The fireplace has always been a symbol of warmth and comfort. The hearth was equipped in chic palaces, and in small castles, and in cozy estates. A prerequisite for a fireplace is a chimney, which cannot be done in a modern standard apartment. Depending on the wealth of the owners of the home, they decorated the fireplace with marble, stone or other refractory materials.
But do those who live in apartment buildings without a chimney have to forget about the hearth? Not at all - a modern alternative to an old fireplace is an artificial fireplace portal - a design that imitates a real home. But here the question arises: how to arrange a decorative fireplace in the apartment? Do you use traditional materials for this or can you show imagination and creativity?
Fireplace in the interior of the apartment
Modern high-rise buildings do not provide for chimneys in their design for arranging existing fireplaces, which would serve as a source of heat. If the goal is to heat the home and replace heating radiators, then this task is quite realistic with the help of an electric fireplace - a device that runs on environmentally friendly fuel. Such a "toy" produces a real flame without smoke and is very popular with overseas designers. An electric fireplace is often built into a specially equipped portal, creating the effect of a real hearth.
But for a decorative effect, they often equip a fireplace portal or a false fireplace - a structure that looks like a real fireplace, but without a chimney and the ability to make a fire. A niche can be decorated in different ways: put candles or vases with flowers, paste over with mirror tiles or lay out a stack of real logs - it all depends on the designer's imagination and limited budget.
Types and features of false fireplaces
The design and choice of materials depends on the type of fireplace chosen. In modern architecture, reliable, conditional and symbolic fireplaces are distinguished.
Reliable
A reliable fireplace is the most similar to a real one, imitating the shape and appearance of the hearth so well that an uninformed guest will not immediately see the difference. The difference between a real fireplace and a real one is the absence of a chimney. Such models of false fireplaces are often made to order, since decorative materials require special processing: metal, stone, tile, porcelain stoneware, plaster.
In the niche of such an artificial fireplace, it is allowed to install an electric fireplace or a burner that runs on environmentally friendly fuel.
Only a reliable false fireplace can maximally replace a real hearth, both in appearance and in functionality. But it is he who is also the most expensive among all types.
Conditional
It is also possible to create an artificial hearth in an apartment with the help of a conditional false fireplace - a small structure on a wall made of a metal frame and sheathed with drywall or plywood. This option does not provide for the installation of an electric fireplace inside, which means it does not require great depth - 20 cm will be quite sufficient. And a mirror glued to the back wall of the niche of the fireplace portal will create visual depth.
Another option to “deepen” a niche is to paint the wall black and install candlesticks, decorative candles and other little things in it.
Outside, such a portal is decorated with plaster, tiles, tiles, wood, moldings and stucco molding so as to bring the appearance as close as possible to a real fireplace.
Symbolic
Another way to create a feeling of home comfort in an apartment, while without unnecessary financial and time costs, is a symbolic fireplace. Simply put, the outlines of a fireplace are created on the wall either with the help of a drawing, or ceiling moldings, or some other decorative elements. Of course, we are not talking about any volume in this case, the decorative element creates only the right atmosphere, but you can do it yourself, without resorting to the services of professionals.
How to make a fake fireplace yourself
Of course, the simplest solution, both in terms of budget and labor costs, will be the arrangement of a symbolic or painted fireplace.
First of all, determine the place where the drawn element will be located. Measure the height and width of the decoration, it is better to immediately draw with a pencil on the wall. Now think about the design: whether it will be straight or curved lines drawn with paints, or the outlines will be decorated using molding. His role may be:
- ceiling or floor plinth,
- wooden rail,
- plaster molding,
- beautiful door frame.
On top of the whole structure, you can hang a narrow shelf the width of the fireplace, which will serve as a stand for photographs, candlesticks or other cute trinkets.
Making a homemade false fireplace with your own hands is not at all difficult, as it may seem at first. The main thing is the ability to handle a hacksaw or a jigsaw, a screwdriver and a tape measure.
The first step is to decide what material the fireplace portal will be made of. It is easier and cheaper to make it from a metal profile and sheathe it with drywall or MDF (PVC) panels. But you can use bricks or foam blocks.
Next, a decision is made on the shape and size of the decorative stove. If you create a structure that completely imitates a real fireplace, you will have to select a significant part of the wall, since a real hearth consists of two parts: a chimney and a firebox. If it is decided to decorate the space above the portal in a different way or allocate it for other needs, then you can stop only at mounting the lower part of the hearth.
For work you will need materials and tools:
- Drywall 12 mm thick;
- Metallic profile;
- Roulette or ruler;
- Marking pencil;
- The tool that you plan to cut drywall with. Usually this is a construction knife;
- Metal shears for metal profiles;
- Self-tapping screws for metal;
- Metal corner;
- Screwdriver.
For finishing the fireplace portal, do not forget to purchase putty and spatulas, perforated tape to strengthen the seams. Also, depending on the decorative finish, a primer may be needed.
The installation of the hearth consists of several important steps.
- We draw a sketch of the future product and put down all the necessary dimensions (they depend on the dimensions of the room in which the hearth is assembled). We calculate how many materials will be needed and which ones. We transfer all the markup to the wall in order to have a visual representation of the design.
- Using metal scissors, we cut the frame parts from a metal profile and try them on the wall. We mount the frame using self-tapping screws.
- We cut the necessary trim parts from drywall and also fasten them to the frame with self-tapping screws. Do not forget to remove the chamfer before installation.
- We seal all the caps of the screws and seams with putty (after gluing them with perforated tape). Let the mixture dry.
