Like the topic suggests, our objective is to show you how to build a masonry fireplace.
There are basically three categories of fireplaces; the gas fireplace, masonry fireplace, and factory-built fireplace.
All are designed for and serve the same purpose. Either of these has its unique advantages as well as disadvantages. However, that isn’t the focus.
This guide is all about constructing a masonry fireplace.
Masonry Fireplace Construction Details
If you’re seeking to try out your newfound masonry skills by building a fireplace, then this article will prove invaluable. Whether this is the right approach to take for a homeowner isn’t the point.
Ordinarily, we’d recommend you allow the pros to get the job done.
Are You Willing to DIY?
You should know by now that adopting the DIY option to masonry fireplace building involves getting into the mix of things. In other words, you must be willing to get dirty or strain yourself in the process.
This is inevitable as the process isn’t so pretty. However, your masonry skills must be sharp enough to do a great job.
Building A Masonry Fireplace Step By Step
To build a masonry fireplace, certain things need to be worked out.
These include the materials to be used, construction codes, tools, and the budget. These will have to be obtained well beforehand before construction begins.
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Materials To be Used
To do a great job at masonry construction, you must ensure that the right materials be used. These are basically heat-safe materials like a stone for fireplace exterior, concrete, and cinder blocks (mostly used for support).
You’ll also need to get fire-rated bricks, fire-rated flue pipes, and cement.
These and several other materials must be researched before getting started. By making these materials available, you’re almost ready. You’ll need to now shift your focus to the basic tools necessary.
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Tools
Tools are a must-have for masonry fireplace construction. Such masonry tools are basic for all DIY construction jobs. You may have some of these.
Basic tools include margin trowel, V or square-notch trowel, cold chisel, mason’s hammer, wire brush, jointer, squares, and mason’s level.
Others are straightedge, spalling hammer, boaster, and more. We recommend you get all the basic masonry tools to start with. These should adequately equip you for the task at hand.
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Construction Codes
Construction or building codes for fireplaces exist. You’ll need to check what applies to your location. Here, standard dimensions are given for different parts of the fireplace.
These include the main chamber and hearth design, smoke chamber wall construction, and lintel, throat, and damper construction.
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Budget
The budget encompasses all the other factors mentioned above.
With a budget, you get to align project requirements with available funds. Plus, you’re kept on a task that enhances your chances of success.
Drawing Out A Masonry Fireplace Plan
One basic requirement without which a masonry fireplace construction will be impossible is the plan. The plan captures all that needs to be done on paper well before construction begins.
If you’re new to this whole stuff, consider asking the help of a seasoned professional.
Such a professional provides critical help in drawing out the plan. With such a plan outlined, all you have to do is proceed with implementation.
Laying Out Anticipated Dimensions Around Target Area
It’s assumed that you’ve already drawn your fireplace plan and how you want it to look like. Now, you’ll need to make some real impressions by going over where you wish to locate your fireplace.
Consider putting or making a layout in the actual location to enable you to gain an impression of its look.
Creating the Foundation
One of the primary actions you’ll need to take before building a masonry fireplace is setting out the foundation.
This will involve some digging and leveling before mixing and pouring out your concrete. As for all aspects of fireplace construction, enough attention is given to the foundation to guarantee stability.
The Frame
One of the requirements for building a masonry chimney is by constructing a frame. This is mostly made of lumber. Remember, you need to always refer to your masonry building plan.
This serves as a guide to help avoid mistakes.
Now cut your lumber according to the dimensions provided in your plan and assemble. The frame needs to be built to perfectly align with what’s in the plan. Nails or screws can be used to hold the frame in place.
It should be rigid enough. Now, apply cement to the bottom of the frame after setting it in place.
Now, the normal masonry work is performed by building within or around the frame. You must have some level of experience with masonry work. If you don’t, you should leave it to the experts.
DIY Chimney Construction Isn’t For Everyone
DIY chimney construction may seem like a great idea for many. However, this process is more complicated than you think. It’s best left to those with expertise in this area.
Will DIY masonry fireplace construction save you cost? It will but you must pay the price.
Paying the price in this sense simply means putting in the work needed. Fireplace masonry construction is a lot of work! A significant amount of labor will have to be committed to the process.
So far, we’ve seen that building a fireplace involves a lot of planning. The implementation is labor-intensive as seen above. You need to know that you’re ready for it before moving ahead.
You must have basic masonry skills before you considering this action.
It’s also important to ask for help when you need it. Experts can guide you through this process. However, if an expert must get involved, why not let them carry out the entire fireplace construction process?
This will be less stressful for you. Plus, you can learn a great deal by watching them perform their jobs.