Building A Raised Fireplace Hearth

Fireplaces have been used for centuries to provide warmth and ambience in homes. A raised hearth is a great way to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your fireplace, and to make it safer and more efficient. Here are the essential steps for building a raised fireplace hearth:

1. Determine the size and shape of the hearth. The hearth should be large enough to accommodate the fireplace opening, and it should extend at least 12 inches beyond the opening on all sides. The shape of the hearth can be rectangular, square, or round.

2. Prepare the subfloor. The subfloor should be level and strong enough to support the weight of the hearth. If the subfloor is not level, you will need to level it using a self-leveling compound or shims.

3. Build the frame. The frame of the hearth will be made of 2x4s or 2x6s. The frame should be constructed in a square or rectangular shape, and it should be slightly smaller than the size of the hearth. The frame should be attached to the subfloor using screws or nails.

4. Install the hearth base. The hearth base is made of a non-combustible material, such as concrete board or cement backer board. The hearth base should be cut to fit the frame, and it should be attached to the frame using screws or nails.

5. Install the hearth facing. The hearth facing is the material that will be visible on the surface of the hearth. The hearth facing can be made of a variety of materials, such as tile, stone, or brick. The hearth facing should be cut to fit the hearth base, and it should be attached to the hearth base using thin-set mortar or adhesive.

6. Seal the hearth. Once the hearth facing is installed, it should be sealed to protect it from moisture and stains. The hearth can be sealed using a penetrating sealer or a topical sealer.

7. Enjoy your new raised fireplace hearth! Your new raised fireplace hearth will be a beautiful and functional addition to your home.