- We clean the surface with sandpaper and primer before decorative finishing.
You can use one of the following as a schema:
Of course, any element that appears in the room should match the style and mood of the interior, and not seem superfluous.
It is not necessary to decorate the fireplace portal in the Provence room with a brutal dark brick. Or use an aged brick in a modern interior - such too bold experiments can only be afforded by experienced designers who know how to play with space.
A plasterboard fireplace portal is easily decorated with polyurethane moldings, moldings, wood or MDF panels, plaster or stone. The choice of material also depends on the purpose of the fireplace.
If an electric burner is inserted into the false fireplace, then refractory materials are selected for decoration: tiles, bricks, stone. In all other cases, the decoration is dictated by the style of the room itself.
Each finishing material has its pros and cons. Let's consider each of them.
- Decorative brick or stone. The most suitable material for finishing an existing fireplace is brick or decorative refractory stone. The portal itself is also laid out of brick. in this case, it is necessary to provide a small brick "cushion" under the entire structure. In principle, if the bricks are laid neatly, then finishing can be abandoned if the appearance fits into the style of the room. Bricks are simply coated with a protective agent or tinted. If the brick acts as a building material, then it is better to use a refractory stone to finish the existing fireplace.
- MDF boards. For decorating fireplace portals, such material is used quite rarely. Firstly, because of the appearance - such plates often imitate the texture and pattern of wood, but who makes fireplaces out of wood? Secondly, even if you pick up a pattern that looks like brick or masonry, MDF slabs lose in price to the same ceramic tiles or plaster.
- Wood. A warm and natural material often used in classic or rustic styles. It can be a smooth polished and varnished wood or deliberately rough, with the effect of aging in a Provence living room. Most often, the top shelf of false fireplaces is made of wood.
- Ceramic tiles or porcelain tiles. One of the universal materials is ceramic tile or porcelain stoneware. The first advantage is the affordable price. In principle, from a wide range of modern ceramic tiles, you can choose the one that suits both in color, and in texture, and in style. The second advantage is resistance to high temperatures, which is important for the design of an existing fireplace. But along with refractory tiles, you also need to use a special heat-resistant adhesive.
- Mosaic. Another suitable material for decorating a fireplace portal is mosaic. In turn, it can also be made of glass, ceramics, mirror or wooden elements. There are even individual specimens made from natural materials - sea pebbles, shell rock, marble or granite. Already from the mosaic, you can choose any one that meets the highest requirements, as well as combine several types, creating patterns and ornaments.
- Marble. This environmentally friendly material has proven itself in the construction industry. No wonder the palaces and castles of kings were finished with this material. Marble is durable, practical and has excellent decorative properties. However, decorating false fireplaces with marble is quite difficult, since it is still a stone, and a lightweight drywall construction is unlikely to withstand such a weight.
- Decorative plaster. This finishing material can easily imitate even a tree, even a stone, even to recreate a smooth, uniform surface. It is for versatility that designers love plaster. It can be tinted in any color or painted already on top, form fancy patterns and ornaments - any way is good, the main thing is that the end result is combined with the style of the room.
- Glass. Glass is a rare guest on the walls of a false fireplace, but with its help you can create a unique and unique portal, for example, using the glass painting technique. Basically, glass is used as a partition in electric operating fireplaces. A stained glass window also has the right to exist, but in order to really achieve the desired effect, you will have to come up with an original backlight.
- Metal. One of the "coldest" materials for interior interior decor. It is used mainly in styles such as modern, hi-tech or loft. But artistic forging can bring a touch of romanticism to Provence or country. An openwork partition will be appropriate in any ornate interior - classic, art deco, Victorian, rococo.
- Self-adhesive film. An excellent alternative with a minimal budget is self-adhesive - a PVC-based film with an adhesive base. The pattern and texture of the film can be very different: with imitation of marble, other stone, wood, brick, tile.
What to put in a fireplace niche
The most exciting issue of decorating a false fireplace is a niche (the place where the firebox should be). If the hearth is not active and there is no firewood in the firebox, then what should be put or put in its place? And the design of the back wall of the furnace also matters. It can be formatted in different ways:
- Paste over with mirrors to visually push the boundaries of the fireplace portal;
- Paint it black, which will also visually deepen the niche;
- Paste over with photo wallpaper depicting a real flame, brick or firewood;
- Paint the walls on which the fireplace is located to match;
- Lay out with contrasting ceramic tiles or tiles with patterns.
In the very niche of the fireplace you can place:
- A set of candles of different shapes and sizes (but suitable in style);
- Books or magazines;
- Flowers in pots and flowerpots;
- Firewood and logs - this will create the impression that the hearth is working;
- A stack of pillows;
- Antique effect suitcases;
- Thematic or seasonal decor elements: pumpkins for Halloween, Christmas tree for New Year, angels for Christmas, fresh flowers for March 8, etc.
- Figurines and figurines.
By the way, those elements that you put in the niche of the fireplace should stylistically echo the objects placed on the shelf itself or above the hearth.
If you are still thinking about how to decorate a fireplace in an apartment, photos of ready-made solutions will help you decide. Just look at our selection of ready-made raised fireplaces.
If you want to create extra coziness in your home, there is one solution that will help you save both money and time, and at the same time create a very homely, cozy and comfortable atmosphere. And this solution is a do-it-yourself fireplace. It will look great in any home and decorate any interior. Fashion for fireplaces will never go away, especially for handmade fireplaces. Their relevance only grows every year.
