Framing A Corner Electric Fireplace: A Step-By-Step Guide

how to frame a corner electric fireplace

A corner electric fireplace can add beauty and comfort to a room, especially one that does not have a lot of wall space. If you're looking to build a DIY corner electric fireplace, you'll need to start by measuring the wall space and determining the distances and clearances for your fireplace. You'll then need to cut pieces of wood to the appropriate dimensions and create a frame for the electric fireplace insert to sit within. You can also add a mantel and hidden storage for a more functional and decorative feature.

Characteristics Values
Purpose Add beauty and comfort to a room with limited wall space
Type of fireplace Electric
Installation DIY
Sections Bottom framing for the electric fireplace and mantel, hearth section, upper section for the TV
Materials Wood, shiplap board, brick
Tools Saw, drywall filler, sandpaper, foam roller, paint
Dimensions 6 ft by 8 ft (front), 4 ft 3 inches along each wall (hearth), 33-inch model (firebox)

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Measure wall space and cut wood to size

To measure your wall space, you must first determine the distances and clearances for your fireplace in the corner of your room. Sketch out your fireplace on paper, including the height of the fireplace surround and the remaining TV wall. Plan to work with full shiplap board widths to avoid having to trim any boards, which will make the installation easier and look nicer. The height of the hearth should match the baseboards, and the electric fireplace insert should sit just above the hearth top.

The frame for the TV wall section does not need to reach the ceiling, only up to the bottom of the crown moulding. You will need to measure and purchase the required amount of each material, adding 10-20% to account for any mistakes or variations.

When cutting the wood to size, you will need to cut the pieces that will cover the sides of the fireplace frame. Ensure that any pattern, such as a brick pattern, wraps around the corner seams to create a uniform look.

After cutting the wood to size, you can apply drywall filler on the corner seams and lightly sand the filler to create a smooth finish. You can then prime the fireplace surround with paint to create the desired look.

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Bottom frame for the electric fireplace and mantel

Building a bottom frame for an electric fireplace and mantel can be a fun DIY project. It is important to plan ahead and make sure that you have the right tools and materials. Before you start building, you should determine the distances and clearances for your fireplace and the corner situation. Sketch it out on paper and take detailed measurements for how tall you would like the fireplace surround to be. You should also calculate a 6-inch area for the mantel framing.

When it comes to materials, you will need to purchase the required amount of wood, taking into account the size of your fireplace insert. Make sure to use wood that is strong enough to hold the weight of the fireplace insert, which can be quite heavy. You will also need star-head screws for assembling the frame.

Now, let's get into the step-by-step process:

  • Cut all the pieces of wood to the required size. It is recommended to make all your cuts at once to save time and build momentum.
  • Start assembling the side frames. Use a corner clamp to ensure the outside frame is squared off.
  • Attach the supports to the frame using corner clamps again to ensure they are square.
  • Attach the bottom piece of the mantel plywood to the supports.
  • Secure the horizontal members to one of the outside vertical members, working your way from the bottom to the top of the structure.
  • Finally, secure the other outside vertical member to the horizontals.

Once the bottom frame is complete, you can move on to the next steps of framing the hearth section and the upper section for the TV. Remember to refer to the specific requirements of your electric fireplace insert to ensure a safe and proper installation.

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The hearth section

To build the hearth section, you will need to cut pieces of wood to the appropriate dimensions. For the front of the fireplace, it is recommended to work with full shiplap board widths to avoid having to trim any boards and to achieve a nicer finish. You will also need to ensure that you have the right tools and enough materials for the build.

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Upper section for the TV

When framing a corner electric fireplace, the upper section is designed to accommodate a TV. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations for this section:

Planning and Materials

Before beginning construction, it is essential to plan the layout and dimensions of the upper section. The width of the TV will dictate the width of the upper section and the centre structure. It is recommended to extend the centre structure a few inches beyond the TV on both sides for a balanced look. The height of the TV opening should also be considered, ensuring it aligns with the desired viewing height. The materials required for this section include lumber or wooden studs, screws, drywall, joint compound or drywall mud, drywall tape, and paint.

Framing the Upper Section

The upper section of the corner electric fireplace is typically framed using wooden studs, such as 2x4s or 2x6s. These studs should be secured to the wall and each other using appropriate screws. When framing, ensure that the structure is level and square. If desired, add braces to the front centre of the framed area to provide additional support for the TV mount. Consider the depth of the upper section to accommodate the TV and any desired shelving or decor.

Electrical Considerations

When framing the upper section, it is crucial to consider the electrical requirements for the TV. Ensure there is an electrical outlet nearby to power the TV. Additionally, plan for any communication wires or cables that will be needed for the TV and internet connection. You may also want to add a power strip or create a dedicated outlet within the frame to avoid overloading existing outlets and to conceal wires.

Drywall Installation

After the framing is complete, install drywall on the interior of the TV opening and the front face of the upper section. Use drywall screws to secure the drywall to the studs. To create a seamless finish, apply joint compound or drywall mud to the seams and cover them with drywall tape. For corner seams, use corner drywall tape. Smooth out any excess mud with a taping knife.

Painting and Trimming

Once the drywall installation is complete, you can paint the upper section to match or complement your existing decor. Choose a paint colour and finish that suits your style. Consider adding trim to the corners and the back of the fireplace for a polished look. Trim can be added using lumber or MDF boards, cut to the appropriate size.

By following these steps and considerations, you can effectively frame the upper section of a corner electric fireplace to accommodate a TV, creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing feature in your home.

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Painting and staining

Start by sanding the entire frame using medium-grit sandpaper. This will smooth out any rough edges and prepare the wood for painting or staining. Wipe off the dust with a damp cloth.

Choose either paint or stain, depending on your desired finish. If you're painting the firebox interior, you'll need a heat-resistant specialty paint. Apply an even coat of paint or stain across all surfaces of the frame using a high-quality brush. Allow proper drying time before adding additional coats if needed.

For a smooth coat of paint, use a foam roller, especially if you're trying to mimic the look of brick. A 2-inch paintbrush is suitable for covering larger areas, while a smaller brush is ideal for corners and details. Remember to clean your brushes well after use to prevent dried paint from ruining future projects.

To create a polished look, sand down any rough edges on the frame using sandpaper. Use wood filler to cover any gaps or nail holes, and then sand again after it has dried. Seal the joints where the frame meets the wall with caulk for a seamless appearance.

Frequently asked questions

Here is a basic step-by-step guide:

- Measure the wall space for your corner fireplace.

- Cut pieces of wood to the appropriate dimensions.

- Frame the corner fireplace in 3 sections: the bottom framing for the electric fireplace and mantel, the hearth section, and the upper section where the TV will hang.

- Install the 3 sections.

- Paint and stain the fireplace.

You will need a saw for cutting wood, a screwdriver, and a drill. You will also need a paintbrush and roller for painting and staining.

Consider the size of your wall when choosing the size of your fireplace. If you have a small wall, opt for a smaller fireplace. You can also add a mantel to hold decor and create a cozy, modern farmhouse style.

It is important to clean up dust and dirt before proceeding with the installation. When applying a brick pattern, ensure that the pattern wraps around to avoid a mismatched look.

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