Building a small concrete fireplace is a project that is within reach of most DIYers. To begin, you will need to carefully plan out your design, taking into account your desired dimensions, the positioning, and any necessary code requirements in your area.
Once you have determined the size and placement, you will need to begin the excavation. Depending on your design, this may involve a bit of trenching, or you may simply have to clear away some top soil and vegetation.
Make sure to clearly define the location of your project before proceeding.
Next, you will need to pour a solid foundation to support your structure. Pay extra attention to the footings and make them wide and strong. This will add extra stability and help prevent the fireplace from settling too much.
Using your design as a guide, you will want to install your concrete block forming the walls of your fireplace. Make sure to provide sufficient venting and also take into account any combustible materials nearby.
Make sure to reinforce the corners and other areas of stress.
Finally you will need to create the mantel. This can be assembled using masonry trowel and mortar or can be custom-crafted using a variety of materials. Once the mantel and other decorative pieces are in place, you can finish your fireplace with stucco, stone veneer, or other materials according to taste.
How do you make a faux cement wall?
Making a faux cement wall can be done in a few steps. First, clean the wall and prepare the surface by sanding and smoothing any rough patches. Next, apply a coat of concrete primer to the wall and allow to dry.
Once the primer is dry, mix up a small batch of stucco with Portland cement and water. Begin applying the stucco to the wall with a trowel and then use a damp sponge to smooth the surface and give it a textured look.
A feather trowel can also be used to create a ridged effect. Finally, after the stucco is dry and cured, seal the wall with a sealer to protect it from the elements.
Can you make a faux fireplace?
Yes, you can make a faux fireplace! A faux fireplace can be created from either a piece of furniture or from scratch using basic materials such as foam board, tile, and corrugated cardboard. If using furniture, look for items such as an entertainment center, armoire, or TV stand.
To create a faux fireplace, start by removing the doors and shelves. Then, use foam board to cut out the shape of a fireplace. Cover the foam board with your tile choice and seal with a grout sealer.
For the mantel, you can either make one out of wood or place a piece of furniture such as a plant stand that fits the height you want. Place corrugated cardboard onto the wall behind the fireplace and paint the color of your choice for the brick effect.
Add a gas log insert or electric fireplace for the final touch of your faux fireplace, and you are all set!.
What is the most realistic fake fireplace?
The most realistic fake fireplace is the Dimplex Opti-V Solo Electric Fireplace. This electric fireplace features realistic flames, handcrafted logs and a contemporary design that looks as close to a real fireplace as possible.
With a built-in fan, you can enjoy the look and feel of a real fireplace without having to install or light a real fire. This fireplace is extremely efficient, using up to 60% less energy than a traditional gas fireplace and producing no emissions or smoke.
The patented firebox technology also produces a continuous, full depth flame effect that looks incredibly realistic. Plus, its easy to use with a convenient remote control and an adjustable thermostat to regulate the temperature.
How do you make homemade fake fire?
Making homemade fake fire is a great way to add a realistic effect to a theater production or to make a flame-less campfire for a backyard campout. You can make fake fire using a few simple materials and some creativity.
To make your own fake fire, you will need several red, orange, and yellow tissue paper sheets, a bit of white crepe paper, several colors of paint for the flames and a few other materials. Start by cutting the tissue paper and crepe paper into flame-shaped pieces of varying sizes.
Secure the colors of tissue paper to one another by stacking them in the center and securing them with tape. Twist the ends of each piece of tissue paper slightly to add shape and further create the illusion of flames.
Once the paper flames are ready, use hot glue to attach them to a piece of cardboard. For a convincing look, attach the orange and yellow pieces of tissue paper in the center and the red in the outer edges, creating a gradient of colors.
For a more realistic effect, use paint to lightly add shading and fading on the paper flames.
You will also need fake “wood” logs to sit beneath the “fire. ” To make these, use brown and black paint to color a few cardboard tubes and secure them together with hot glue. Place the logs and the “fire” underneath a light to bring an added luminescence to your fake fire.
Creating an authentic-looking, homemade fake fire is a great way to bring your visions of campfires and fireside stories to life without the heat and flame!
How much does it cost to build a faux fireplace?
The cost of building a faux fireplace can vary greatly, depending on the size, materials, and complexity of the design chosen. Depending on the design, materials that may be used in construction range from recycled wood, brick, stone, or metal, to composite materials such as Styrofoam or high-density foam.
The cost for the materials can range from $80-$500, depending on the size of the faux fireplace and the chosen materials. Hiring a professional to install the faux fireplace may cost an additional $200-$400.
It’s important to factor in installation costs when budgeting for a faux fireplace, and don’t forget to purchase any additional items such as faux mantels, hearths, or surrounds. Overall, the cost of building a faux fireplace ranges between $280-$900.
Are Fake fireplaces a fire hazard?
In general, fake fireplaces are not a fire hazard, as long as they are installed and used properly. Most fake fireplaces are electric, meaning they do not produce any heat or flames, and so they are not considered a fire hazard.
However, it is important to make sure the electric fireplace is installed correctly by a professional. This will ensure that the electric current is properly grounded and that all the wiring is secure.
It will also ensure that the electrical wiring is not exposed to high temperatures. If you install the fireplace correctly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions, it should not be a fire hazard.