Kinds
Before you start creating an artificial fireplace with your own hands, you need to find out what kind of fireplaces are.
The very first question that arises for someone who wants to make a fireplace is the design. What is it like? Which one to choose for building your fireplace? So, there are three types of them: a biofireplace, an imitation of a fireplace and an electric hearth (backlight).
Let's take a closer look at each of them.
Biofireplace
The burner performs the function of the combustion process in the biofireplace. It runs on biofuels. This is a great option for simulating fire, but very expensive.
Imitation fireplace
In fact, in this case, it is much easier and more convenient to solve this issue on your own with improvised means and without much impact on your wallet. What materials can be used here? Of course, this is drywall, a frame from old furniture, wood, or even an ordinary box.
Electric fireplace
As for the electric fireplace, it shows the visualization of fire, as well as the sound of a burning flame, on a special screen.
from brick
The construction of an artificial brick fireplace is very different from the construction of a real fireplace, where the lining is made only of high quality fire-resistant bricks. For the manufacture of a fireplace, you can use both facing and decorative bricks. There is no fundamental difference here.
As a result, it will only be necessary to make a mantelpiece.
It is important to pay attention to such a nuance that the already finished structure will weigh a lot and it is necessary to initially assess how reliable the ceilings are made, and, on the basis of this, make a decision to continue the planned installation work.
from wood
For lovers of vintage furniture, as well as those who prefer furniture made from environmentally friendly materials, we recommend using wood to create a fireplace. Both edged and unedged boards, as well as parquet, can be used as a material for construction. After manufacturing, you can cover it with varnish to give a more attractive look. A do-it-yourself wood fireplace should not be placed on the floor, but on a platform previously made for this purpose.
A fireplace made of this material has many advantages. One of them is the low weight of such a design, which allows you to make it of any size and install it in any convenient and suitable place in the apartment.
From furniture boards
Such a fireplace can be made both from ordinary plywood and from ready-made furniture panels, which must be purchased at a specialized store. Making such a fireplace yourself is not difficult. At the same time, the fireplace can be made of absolutely any size, after painting (if desired) the shields in any color you like or sticking special colored wallpapers on them.
Thus, you can make a modern and colorful fireplace with your own hands, without much effort and without a large investment of money.
Step-by-step instruction
The scheme for creating a fireplace from boards, plywood, wood and furniture panels is the same.
What needs to be done first is to assemble the frame. A galvanized profile is best suited for this purpose.
It is very important to first draw up a plan or drawing of the fireplace that you plan to assemble, while indicating, at least approximately, the main dimensions. After that, cut the profile using special scissors.
It is important to do everything in accordance with the dimensions and width of the parts so that there is no inconsistency in the manufacturing process. In the next step, check all the sheathing boards again. If necessary, all edges must be trimmed. Using self-tapping screws, attach the casing to the frame. Carefully screw in the screws, the caps should be invisible.
At the next stage, it remains to put the plugs on the fasteners, preferably decorative. And also paint in a bright color or varnish the surface. And at the final stage, you need to install a shelf, on which you can then put various souvenirs and decorations for the interior.
Metal
A homemade fireplace made of metal will look prestigious and very modern in the interior. But working with this type of material is quite complicated and is suitable only for those who have already encountered this kind of material and have experience and skill in working with metal parts and structures.
Details can be of different sizes and shapes, depending on your tastes. A homemade fireplace made of this material will fit perfectly into a modern interior, especially if it is dominated by silver, brown and light gray tones.
Staged creation
As it was written above, not everyone can afford an artificial fireplace made of metal structures. It is quite difficult to make it, therefore, all stages of its manufacture must be treated with increased care and responsibility.
So, the steps are described below.
Training
As in the previous case, the manufacture of a fireplace should begin with a small detailed plan or diagram indicating all sizes and dimensions. And you need to think through all the smallest nuances already at this stage.
markup
After the plan is drawn up, you can start marking. Marks should be made on the wall in the places where the fasteners will be placed. This work should be given special attention and approached with full responsibility.
Assembly
After that, we proceed to the assembly of the entire structure. The support in this case is an aluminum profile frame. It must be cut and then attached to where the marks were previously applied.
Installation
At the penultimate, final stage, place an artificial hearth in the finished structure. If the fireplace is not only an interior decoration, but also a source of heat, do not forget to fix a layer of heat-insulating material on the inner wall of the metal structure with the side that it is attached to.
From drywall
A fireplace made of drywall can be built even by a beginner. It's the easiest to create. Although this type of material has its own characteristics. The difficulty may arise only at the stage of creating a metal frame, but we can solve this issue.
Manufacturing instructions
First of all, of course, you need to make a frame. You can use both metal profiles and wooden sticks. Then assemble a box from the profiles without a back wall. Use a drywall cutter and glue the pieces together.
Prepare the base in accordance with all dimensions, and place against the wall. It will be better and more stable if the box is attached to the floor, thus creating a reliable foundation. We glue the assembled future fireplace to the prepared box. We install a chimney board on top of the structure.
Glue the plinth under the mantelpiece. This must be done in stages. In order to make the transition smooth and beautiful, steps of different widths are used.
Now we install a homemade hearth.
At the end of creating a beautiful home-made fireplace, we make the finish from the previously selected materials.
From stone
In any apartment and any house, a fireplace made of stone looks really chic and expensive. Such decoration of the house speaks of the exceptional taste of its owner.
