How To Build Electric Fireplace Surround

How to Build an Electric Fireplace Surround

An electric fireplace can be a cozy and stylish addition to any room. While many electric fireplaces come with a pre-made surround, building your own custom surround allows you to create a truly unique focal point for your space. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step breakdown of how to build an electric fireplace surround, empowering you to create a beautiful and functional addition to your home.

Planning and Preparation

Before beginning construction, it's crucial to plan and prepare thoroughly. This step involves several important considerations:

Choose a style: Determine the style you want for your fireplace surround. Consider the overall aesthetic of your room, your personal preferences, and the size and shape of the electric fireplace unit. Popular styles include traditional, modern, rustic, and farmhouse.
Select materials: Explore different materials for the surround, taking into account factors like budget, desired aesthetic, and ease of workability. Some popular options include wood, stone, brick, drywall, and molding.
Measure and design: Accurately measure the dimensions of your electric fireplace unit and the surrounding wall space. Sketch a detailed design plan, including the height, width, and depth of the surround, as well as any decorative elements or shelves.
Gather tools and materials: Based on your chosen materials and design, collect all necessary tools, including a saw, drill, hammer, level, tape measure, safety goggles, and appropriate fasteners.

Constructing the Surround

Once you have a clear plan and the necessary materials, you can begin constructing the surround. Here's a general guide for building a simple surround using wood:

Build the frame: Cut wooden boards to the desired dimensions of your surround's frame. Using wood glue and screws, assemble the frame and attach it securely to the wall. Ensure the frame is level and plumb.
Add interior panels: If desired, create a decorative interior panel to frame the electric fireplace. Cut wood panels to fit inside the frame, leaving space for the fireplace unit's dimensions. Attach the panels to the frame using wood glue and screws.
Install the fireplace unit: Once the frame and panels are complete, carefully place the electric fireplace unit inside the opening you've created. Secure it to the frame using appropriate brackets or mounting hardware.
Add finishing touches: Apply decorative elements like crown molding, trim, or shelf brackets to enhance the aesthetic of the surround. Paint or stain the wood to achieve your desired finish.

Variations and Customization

The basic framework outlined above serves as a starting point. You can customize the design and materials to create a unique fireplace surround. Here are some examples:

Using Stone or Brick

You can use stone or brick to create a more rustic or traditional fireplace surround. Consider using a mortar mix to adhere the stone or brick to the frame. You can also use a stone veneer for a lighter and easier-to-install option.

Adding Shelves or Mantel

Building in shelves or a mantel provides additional storage and display space. Create shelves by cutting and attaching wooden boards to the surround's frame. A mantel can be constructed using a piece of wood or a decorative stone slab.

Using Drywall and Molding

For a more streamlined and modern look, you can use drywall and molding to create the surround. Apply drywall to the frame, ensuring to tape and mud the seams smoothly. Then, add decorative molding to create a finished look. This approach provides a clean and simple design.

Remember to carefully plan the design and materials for your electric fireplace surround. By taking your time and following these steps, you can create a beautiful and custom-fit focal point for your home.