Quick Answer: How To Build A Concrete Fireplace?

Can concrete be used for a fireplace?

Pettigrew also likes concrete because it is warm and inviting. “Concrete hearths radiate heat and they are comfortable to sit on.” Fireplace surrounds can be made from the same mix used for countertops and other interior applications. There are many ways to make concrete stronger — water reduction is one of them.”

How thick does a concrete hearth need to be?

The hearth pad requires a thickness of at least 2 inches. However, if the fireplace’s floor is at least 8 inches taller than the hearth extension, the hearth extension’s thickness must only be at least 3/8 inch.

How much does a concrete fireplace surround cost?

Traditional Concrete Fireplace Surrounds



Typically the cost of these range between $3,000 to $16,000.

How do you make concrete fire resistant?

Portion the materials into a 3:2:2:0.5 ratio so you have 3 parts gravel, 2 parts sand, 2 parts refractory cement and 0.5 parts of the hydrated lime. Follow this ratio regardless of the volume of fireproof concrete you will be making.

Will concrete block explode in fire?

Are Cinder Blocks Going To Explode In These Fire Pits? No, generally speaking cinder blocks will not explode when exposed to the kind of heat fire pits put out (river rocks will though, check out our article). However, you might find that pavers or fire bricks are a better option for the long term.

Do you need rebar for 4 inch slab?

No, you do not need rebar for a 4–inch slab of concrete on grade. A 4–inch-thick slab cast on the ground and in permanent contact with it will float and rebar is not required. Rebar is recommended on concrete measuring 5 – 6 inches thick.

Do you need a hearth on concrete floor?

as for the concrete its whatever concrete they usually make a house slab with. I think you will be fine without a hearth. You do not need a hearth in this case.

How long does it take for 4 inches of concrete to cure?

When waiting for concrete to dry, keep these timeframes in mind: 24 to 48 hours – after inital set, forms can be removed and people can walk on the surface. 7 days – after partial curing, traffic from vehicles and equipment is okay. 28 days – at this point, the concrete should be fully cured.

Will concrete crack under heat?

Movement in concrete can also be due to thermal expansion and contraction – when concrete is exposed to fluctuations in temperature. This is why foundations can crack if the ground underneath them shifts too much and also why concrete tiles can crack if it set on a floor or wall that significantly shifts.

Can you cement over a brick fireplace?

Smearing cement over old brick is a great way to makeover an old and dated fireplace without spending a lot of money! You can easily do this in your home, simply have a tile installer come out to float the brick with cement. We used a piece of remnant stone as the hearth which was installed after the cement dried.

How do you make a brick fireplace look modern?

Paint a red brick fireplace a deep shade of matte blue. When the first coat of paint dries, apply a color wash and then quickly wipe it off with a clean, dry towel. To make the wash mixture, mix one part blue paint and one part white paint with four parts of water.

How far does a hearth have to stick out?

The hearth should extend at least 150mm out from the stove at the sides and 300mm in front. This 300mm distance can be reduced a slightly if the stove is not designed to operate with the door open. A freestanding stove which is not in a recess should have a hearth at least 840 x 840mm.

How can I make my electric fireplace look bigger?

Add planked wood above the fireplace.



A nice way to make your fireplace look bigger and your ceiling higher is to install planked wood above it. It’s a dramatic look and you can paint the planks in any color to compliment your room.

How high should a raised fireplace hearth be?

Your height: When loading a fireplace or starting a fire, a raised hearth provides a place to rest your knee while loading the fire. The most common hearth heights are from 12” to 18”. If you’re tall (over six-feet), choose a higher hearth size.