Step by step production
It is quite possible to make a stone fireplace with your own hands. It is convenient to attach such material as stone to various surfaces, whether it is brick, drywall or any other material. But here it is important not to forget that the stone has a fairly large weight, and take this into account when planning the creation of such a heavy structure.
First of all, you need to prepare the stone for further work with it, namely to clean the surface. In the event that the fireplace will be attached to a stone wall, it is necessary to make small indentations with a sharp tool.
The warmth of the hearth always evokes a feeling of calmness, comfort and coziness. Owners of private houses can easily create such an atmosphere in their home. In an apartment, you can make a decorative fireplace with your own hands, without having special skills in construction work. To do this, use the step-by-step instructions, as well as stock up on the necessary materials and tools.
Installing an ordinary fireplace in a city apartment is very problematic. This is due to the lack of a chimney, as well as the overlap, which may not withstand serious loads. For the construction of a fireplace structure in a multi-storey building, you need to obtain a special permit. A good solution is to make an artificial hearth and enjoy a pleasant spectacle during the cold season.
Many people living in high-rise buildings buy electric fireplaces. These devices help out when the heating has not yet been turned on. The stores offer a large selection of such products. They are small in size and can easily fit in city apartments. However, a more exciting activity is to simulate a fireplace with your own hands. This allows you to show your imagination, as well as to make a unique piece of furniture.
An open fire in a city apartment is not needed at all, so a do-it-yourself false fireplace will become a multifunctional decoration. It will be difficult to distinguish it from the real one. The arrangement of an artificial hearth will not require the reconstruction of the living quarters. These products are divided into 3 groups:
- authentic;
- conditional;
- symbolic.
Do-it-yourself cardboard fireplace)))
Reliable artificial hearths completely imitate real fireplaces. They strictly adhere to the size and design principle. It is possible to install a biofireplace burner in the inside of the firebox. It will create an almost exact effect of a real flame. This option is considered the most expensive, but it looks the most plausible.
Conditional false fireplaces are built in the form of a protruding portal from the wall. Further decoration is done according to your taste and wishes. The hole for the firebox is filled with firewood or candles are placed in this zone.
round arch with niche, assembly and white version. Drywall installation.
Symbolic fireplace made from any materials. Its peculiarity lies in the fact that it does not look like a familiar hearth. Sometimes it looks like a pattern with decorative elements.
To create an artificial fireplace, you can use various materials that are already in the house. To simulate the hearth, you can use:
fireplace #1. Do-it-yourself elegant classic, drywall installation. Gypsum Fireplace install.
As a material, you can also use old furniture that has served its time. Usually very original items are made from it. Such products in finished form will be able to decorate any room. They are rarely found in apartments, so they look unusual and attractive. It is customary to decorate the surface of the building with beautiful elements.
If you use an electric fireplace to create a hearth, it will become an additional source of heat and light. Such a product will come in handy on cold days when the central heating is not yet connected.
Almost all fireplaces have massive tops that are used as a place to place photos or decorative items. They look especially impressive for the New Year, when they are decorated with festive garlands, fir branches, and socks for gifts.
Sometimes false fireplaces are made to hide shortcomings or communications, for example, sockets, wires. Often, apartment owners try to hide radiators located in the corner under the window or in the wall of an adjacent room. Such a disadvantage can be easily turned into a living room decoration. A decorative portal is made around the radiator, from which heat continues to flow.
Decorative fireplaces have now become very popular, since it does not take much time and effort to install and create them. It's much easier than making a real hearth. Such products have the following advantages:
Although no one plans to make a fire in such a device, you should still not put paper or other flammable things in it. This is dangerous if the fireplace is built into the radiator area or when there are electrical appliances in the furnace.
Few interior items are as connected with the concepts of “coziness” and “home warmth” as a fireplace. On fire, people cooked food in their homes, gathered together, rested and warmed themselves before the flame of burning firewood.
Today, in order to have such a warm corner, it is enough to use a false fireplace, arranged by oneself, and it is not at all necessary to build a real one. Even an imitation of fire will attract the eyes of guests and owners of the house.
What is a fake fireplace
False fireplaces are lightweight compared to brickwork. There is no need to install a chimney, the device of which will require permits and design documents from various authorities. You can add electric decorative heaters with a visual flame effect.
A pseudo-fireplace is only an ornament, one of the decorative techniques in the design of any room. Such a structure is suitable for rooms in apartments, in the country and in a country house.
Advantages
First of all, this design is a rather successful design solution when masking the flaws in the communications layout: you can hide unsuccessfully protruding heating pipes, a large number of sockets and wires in the box.
Advantages:
- stylization of finishes can be chosen for any direction;
- no open flame;
- a wide variety of materials for self-assembly and decoration without certain skills and specialized equipment;
- ready-made portals with and without finishing are on sale;
- hiding communications;
- can serve as a shelf for books and souvenirs.
Depending on the width of the top cover and the reliability of the design, not only small figurines and candlesticks, but also large vases can be placed on the resulting tabletop.
Types of false fireplaces
In order to start choosing materials, you need to decide on the type and design of the fireplace, what it will consist of and where it will be located.
By type they are:
- reliable or as realistic as possible;
- conditional fireplaces with partial imitation;
- symbolic.
Depending on the size of the room, the type of construction is also selected. For spacious living rooms in country houses, a reliable type is suitable. He will be able to emphasize the stylization of the room and become a bright accent. Conditional and symbolic are more often made in apartments and are small in size.