It is also important to make sure that there are no flammable objects or materials near the fake fireplace, and that it is not being operated close to any flammable liquids. Additionally, most fake fireplaces come with safety features and guards to prevent accidents from happening.
As long as you use the fireplace responsibly and follow all the instructions that are provided, there should not be any risk of a fire hazard.
What type of cement do you use for fireplace?
The type of cement you should use for a fireplace depends on the type of material you are using and how you plan on using it. Generally, for brick, stone, and other masonry materials, you should use a Type N or Type S mortar cement.
Type N mortar is weaker than Type S but is designed for above grade and non-load bearing walls. Type S mortar is designed for use below grade and for load bearing walls. For concrete, you should use a Type S Portland cement, preferably a high-strength variety.
Additionally, you may need to have additional supplies on hand such as lime and sand, depending on the specific job requirements. Once purchased, mix the mortar cement according to the manufacturer’s directions and use a trowel to fill any joints or cracks in the fireplace.
Can I cover my brick fireplace with concrete?
Yes, you can cover your brick fireplace with concrete. It is a relatively simple process, though some structural reinforcement may be necessary to secure the concrete. First, you’ll need to remove any existing brick or material from the fireplace and make sure that the surface is properly cleaned and prepped.
Next, secure a mesh layer of rebar or other metal rods to the surface to help ensure that the concrete is securely set. You will then need to create a surface mortar mixture and evenly spread that on top of the securing mesh.
After that, you will pour and spread the cement or concrete mixture on the surface and use a trowel to make sure that it is properly leveled. Once that is done, you will need to let the concrete cure, usually for a few days, to ensure that it is properly set.
For best results, you may also need to use an aggregate material or finish with a specialized concrete overlay that is suited for fireplaces.
Will a concrete fireplace crack?
Yes, a concrete fireplace can crack over time with regular use. Cracking usually occurs when the concrete is not installed correctly, or when temperatures in the fireplace’s environment are too extreme.
If the concrete gets too hot, it can cause it to expand and develop small cracks. In addition, if the concrete was not laid properly or the foundations supporting the fireplace were not set on solid ground, then the concrete is more likely to crack due to uneven or unstable surfaces.
It can also be caused by freezing temperatures or shifts in the ground which can cause the foundation to move, leading to cracks in the concrete. To prevent this, it is important to build the fireplace on solid foundations, with appropriately sized and reinforced framing, and to use the right type of concrete and mix when pouring.
Regular maintenance and inspections can help to spot any signs of cracking.
Can concrete be poured over brick?
Yes, it is possible to pour concrete over brick, although there are some considerations to be aware of. It’s important to prepare the brick surface correctly prior to pouring the concrete. To do this, you should use a stiff brush to clean the surface, removing any dirt, debris or loose mortar.
Then the surface should be saturated with water and allowed to dry thoroughly before the concrete is poured. You should also make sure the surface is completely level before pouring, as any imperfections can lead to uneven or weakened concrete.
Finally, a bonding agent should be applied to the brick to ensure the plaster and concrete adhere properly. When these preparations have been made, it’s safe to pour your concrete over the brick.
What can I use to cover up brick fireplace?
One option is to simply add a fresh coat of paint to the existing bricks. This can help to create a new, modern look. You can also choose to install a wood-burning fireplace insert, which will provide extra warmth and efficiency while also making the fireplace more fashionable.
If you are looking for a more permanent solution, you can install a surround made of marble, stone, or tile. Another way to go is to use drywall to completely cover the brick. This is a great option if you’re looking to create a more contemporary, sleek look.
Finally, you can choose to use an attractive removable panel to cover the brick, which would allow you to easily change the look of the fireplace depending on the season or your mood.
What can I cover old brick with?
Depending on the desired outcome. If you’re simply looking to cover up the old brick without changing its appearance, you can paint it with masonry paint. Masonry paint is designed to adhere to the surface of brick and other hard masonry materials, but it won’t significantly alter the look of the brick.
Another option is to use a stucco or acrylic coating, which will provide a different covering and can even act as an insulator, protecting the wall and improving its energy efficiency.
If you want to update the look of the brick, a modern brick veneer can be applied with masonry adhesive. You can also install an actual brick facing, or siding, to create a different look. This involves attaching brick walls to the existing brick wall to give the appearance of a brick exterior.
Another option is to tile over the brick. This can be done with ceramic or porcelain tile, and it’s important to make sure the tile is correctly sealed. Finally, if you want to completely cover up the old brick, a variety of siding materials such as wood, vinyl, and stucco can be installed.
How thick should a concrete slab be for a fireplace?
The thickness of the slab for your fireplace will depend on a few factors, such as the anticipated weight of the fireplace, the anticipated traffic on it, and any other objects that will be supported by the slab.
For example, if the fireplace is to be used for a grill, griddle, or other types of cooking, it will require a thicker slab to support the additional weight and use.
For a standard fireplace installation, two to four inches thick should be sufficient. Any structural support blocks or rebar need to be placed so the lowest point of the framework is at least four inches below the surface.
If the slab is to be used for grilling, it should be between four to six inches thick and any structural blocks or rebar should be placed so the lowest point of the framework is at least six inches below the surface.
In addition to the thickness of the slab, it is important to also ensure an adequate edge-bearing area around the fireplace. This area supports the cantilever loads of the fireplace and should be at least twice the width of the slab.
Furthermore, the edge-bearing area should be well-compacted and have a concrete mix that is at least as strong as the slab.
