Fireplace Surround
From "Trim Carpentry"
By:
Handyman Club Library
Online Rating:
  (7/10) Nothing sparks conversation like a crackling fire. For those times when there's no fire in the hearth, your fireplace can still be the focal point of the room if it's outfitted with an attractive fireplace surround. Aside from adding visual appeal, you might also want to replace your existing fireplace surround if you've just installed new casings or wainscot and the fireplace surround no longer matches the wood type or style of the rest of the trimwork. The fireplace surround we'll build on the next few pages is a project you can tackle with basic trim carpentry skills. You'll also need a table saw, power miter saw, router table and a jig for drilling dowel joints. A couple of quick definitions: All of the woodwork that surrounds the opening of a fireplace is considered the mantel—not just the ledge that runs along the top. The vertical, column-like trim pieces on each side of the firebox are called pilasters, and the horizontal surface immediately above the firebox is the frieze. Notice in the surround featured here that the frieze consists of three rails. The reason for the gaps between rails is to provide room for the rails to expand and contract across the grain—especially the wide center rail. If you build this surround according to the dimensions given in the cutting list, the opening will measure 42 in. tall and 50 in. wide. Adjust the part lengths as needed to suit your fireplace size. Be sure to check the building codes in your area to see that these dimensions conform to setback regulations for attaching combustible material around a fireplace. Usually, there needs to be 6 to 12 in. between the firebox opening and the surrounding woodwork. Codes may also specify how far the mantel shelf must be kept away from the firebox opening. This distance may vary, depending on the amount the mantel shelf overhangs the firebox. |