace Surround
You can build a fireplace surround from scratch using the above guide. All you need to do is gather all the necessary materials and tools to complete the job. Remember that each step is important since it determines how the fireplace will look like eventually.
Most importantly, pay more attention to the dimensions, cuts, and edges. Attach the edges accordingly, too, to avoid imperfection or looseness. If you do it right, your living room will improve. You will also love the satisfaction of such a successful DIY project.
Last Updated on by Kirti Chhikara21