Credible
The design of this type contains all the elements of the original, which achieves visual authenticity. Real dimensions are used with an imitation of a "live" flame. For this task, electric fireplaces or special panels with a suitable graphic translation are installed in the resulting niches.
Materials for the base of the portal are used with increased resistance to stress. This is a rather expensive option.
Conditional
Less expensive option from inexpensive building materials. Dimensions are selected according to the size of the room. The lateral width of the frame can be 10-20 cm with the width of the top cover five centimeters longer. Basically, such models are used as shelves.
Finishing can imitate brickwork, wood pattern and plaster moldings. In niches, you can equip a decorative corner, where you can add scented candles and other decorations that indicate the hearth. It is possible to install panels with graphics.
Symbolic
You can make a decorative fireplace with your own hands from polyurethane cornices, moldings ( decorative details in the form of a convex strip), wooden planks and even thick cardboard. In execution, they are more like a framing frame for a picture. The hearth can be painted with paints or stick the appropriate wallpaper. The design is executed in a flat solution, as a result of which the width of the top cover-shelf can be only five centimeters.
A symbolic false fireplace is suitable for small or narrow rooms - when there is nowhere to place it, but you really want to.
Materials for manufacturing
After choosing the type and size of the structure, drawing up a drawing, determining the style direction and color scheme of the future fireplace, you can begin to determine the necessary materials.
Brick
Suitable for mounting the frame of a solid portal. Due to the large weight, the use is permissible only in country houses. Even a hollow look is not suitable for an apartment. Ceiling ceilings may not withstand such a large point load.
For exterior decoration, brickwork can be imitated with almost any finishing material: gypsum, plastic, foam plastic "bricks" or even putty. You can simply draw them or paste over the fireplace with vinyl volumetric wallpaper with the appropriate image.
Boards with laminated coating
chipboard (sanded chipboard) or MDF ( medium density fibreboard) suitable for assembling the frame, and as a topcoat. If a frame is assembled from the slabs, then the finishing can be done with imitation of the same wood or brick.
Suitable for this:
- plasters and putties to create textures;
- paints and varnishes;
- stucco.
Purchased laminated MDF may not require additional finishing. All screw heads can be sealed with special tape, seams and joints can be closed with moldings.
Polyurethane
Ceiling cornices, small and large parts of pseudo-stucco molding are mainly made from this material. Since it is lightweight, the frame can be made lightweight from chipboard, MDF, drywall. Before gluing, the surface must be treated with a primer or PVA glue diluted with water in a ratio of 1: 1.
Various elements are suitable for creating imitations of fireplaces with your own hands in an apartment where there is very little space. The most important thing is to choose glue, since fastenings on screws and nails are unacceptable.
Drywall
It is used for sheathing the frame of the portal, assembled from metal profiles or wooden bars. It is installed in dry rooms, because when exposed to moisture it swells, deforms and exfoliates, and eventually crumbles.
It can be used for facing curved surfaces. For example, an arched vault. It is effortlessly cut, the screws are easily screwed in, the surface is smooth. As a finish, bricks are made from GKL (gypsum boards) and painted in the desired color.
Wood
Wood is a fairly high-quality and reliable material for both the frame and the cladding. Various bars and planks can be used to create the base of the portal. For decorative edging elements, you can use purchased blanks with wood carvings, parquet boards and their trimmings. They lend themselves well to processing when creating aging effects.
Do not forget about protective impregnations that repel any insects, as well as protect against mold and fungi. Appropriate varnishes are used to give gloss or matte.
Styrofoam
If heavy loads are not foreseen, then a frame can be mounted from foam sheets. Otherwise, this material is used in the form of elements to decorate the same cornices or rosettes for stucco molding. You can also cut out figures from it yourself.
Polyfoam is not afraid of moisture, but even to light blows it is unstable. It must be glued on a special glue, others can simply dissolve it.
Painting should be carried out after priming and only with acrylic paints - solvent-based enamels destroy it.
How to DIY
To make a false fireplace yourself, it is not necessary to have construction skills and design education. It is necessary to choose the type of construction and materials, the work with which will not cause difficulties.
Preparation and sizing
At the preparatory stage, a sketch is drawn or a photo of the finished version is printed from the Internet. On this basis, a drawing is made with the arrangement of dimensions, then - the calculation of materials.
Dimensions are selected based on the size of the room. They must be proportionate to the room in which the installation will be carried out. A small fireplace will be lost in a spacious living room, and a large one will clutter up a small bedroom. The optimal size is 1/3 of the length of the wall along which the structure will be located.
Polyurethane for portal
Finished portals are sold with and without finishing. A wide range allows you to choose the size and style direction - from minimalism to luxurious Victorian, from classic straight lines to imitation wood carvings and plaster moldings. The selected copy is mounted to the wall with glue.
Cornices, moldings and rosettes made of polyurethane are suitable for compiling the desired composition. They are sold to be painted.
Purchased Parts:
- cut to size;
- mounted to the wall with glue;
- covered with finishing material.
As a result, you can get a wood-like fireplace, metallic, bronze with patina, gold.
Plywood or old furniture
The materials that are easy to cut are plywood and laminated chipboard from old furniture. Preferences are determined based on the appearance of the finished structure. If the plans include a wooden version, then it is better to use plywood with a finished pattern, which, with the help of impregnations, becomes brighter and more expressive. If the first layer consists of softwood veneer, then the relief can be done with a metal brush.
The first step is to draw a sketch with dimensions. Then a drawing and calculation of the material is performed on a scale. This will help when purchasing a large sheet: having dimensions on hand, you can immediately cut it into blanks. So it is more convenient to transport, and at home it remains only to assemble.
