Building shelves either side of a fireplace is an easy way to add both functional and aesthetic value to a room. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to build shelves either side of a fireplace:
1. Measure the wall space either side of the fireplace to determine the size and shape of the shelves you want to build.
2. Gather the necessary materials you will need to construct the shelves. These materials include 2×4 lumber, a saw, a drill, screws, shelf supports, shelves boards, and a level.
3. Cut the lumber to the desired length to create the frame for the shelves. Then drill pilot holes into the lumber pieces and use screws to join them together until you have a rectangular frame.
4. Attach the shelf supports to the frame. Then attach the shelf boards to the supports.
5. Place the shelf frame against the wall either side of the fireplace and affix it securely to the wall with a drill.
6. Check with a level to make sure the frames are even and secure before finally attaching the shelves boards.
7. Decorate the shelves with items like picture frames, candles, and vases.
By following this guide, you can add stylish and practical storage to any room with a fireplace.
How deep are cabinets around fireplace?
The depth of cabinets around a fireplace varies depending on the size of the fireplace and the layout of the room. Generally, the depth of cabinets around a fireplace should be in proportion to the size of the fireplace; for a small fireplace, 8-10 inches is usually ideal, while for a medium or large fireplace, 12-14 inches is more suitable.
If styling is an issue, then deeper cabinets may be necessary to ensure that the fireplace is not overwhelmed visually by the cabinets. When deciding on the depth of the cabinets, the size of the room, the relative size of the fireplace, and the desired styling should all be taken into account.
Additionally, the length of the hearth should also be taken into consideration as the cabinets should not be placed so close to the fireplace as to make it difficult to reach the hearth.
How do you make a fireplace look built in?
Making a fireplace look built-in can be done in a few different ways. The first way to approach this is to build a frame or surround around the fireplace. This frame should be designed to blend in with the wall and the rest of the room’s decor.
One of the best ways to make the fireplace look built-in is to construct a stone or brick façade on the outside of the fireplace. This will make it look like the fireplace is really built into the wall and will add a bit of sophistication to the area.
Another way to make the fireplace look built-in is to add shelves or cabinetry that surrounds it. This will create the feeling of a mantel, making the fireplace look like it has been there for years.
Finally, painting the bricks or stones the same color as the walls will also help give the illusion that the fireplace is part of the house.
Can you put a bookcase next to a fireplace?
Yes, you can put a bookcase next to a fireplace. To ensure the safety of your belongings, place the bookcase a safe distance away so the items stored do not get too hot. Depending on what type of fireplace you have – gas, electric, etc.
– you will want to ensure it is properly ventilated, and the bookcase is far enough away where the heat and exhaust won’t cause any damage to your items. If you are using an electric fireplace, make sure to check the instructions to ensure there is sufficient clearance as directed by the manufacturer before placing the bookcase.
Being mindful of the type, size, and material of your bookcase is important. Consider the height, weight of the bookcase in combination with the material, so the heat does not cause warping or other damage.
If the bookcase is too heavy, consider securing the bookcase to the wall to provide stability. Lastly, you can use a fireplace screen to direct the heat away from the bookcase.
Can you put a TV on the wall above an open fire?
No, you should not put a television above an open fire. This is a major safety hazard, as it can cause the television to overheat and potentially catch fire, resulting in significant damage to your home and potential danger to you and your family.
To be on the safe side, try and put the television as far away from the open fire as possible, or even better, have it in a different room altogether. In addition to the potential fire hazard, the heat and smoke from the fire can damage the electronics of the television and reduce its lifespan.
How do you decorate a fireplace with shelves?
Decorating a fireplace with shelves is a great way to upgrade its look and add space to a room. The shelves can be used to display photos, treasures, books, and other decorative items. Before adding shelves to a fireplace, it is important to consider the size, layout, and design of the fireplace.
The shelf material should match the other materials used in the fireplace.
Here are some steps to decorating a fireplace with shelves:
1. Measure the area around the fireplace. Measure the width, height, and depth of the area where the shelves will go. Make sure there’s enough space for a shelf and other items that may be placed on it.
2. Look for the pre-assembled shelf units or build a shelf from basic boards. Pre-assembled shelf units are easy to install and come in various sizes, shapes, and colors. However, if you want to customize the shelves to match the size and style of the fireplace, you can build a shelf by following a few steps.
3. Secure the shelf to the wall with wall anchors. Use a level to make sure the shelf is even.
4. Decorate the shelf with pictures, candles, and other decorative items that match the style of the room.
By following these steps, a fireplace can be easily decorated with shelves. Shelves can provide extra storage space, showcase items, and add visual interest to the room.
Should Trim be same color as built in?
Trim color should be chosen to complement the built-in color. Ideally, trim should create an attractive contrast against the built-in color without creating a jarring impression. For instance, if you have a built-in with soft green or yellow tones, consider selecting white or off-white trim to add brightness and definition.
If you have dark wood built-in cabinets, consider selecting a light gray or beige trim to draw attention to the built-in’s unique grain pattern. Alternatively, consider selecting a trim color that is the same as that of the built-in to provide a uniform and harmonious look to the space.
