How to Frame a Gas Fireplace Surround?
Framed fireplace surrounds can be an elegant addition to a room. Depending on the style of your home, they can reflect your personality and help you create an attractive focal point in the room. You may also want to add a mantel or other wood decorations to complement the fireplace and surrounding area.
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Before you begin framing, it’s important to determine your home’s interior style and the room where you’ll install your new gas fireplace. You may also need to consider your local building codes. These requirements will impact the overall design of the fireplace, including the location of vents, gas line, and electrical outlets, and how the unit can be framed.
One of the most common materials used for fireplace surrounds is stone. This material is durable and comes in a variety of colors and textures, which allows you to match it with the color scheme in your room.
Granite, travertine and limestone are some of the most popular options for stone surrounds. They come in a variety of colors and are more expensive than other options, but they can add an upscale touch to any fireplace.
Brick is another classic option for fireplace surrounds. It can complement just about any home and is available in a wide range of sizes.
Concrete is another durable and affordable choice for fireplace surrounds, especially in modern interiors. It can be painted or stained to match the color scheme in your room.
Glass is another popular option for fireplace surrounds. It can be found in a variety of styles and colors, and it shimmers with the heat of the flames.
Steel is another versatile option for a fireplace surround. It can be painted to match your home’s style or powder coated for a more industrial look.
You can also purchase a pre-fabricated steel fireplace surround for a relatively low cost. However, you’ll still need to hire a licensed contractor to run the gas line and connect it to your fireplace.
The fireplace will also need a platform to sit on. The platform must be non-combustible and have a non-flammable surface. This will prevent your family from being injured if the fireplace is accidentally pushed against the floor or falls over.
A fireplace platform can be made from a variety of materials, including tile, masonry and cement board. The best place to start is with the manufacturer of your fireplace and their specific instructions for what the platform should be made from.
To begin, you’ll need a pair of hand tools and a saw, such as a circular saw or jigsaw. You can also use a power miter box, but it’s more convenient to cut angles by hand.
Before you begin framing, measure your fireplace opening. Ensure it is large enough to accommodate the size of your gas fireplace and will not be a safety hazard.
When completing the frame, be sure to leave enough space to allow for ventilation, clearances for combustibles and an appropriate thickness of finishing material. Many installations use drywall, but you can opt for tile or stone veneers instead.