The journey to building a gas fireplace from beginning to end is long and tiring. One thing I learned though, is how much fun it can be once it’s done! And maybe you’ll learn something along the way as well.
I live in a small apartment, which works well for just me and my roommate. However, it doesn’t make up for a lack of some essentials (a quiet space to relax, outdoor space, how to frame a fireplace for stone how to frame a gas fireplace surround storage space, etc). After years of on-and-off trying to find the right spot in the apartment where I could have a gas fireplace that wouldn’t disturb or heat up my house, I decided that enough was enough.
How to build a gas fireplace
If you’re planning to build a stone fireplace, you’ll need to frame the opening for the fireplace and support the stones that will surround it.
The framing process is simple, but there are a few things to keep in mind. This article will take you through everything from building a fireplace frame out of wood to installing decorative stone veneer over the structure.
In this article:
How to frame a gas fireplace surround
Frame the opening for your gas fireplace according to local building code requirements and install an exterior firebox. You can do this by yourself or hire someone with experience in framing and masonry work. Here’s what you need to know:
Frame Is Necessary For Fire Safety
A solid masonry structure must be built around gas fireplaces according to local codes, which vary from place to place and state by state. This is necessary because gas fires can produce high temperatures (upwards of 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit) that would melt or burn through standard sheetrock walls if they weren’t protected properly. The firebox also helps prevent carbon monoxide from leaking into living spaces during operation. The masonry enclosure prevents it from spreading through gaps in your home’s foundation walls or basement floor, where it could cause serious health problems for you
If you are looking for a fireplace that is both functional and beautiful, consider building your own gas fireplace surround. It will look fantastic in any room of the house and can be customized to fit your needs.
Step 1: Determine Location
The first step in building a gas fireplace surround is to determine where on your property you want to put it. You should make sure that there is enough space for the fireplace and that you will be able to run all of the necessary gas lines. A gas fireplace works best when it’s close to the wall, so keep this in mind when deciding where to place yours.
Step 2: Build the Firebox
Once you’ve decided where to place your new gas fireplace, it’s time to start building! The first thing you will want to do is build a firebox out of masonry blocks or bricks. You can also use concrete blocks if they are large enough, but they may not look as good as brick or stone blocks would with your finished product. Make sure that you leave enough room around each side of the firebox so that there is room for insulation later on down the road.
Step 3: Frame Around the Firebox
Next up is framing around
The construction of a gas fireplace is not very different from that of a wood-burning fireplace. The main difference is that you will need to install a natural gas line and gas logs, as well as electrical wiring for the lighting fixtures and blower fan.
The first step in installing a gas fireplace is to frame out the opening for it with 2x4s or 2x6s. The framing can be made directly on top of the existing masonry or over a concrete foundation slab, as long as there are no obstructions such as floor joists or other utilities underneath the opening. The frame should be built sturdy enough to support the weight of the stone hearth and mantelpiece above it. In addition, it should be strong enough to support any load from above if you plan on placing furniture against it (such as sofas and armchairs).
Next, attach metal stud plates along all four sides of the opening using screws. These stud plates will help keep everything square during installation by providing an anchor point for attaching other parts of your fireplace surround.
Once all four sides are secured with stud plates, attach two additional plates along each side so that they extend over one inch past the inside edge of each side plate (i
If you want to add a fireplace to your home, you may find that the cost of hiring a contractor to build it is more than you want to spend. Luckily, it’s not hard to build your own gas fireplace, and it can be an inexpensive project.
Step 1: Build a Frame
To frame a gas fireplace, you will need:
Cement blocks (about 10 blocks)
A flat piece of wood, 24 inches long and 12 inches wide (a 2×6 piece of lumber works well)
2 hinges and 2 screws per hinge (for attaching the door)
An L-shaped metal bracket with two holes drilled into it (#10 screws work best for this)
A metal corner bracket or angle bracket with two holes drilled into it (#10 screws work best for this)
If you’re building a gas fireplace, you’ll need some basic tools and materials. First, measure the space where you want to install your fireplace. Take note of the height, width and depth of the area. Then, gather supplies such as:
Framing materials: Plywood or OSB sheathing, 2×4 or 2×6 lumber and 4-inch wood screws
Stone veneer or brick veneer: To cover the back of your fireplace wall with stone or brick veneer, you’ll need masonry cement between each course of stone or brick. You can also use this material to fill in gaps between stones or bricks that aren’t perfectly aligned.