In this case, ensure the trim color is applied uniformly throughout the entire space, including doors, baseboards, and any other details, so as to create cohesion.
How close can a wood mantel be to a fireplace?
The clearance between any wood mantel and a fireplace should be at least 6″. Depending on the type of fireplace and mantel material, the clearance may need to be as much as 8-10″ as a safety precaution.
This is to ensure that the mantel does not overheat and potentially catch fire due to being too close to the firebox or exhaust system. It is also important to note that the mantel should not be in contact with any of the components of the fireplace and should never be used to support any other objects.
Additionally, the mantel should not be so close that it obstructs the airway of the exhaust system. Lastly, the mantel should not be installed directly over the firebox as this could cause heat to accumulate in the mantel and become a safety hazard.
Therefore, it is important to always install the mantel at least 6″ away.
How much space should be between mantle and fireplace?
When installing a fireplace mantel, it is important to ensure there is sufficient space between the fireplace and mantle. The clearance required depends on the size, type, and material of both the mantle and fireplace.
Generally, there needs to be at least 6 inches of clearance between the fireplace and mantel. However, combustible materials must have at least 12 inches of clearance, while mantels with decorative finishes or special trim need at least 20 inches of clearance.
It is also important to ensure the ceiling above the mantle is at least 2 inches away to prevent heat damage or fire altogether. To be sure that your mantle and fireplace are safely installed, it is best to consult with a professional or follow the instructions provided in the manual of your fireplace and mantel.
What is code for a wood burning fireplace?
The code for a wood burning fireplace will depend on the specific location and may vary by city, county, or country. Generally, a wood burning fireplace must meet certain safety standards, especially when it is connected to a house’s ventilation system.
In many cases, this requires a specific type of listed, or approved, fireplace or stove, as well as specific types of combustible material that may be used, such as seasoned hardwood. In addition, a permit may be required before installation, and the manufacturer’s instructions must be followed.
As such, it is important to check with local authorities before beginning any installation of a wood burning fireplace.
How far does a fireplace stick out from the wall?
The amount that a fireplace sticks out from the wall can vary depending on the type of fireplace. For a traditional masonry or prefabricated metal fireplace, the typical depth of the firebox is about 16 inches.
However, this can be closer to 10-12 inches depending on the construction. For a wood stove or other insert fireplaces, the depth of the firebox can be anywhere from 5-12 inches. The overall protrusion of the fireplace into the living space depends on other elements such as the hearth and mantel.
A tiled hearth of 8-10 inches in depth and the thickness of the mantel can both contribute to the overall protrusion and amount of space that a fireplace sticks out from the wall.
How much space does a fireplace need?
The amount of space needed for a fireplace depends on the type and style of fireplace being installed. For example, with a traditional wood-burning fireplace, you need to factor in at least 3′ of clearance from combustible materials (such as wood or drywall) to ensure safe operation.
You will also need adequate room to accommodate the size of the fireplace as well as the chimney or flue. For gas fireplaces, you may need less room since they don’t require a chimney flue and could be installed directly against an exterior wall.
In addition, many gas fireplaces are available as zero-clearance units, which means they can be installed closer to the combustible materials in the surrounding area. However, you should always check your local building codes and the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure you follow the safety guidelines when selecting and installing any type of fireplace.
How much clearance do you need for a gas fireplace?
When installing a gas fireplace, the amount of clearance needed depends on the particular model and the manufacturer’s specific requirements. Generally speaking, the average amount of space needed to install the fireplace and provide proper ventilation is a minimum of 3 feet (1 meter) from any combustible surface such as walls, furniture, carpets, wallpaper, curtains and flooring.
Additionally, the manufacturer may require more clearance due to specific safety risks associated with the type of gas fireplace being installed, such as open fronted units.
In some cases, the wall material may need to be changed to a non-combustible material. This is often recommended around the area of the firebox and vent system. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions, as failure to do so could potentially result in a fire hazard or other safety concerns.
Also, there should be at least 18 inches of vertical space between the top of the firebox and the combustible ceiling or other overhead surface materials.
In summary, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the fireplace is installed correctly and meets all safety requirements. This will help to prevent any potential fire or other safety hazards.
Can you have a fireplace on an interior wall?
Yes, you can have a fireplace on an interior wall. This can be a great design feature and add warmth to a room. When constructing a fireplace on an interior wall, there are several considerations to keep in mind.
Firstly, a certified contractor should always be consulted to ensure that the installation is structurally sound and will not adversely affect the home’s structural integrity. The contractor should also ensure that all safety rules and regulations are met and follow all local, state, and national codes.
When installing the fireplace on the interior wall, proper ventilation is necessary to avoid problems such as smoke and carbon monoxide entering the home. Therefore, there should be an exhaust hood in place to direct smoke away from the home as well as a chimney to efficiently expel any toxic gases.
The contractor should also take into account the size of the fireplace, examining the interior wall, to ensure it’s wide enough to contain the appliance, otherwise the wall may need to be widened.
