Readers ask: 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.

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 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.

What is the maximum temperature concrete can withstand?

The threshold of significant degradation of concrete is around 65-93°C (150-200°F). For this reason, current codes and industry standards dealing with reinforced concrete structures specify a maximum temperature limit of about 65-93°C (15O-2OO°F) to ensure predictable concrete behavior.

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.

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.

What is the minimum depth of a fireplace hearth?

The finished height, or thickness, of the hearth sitting beneath the wood-burning insert must be a minimum of 4 inches. The hearth extension, however, only needs to be a minimum of 2 inches in thickness. This may include any stone you plan to install beneath the insert or over the hearth extension.

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.

How do you make a brick fireplace look modern?

Brick can look dated or old fashioned, but a floating mantel is just the thing to update a brick fireplace to make it look modern. This one is especially cool because it looks like a solid wooden beam but it’s actually hollow inside! That makes it lightweight and easy to install.

Is concrete fireproof?

Of all construction materials, concrete is one of the most resistant to heat and fire. That fire resistance gives houses built with concrete walls certain safety advantages.

What type of cement is used for fireplaces?

QUIKRETE® Fireplace Mortar (No. 8620-21) is a silicate based refractory cement caulk for tuck-pointing damaged fireplace mortar joints and repairing cracked or chipped firebricks in fireplaces and wood-burning stoves.

How do you attach cement board to brick fireplace?

You’ll then have a sturdy and level surface on which to install new tile.

1. Measure the fireplace surround with a measuring tape.
2. Cut the cement board pieces to size.
3. Spread thinset mortar over the fireplace surround with a notched trowel.
4. Nail the cement board to the brick fireplace with 1½-inch concrete nails.

How do you cover an existing brick fireplace?

One way to update your fireplace is by covering it with tile. “Because tile requires a smooth surface, though, and brick is anything but, you will need to use a cement backer board,” advises J.B. Sassano, president of Mr.