When using an old cabinet, you only need a few cuts. Doors or shelves can be used for assembly on old ties or screws in their original form - this will significantly reduce the cost of the finished product.
Materials:
- plywood or old furniture;
- cornices, moldings or sockets;
- putty for filling joints and creating a relief surface;
- primers, paints, varnishes and powders;
- glitter, rhinestones optional.
Tools:
- a simple pencil or marker for marking;
- square for setting a right angle, ruler or tape measure;
- jigsaw or hacksaw;
- screws or ties;
- screwdriver and screwdrivers;
- grinding skins;
- brushes and rollers.
Procedure:
- Mark the blanks and cut them out.
- Sand the ends and the varnished surface if necessary (depending on the planned finish).
- Assemble and twist the structure at the selected location.
- Add decorating elements.
- Cover with paints and varnish.
Finishing can be done with putty and decorative cornices, followed by painting. If desired, sparkles or aging effects are added.
Drywall - a new life for remnants after repair
Even if you buy a whole sheet, it is not more expensive than the finished product. Details of various configurations are easily cut out with a regular clerical knife, but for this it is necessary to apply a pattern on both sides with a complete match. An electric jigsaw or angle grinder ("grinder") will make the job easier, but there will be a burning smell and a lot of dust.
To reduce the amount of dust, the cutting line is impregnated with water. But under the influence of water, the gypsum board becomes brittle, and the edge can be broken. If there is an assistant, then it can be put with a vacuum cleaner for the time of cutting and do without moistening.
Materials:
- sheet for cutting or remaining trim;
- metal guides or wooden bars;
- perforated corners;
- finishing putty;
- primer;
- painting net;
- paints, varnishes and decorations.
Tools:
- simple pencil;
- square, ruler or tape measure;
- stationery knife, jigsaw or grinder;
- spatulas smoothing and textured;
- level;
- screws;
- screwdriver or screwdrivers;
- sandpaper;
- brushes, rollers and sponges.
The dimensions of the portal are transferred to the wall in the selected location. After that, a visual assessment of the location and size is made: a look from the window, door and from the opposite wall. If necessary, you can make corrections by marking them on the drawing and sketch.
Assembly steps:
- Frame assembly. Sliced metal guides or wooden bars are twisted according to the markup. Holes are drilled in the concrete surface, dowels are inserted into them. The resulting base is attached to the wall. All formed corners are checked with a square, and the vertical - with a building level.
- Prepared GKL blanks are screwed to the frame in place. The head of the self-tapping screw should be slightly sunk. The pitch between the screws is 10-15 cm.
- All surfaces are primed.
- The joints are glued with masking tape and puttied. If the corners cannot be made even, then perforated corners can be used.
- The dried surface is cleaned with sandpaper and re-treated with a primer.
The frame of the portal is ready for decorative finishing.
Brick
Very heavy structures are obtained from this material, and when erecting them, it is necessary to make sure that the floor can withstand such a load. If everything is in order, then facing brick is used for work.
To make the product beautiful, you need to have styling skills.
Materials and tools:
- lightweight brick of the selected color;
- primer;
- composition for masonry;
- a container for preparing a solution;
- trowel and spatula;
- level;
- drill with a mixing nozzle;
- a simple pencil or marker.
Based on the drawing, you can independently calculate the required amount of brick and mixture. If it doesn’t work out, then the seller will help with the purchase.
All work with building mixtures must be carried out in protective gloves.
The solution is mixed in strict accordance with the instructions. Its quality characteristics are preserved for a certain period, which the manufacturer indicates on the packaging. Therefore, it is necessary to knead in small quantities in order to have time to use before hardening.
With a trowel, the mortar is applied to the brick, but without reporting one centimeter to the edges: when tapping and subsequent loading, the mortar will not float along the side walls and will not smear the brick. The protruding mixture should be wiped immediately with a damp cloth.
Step by step:
- A sketch is drawn and a drawing is made.
- Marking is done on the floor and wall.
- The location and dimensions are visually assessed.
- Brick is laid with wiping smudges and the formation of masonry joints.
A lid is placed on top. A brick false fireplace does not need further decorative finishing.
Carton boxes
After acquiring large-sized equipment, cardboard boxes remain, which can not be thrown away, but used as a building material for assembling a fireplace structure.
For this you will need:
- cardboard or boxes;
- wood glue;
- scotch;
- tape measure and ruler;
- stationery knife and scissors;
- facing paper or wallpaper;
- paints, varnish;
- roller, brush.
A fake cardboard fireplace can be a one-time craft for a holiday or family photo shoot. As unnecessary, you can throw it away or give it to someone. Centers for children's creativity will be happy with such a gift.
Step by step:
- Draw the expanded sheet according to the prepared scheme and glue the base of the portal.
- After drying, glue the joints with molar tape to strengthen.
- Paste the portal with carpentry or wallpaper glue.
At the final stage, paint and decorate the surface.
Styrofoam
Another material for quick and inexpensive assembly of the product. It is better to purchase sheets with a thickness of 100 mm. The foam remaining after the purchase of equipment is also suitable - it has a denser structure.
Based on the drawn up drawing, the amount of foam is calculated.
Materials:
- glue for foam;
- primer;
- painting net;
- finishing putty;
- putty knife;
- level;
- canvas for metal and a clerical knife.
Cutting foam is best done with a hacksaw with small teeth - this will reduce the likelihood of breakage and the edges will crumble less. If you use a clerical knife, then cuts are made on both sides.