In some cases, it may be necessary to insulate the wall to prevent the escape of heat and reduce the chance of the heat damaging the wall materials. This is particularly true for gas fireplaces and stoves, as they can produce a large amount of heat and the insulation will help protect both the wall and the home from potential damage.
Overall, installing a fireplace on an interior wall is a great way to add warmth to a room, but in order to ensure a safe and successful installation, consulting with a certified contractor and following all safety rules and regulations is necessary.
What is material for fireplace surround?
When considering what material is best for your fireplace surround, you should think about several factors. Aesthetics are likely the most important factor, but functionality, compatibility with the heating system, cost, and maintenance requirements should also be taken into consideration.
Aesthetically speaking, wood is a popular and classic choice for fire surrounds. There are a variety of hardwoods and softwoods that bring a natural look to a home and can be sanded, stained, or painted to match a certain design.
For a more modern appearance, brick, stone, and concrete are popular alternatives to wood. They come in a variety of colors and can be combined in interesting patterns. For a more contemporary look, metal fireplaces are rising in popularity.
They come in a variety of shapes and materials and can be more durable than wood alternatives.
When looking for a fireplace surround, you should also consider the compatibility with the heating system. Some materials can be placed closer to the fireplace and heat source than others, so you should make sure that the material you select is one that is rated for the temperature your fireplace produces.
Additionally, you should make sure that the material you choose is resistant to warping, cracking and other damage that could occur from long-term exposure to heat and flame.
The cost of materials for a fireplace surround is also a factor to consider. Wood is often the most affordable option, although there are many other materials that can combine accessibility with style.
Stone surrounds are more expensive, but typically last longer, while metal can be more expensive up-front but require less maintenance over its lifetime.
Finally, when looking at materials for your fireplace surround, you should consider the maintenance required to keep it looking its best. Wood requires more maintenance over the years, such as refinishing, while stone and metal will require more regular cleaning.
When choosing the right material for your fireplace surround, you should consider all of these factors to ensure you select the best material for your home and style.
What are the latest trends in fireplaces?
The latest trends in fireplaces are all about creating an environment that adds to the decor of any room. More people are choosing to use their fireplaces for style and ambiance related purposes, utilizing them as a focal point for their home.
Contemporary fireplaces are becoming increasingly popular; this includes designs such as linear and wall-mounted fireplaces. These modern designs are perfect for the minimalist style, which is the current trend among many homeowners.
Additionally, electric fireplaces have become quite popular, due to their ease of use and installation. They don’t require venting and can be hung or recessed for a seamless look.
Another increasingly popular option are outdoor fireplaces. Outdoor fireplaces add a cozy and luxurious touch to your outdoor living space with an atmosphere of warmth and romance. Custom fire pits in the shape of squares, rectangles, and circles are popular these days, as are fire tables, which are like regular fire pits, but the fire is contained in a table that doubles as a living area.
No matter your preferences, there are a range of different fireplaces and fire pits that can bring warmth and style to any home.
What type of fireplace is most popular?
The most popular type of fireplace is gas fireplaces. Gas fireplaces provide the warmth and coziness of a traditional wood-burning fireplace without the mess and hassle of chopping and periodically stocking wood.
They are energy-efficient, giving home and business owners the ability to control the amount heat they’d like to have, as well as the beautiful visual ambiance that provides a comfortable atmosphere.
Gas fireplaces are also a popular option since they require almost no maintenance and they can be easily converted to a different fuel type if necessary.
How do I choose a fireplace surround?
Choosing the right fireplace surround for your home can be a daunting task. There are many options to choose from, including materials, colors, and styles. Here are some helpful tips to narrow down your choices and make the process easier:
1. Consider the overall style of your home. If you have a more traditional home, opt for a surround made from wood, stone, or metal with decorative accents like carvings. If your home is more modern, look for a sleek mantel with a simple design.
2. Think about color. Depending on the look you’re going for, you may want a bright and bold surround or something more subtle. Make sure to consider the walls and other decor in the room to determine what color would best complement the space.
3. Measure the size of the fireplace. Measure the width and height of the fireplace, and consider how much additional space you may want around it. This will help you to determine the size of surround you need.
4. Determine your budget. Fireplace surrounds come in a variety of price ranges. Before you begin shopping, decide how much you can afford to spend so you can narrow down your options.
5. Ask for help. If you’re feeling overwhelmed with the selection of fireplace surrounds, don’t hesitate to ask a salesperson for assistance. They can help you to find the perfect surround to fit your budget and style.
What is the tile to use around a fireplace?
When selecting the tile to use around a fireplace, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. First, the tile should be a non-combustible material such as ceramic, stone, quarry, marble, granite, or glass.
These tiles can be found in a variety of colours, styles, and shapes to match the décor of any room. It is also important to choose a tile that can withstand extreme temperatures, as fireplaces can get very hot due to hot air rising from the fireplace.
Additionally, it is recommended to pick a tile with a matte finish, as it will best reflect the light from the fire and create a cozy atmosphere. Lastly, for safety reasons, it is best to avoid tiles with too much texture, as these can become slippery when wet.
With a wide range of options available, it can be easy to find the perfect tile to surround your fireplace.