The hearth protects your flooring and walls from fire. Most hearths are bricked boxes that have few stylistic qualities unless you take the time to add them. The functionality, after all, is what the builder is going for. Consider building your own hearth for the fireplace if you’re looking for something uniquely yours and have a few ideas in mind. Today we’re going to give you step by step instructions on how to build your own hearth for your fireplace.
Tools and Materials You Will Need
- Safety Goggles
- Hammer or Screwdriver
- Nails or Screws
- Tile, Brick, or Natural Stone
- Tile Cutter or Chisel
- Grout
- Plywood
- Cement Board
- 2x4s
- Circular Saw or Table Saw
Know the Code
The very first thing you need to know is what the building code says about hearths and fireplaces. Check both the national and local building codes to make sure you’re building your hearth in a way that meets or exceeds both. Tearing it down once you’re completed is the last thing you want!
Thorough Planning
Proper and thorough planning is the most important part of any project. You’ve heard builders use the phrase, “measure twice, cut once,” as an indication of the importance of ensuring the correct measurements for a project. The same can be said with this particular project. Make sure your plans meet code, and then plan more.
Building the Platform
Once you’ve planned and purchased the required tools and materials, it’s time to start building. Cut the boards and plywood for the frame using a circular saw or table saw, and assemble them as you’ve planned. We can’t really get very specific here because we don’t know your plans!
Attach the Cement Board
Cement board is an excellent material for protecting your plywood and wood frame, but it’s also the perfect underlying board for laying tile. Builders use it in bathrooms and kitchens where tile is to be laid, too. Cement board provides a perfectly flat fireproof surface and acts as insulation between the tile and the wooden platform.
Lay the Tile
Whether you’re using tile, brick, or natural stone, this is where the beauty happens. Cut the tile or chisel the rock and dry fit it before using grout or cement. Create an elaborate masterpiece or a simple solution; it’s entirely up to you.
The Finishing Touches
You can add personalized finishing touches after the tile, brick, or stone has been put into place. Some of the most amazing hearths we’ve seen have been lovingly hand made by the homeowner. You can allow your children to put their handprints into the wet cement, and then date it. Or use special river rock that you’ve collected on hiking trips, shells you’ve collected from the beach, or other nonflammable items that are special to you.
Fireplace Safety and Chimney Inspections in Frazer
We have two CSIA Certified chimney sweeps standing by to assist you with your chimney needs. Give us a call at 610-626-2439 to schedule an appointment for a chimney inspection or cleaning. We provide chimney services throughout Frazer and the Main Line region.