The blanks should be glued only after priming with special glue, other mixtures will not be able to do this. The composition is prepared strictly according to the instructions.
An adhesive solution is applied to the prepared marking and blanks are installed. Before the composition dries, the level checks the correct installation, if necessary, adjustments are made. The entire surface is covered with a masking net so that the putty does not fall off.
The dried frame is primed, puttied and sanded. Next comes the finishing touches.
decorative trim
The most creative moment in the manufacture of a fireplace is its decorative finish.
How to simulate fire
To create a fake flame image, you can use 3D holograms with stereo effects, LCD technologies and digital panels.
Can be applied:
- the usual model drawn on the back wall;
- LCD TV;
- Christmas tree garland with light transmission control against the background of a 3D image;
- salt electric lamp;
- decorative plastic or ceramic firewood with or without internal lighting.
The listed materials are perfectly combined into a single composition and can both complement each other and create accents.
How to cover the roof
The cladding option depends on the material from which the portal is made. For strong structures made of brick, plywood, plasterboard or chipboard, you can use something heavier.
Such as:
- boards;
- floor tiles made of artificial stone;
- scraps of plywood lined with laminate, porcelain stoneware or glass mosaic.
For more fragile structures, you can use the same material as for the false fireplace, painted in the same or contrasting color.
What to put in the firebox and how to decorate the back wall
If you need to decorate an electric fireplace, then the depth of the niche under it should be at least 40 cm, it needs a socket. In other cases, a depth of 20 cm is sufficient.
A variety of items can be placed in the firebox:
- candles with and without scent;
- real or artificial logs;
- large pebbles mixed with other multi-colored pebbles;
- diode tape along the contour of the hearth bottom under transparent plexiglass, on which pebbles can be laid;
- paste over the back wall with a photographic picture or draw the composition yourself;
- vases with flowers, figurines of different sizes and even soft toys.
Decorations for the back wall are selected depending on what will be in the firebox itself.
Finish options:
- continuation of the portal;
- lining with plastic or plaster "brick";
- painted or pasted picture;
- mirror tiles of different sizes or solid panels;
- mosaic tiles or tiles of small sizes with ornaments.
Even without a live flame, a false fireplace is able to bring notes of calm and tranquility to an everyday evening.
Video about creating a fake fireplace with your own hands
In the video - a detailed description of the creation of a false fireplace with your own hands, indicating its dimensions.
If a few years ago an artificial fireplace was a symbol of luxury and an element of an elite interior, today this kind of design is available to almost everyone. Moreover, you can assemble an artificial fireplace with your own hands in the shortest possible time. First you need to choose the best material specifically for your interior, and then equip the decorative fireplace in accordance with simple and understandable instructions.
An artificial fireplace can be built from a wide variety of materials. First of all, think about how exactly the finished artificial fireplace should look like. Choose the appropriate style, dimensions, shape and decor elements.
Then take a close look at your pantry. It is possible that you still have enough of some material suitable for arranging an artificial fireplace. For the rest, be guided by your own preferences, not forgetting to take into account the important characteristics of each available material.
If a traditional wood-burning fireplace needs to be lined with exceptionally high-quality bricks with high refractory properties, then absolutely any brick can be used to lay out an artificial fireplace - at least facing, at least some kind of colored decorative, at least ordinary silicate.
You can immediately embroider the masonry seams and your fireplace will take on an attractive appearance. In the end, it remains only to install a mantelpiece. Brick faux fireplaces are best suited for country-style rooms.
Consider the fact that the finished structure of the material in question will have a fairly large weight, so before starting work, objectively evaluate the quality and reliability of the existing floors.
Fans of eco-friendly materials should pay attention to wood structures. You can use parquet, unedged and edged boards. To give an aesthetic appearance, the wood is covered with stain or varnish. The fireplace itself is best placed on a platform made in the form of a pre-furnace sheet.
Wood is a lightweight material, so the dimensions and shape of such an artificial fireplace for the home can be almost anything, completely to your taste. To connect the boards in the case of assembling a small structure, it is allowed to use glue. If the device is quite massive, use self-tapping screws, or even better - a complex connection of self-tapping screws and glue.
If you wish, you can come to the nearest furniture store, buy ready-made shields there and lay out an artificial fireplace from them. Suitable high-quality MDF and chipboard. Plywood works well too.
Previously, the plates can be painted in the desired color or pasted over with a decorative film. A fireplace portal of the desired size and configuration is easily assembled from ready-made shields.
Chipboard can even be tiled with a tile or decorative stone. Here already focus on your preferences and available budget.
Do-it-yourself wood fireplace
Boards, furniture panels and plates - all this is attached in approximately the same way.
First stage. Assemble the frame of the artificial fireplace. It is best to use a galvanized profile for this.
First sketch at least an elementary drawing of the future fireplace, indicating the main dimensions. Cut the profile into pieces of the desired size using a hacksaw or special scissors.
Attach the vertical posts of the frame to the floor and walls with a screwdriver and self-tapping screws. Attach horizontal bars to the uprights for greater stability.
In the process of planning the step between the racks of the frame, pay attention to the dimensions of the selected material for sheathing, i.e. width of boards, wood boards, boards, etc.
Second phase. Try on the cladding boards to the frame. Trim the bottom, top, or edge boards as needed to fill the entire space nicely.
Third stage. Attach the trim to the frame with self-tapping screws. An electric screwdriver will help you with this. Screw the self-tapping screws so that their heads go into the wood a little, and in the future they are not noticeable after finishing.
