how to build a fireplace surround
How to Build a Fireplace Surround
If you are thinking of remodeling your fireplace, then knowing the procedure for building a fireplace surround will be very useful. In this article we are going to discuss how to build a fireplace surround yourself.
- 4 x 8 foot sheet of ¾ inch medium density fiberboard
- 30 feet long ½ x ½ inch flat wood molding
- 30 feet long ½ x ¾ inch Cyma Reversa wood molding
- 8 feet long 2 ½ inch wood crown molding
- Super glue
- Drywall screws
- Construction adhesive
- 2 inch finishing nails
- Paintable latex caulk
- 1 can latex primer
- 1 can latex paint
- Tape rule
- Screwdriver
- Sanding block with 120-grit sandpaper
- Table saw
- Putty knife
- Paintbrushes
- Hammer
- Nail set
- Clamps
- Caulking gun
- To build this fireplace surround, first you need to measure the length, breadth and thickness of your existing fireplace. Once that is done, draw the design of your fireplace surround on a paper and consider how much the dimensions of your surround should be, so that it looks aesthetically appealing.
- For this project we have a surround that measures 51 inches in length and 65 inches in width. Moreover it consists of two supporting columns on either side of the fireplace surround, that are 7 ½ inches wide. The beams are supported on top with a bridge beam that measures 12 ½ inches.
- While building a fireplace surround, you have to remember to fit each sub assembly first and then install them separately. Doing this allows for a better finish.
- To start building this fireplace, first apply a single coat of primer over the fiberboard. Next, lightly sand over the edges and corners of the fiberboard so that you have smooth edges and the grains of the wood are polished.
- Now apply a coat of latex paint and leave it to dry for 24 hours.
- Cut the columns for the surround from the fiberboard and fit the front panel of each with a frame of ½ inch flat wood trim and Cyma Reversa wood molding.
- Attach the bridge beam over it with the help of 2 ½ inch long drywall screws.
- Next, use 3 ½ inch long screws to attach the bridge beam to the wall. Fit the columns against the wall.
- Where the columns meet the walls, fill it with paintable latex caulk and paint a coat of paint over the entire fireplace surround.
- To make the fireplace mantel, glue together the crown molding over the fiberboard. Make sure that the crown molding is attached securely to the fiberboard.
- Finally, use construction adhesive to attach the fireplace mantel shelf over the top of the beam. Your fireplace surround is complete.