Fourth stage. Close the mounting points of the fasteners with decorative caps. Paint the skin, varnish it, or use another finishing material to your taste.
Fifth stage. Install a fireplace mantel. On it you can place various decorations.
Do you have experience working with metal products? Then it will not be difficult for you to make a wonderful metal artificial fireplace. This design will look truly stylish and original.
The shape and other design features depend solely on your personal preferences. Metal fireplaces fit best in high-tech interiors and other modern styles.
Metal faux fireplaces are more difficult to assemble than their counterparts made from other materials. Therefore, you need to take the work as responsibly as possible and do everything in full accordance with the recommendations received.
The first stage is the preparation of the plan. Determine the preferred shape of the fireplace, the optimal dimensions of the structure, think over the decorative finish. Display all your ideas on paper with important dimensions.
The second stage is marking work. Place marks on the wall to place the fasteners. If possible, try to make the markup as accurate as possible, observing all levels.
The third stage is the assembly of structural elements. The support of such an artificial fireplace will be an aluminum profile frame. Cut the profile into pieces of the desired size and attach them to the wall in accordance with the markings previously applied.
Dial the frame and attach it to the wall with anchors.
Perform the installation of protruding structural elements. Sheathe the frame with sheets of the selected material. Usually aluminum or stainless steel is used for sheathing. To get a more spectacular and beautiful design, you can use metal sheets of different colors.
For example, you can make the main faces from a light material, and the ends from a dark one, or vice versa. With proper execution, this technique allows you to abandon the finishing of the fireplace. Or you can sheathe the frame with the most ordinary sheet metal, and then simply paint it in the desired color.
The fourth stage is the installation of equipment. Place an artificial fire in the assembled base.
If the fireplace you have chosen is not just a decoration, but also gives heat, before installing it, fix a layer of heat-insulating material on the internal metal walls of the base. Mineral wool heaters are perfect.
The most popular and easiest to implement option. The only difficulty for a beginner may arise at the stage of constructing a metal frame, you just need to practice a little.
Drywall is extremely easy to process and install. You can effortlessly cut the sheet into blanks of the required shape, bend drywall and perform other necessary actions.
Do-it-yourself drywall fireplace
First stage. Make a frame using wooden beams or metal profiles. Assemble a box measuring 130x120x30 cm from drywall sheets. The box should be without bottom and back walls. Use a sharp knife or hacksaw to cut drywall. Glue the parts of the box with mounting glue.
Second phase. Prepare a drywall base measuring 150x40x20 cm. Install the finished “foundation” near the wall. For added security, glue the box to the floor with mounting adhesive.
Third stage. Glue the previously assembled fireplace structure to the "foundation". Install a suitable sized mantel on top.
Fourth stage. Make a decorative chimney measuring 80x15 cm from drywall and wooden planks (frame). Determine the height yourself - from the mantelpiece to the ceiling surface. Glue the chimney to the wall and directly to the fireplace. Do this part of the design at your discretion, if you wish, you can do without it.
Fifth stage. Carefully glue the ceiling plinth to the "foundation" and the main part of the structure. In the case of the main part of the structure, the plinth should be glued under the mantelpiece. Here it is better to place it in steps, using products of different widths to get a beautiful smooth transition.
Sixth stage. Install your artificial fire inside the drywall construction.
Seventh stage. Finish the artificial fireplace. Here, do as you please. For finishing, you can use water-dispersed paint, wallpaper, foam tiles and other suitable materials.
Fireplace trim. Possible variant
Pay attention to the proper decoration of the surrounding space. The wall near the fireplace should be in harmony with it in style.
Artificial fireplaces lined with stone look very elegant, stylish and expensive. Decorative tiles will bring a unique charm to the surroundings and will become a worthy decoration of almost any interior.
Do-it-yourself decorative stone fireplace
Artificial fireplaces with stone cladding look truly chic. At the same time, the stone can be attached to almost any surface - even to brick, even to drywall, even to any kind of other materials. The main thing is that the base is able to withstand the weight of the finish.
First step. Thoroughly clean the base of any dirt. If the stone will be attached to the brickwork, first deepen the seams between the building elements using any sharp object.
Second step. Fix the masonry mesh on the entire surface to be tiled.
Third step. "Try on" the lining elements dry. It is most convenient to do this on the floor or some other plane. Simply transfer the projection of the fireplace to the surface and lay out the cladding elements on it. So you can adjust the stones in shape, color and other indicators.
Fourth step. Proceed to fastening the cladding elements. To obtain the highest quality and durable coating, start facing with the installation of the thickest tiles. You will be guided by them and will be able to understand which layer of glue to apply to thinner stones.
Fasten the first tile in the lower corner. Completely lay out the corner and proceed to the device of the upper horizontal row of cladding. Stones will be attached in the direction from the top of the fireplace to its base. For fixing tiles, it is recommended to use an adhesive specially developed for such materials.
Usually glue dries 2-3 days. Check the exact time in the instructions for your tool. Wait for the glue to dry completely and grout the seams. First make sure that the grout you choose does not leave marks on your cladding. This can be done on some third-party piece of stone.
Decide on the most suitable material for your case and start arranging an artificial fireplace.
If none of the considered materials suits you, you can show your imagination and create a truly original design. For example, some masters make beautiful hearths from large aquariums. It is enough to fill the bottom of the container with pebbles and install a biofireplace in it.
Successful work!
Video - DIY artificial fireplace
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