DIY fireplace options for a private home

To build a fireplace with your own hands, you need to model its design project in advance. The choice of shape and dimensions depends on preferences. The purchase of materials is made taking into account the type of device and its design. The total cost of the equipment will depend on many factors, including the layout of the building.

Features of a fireplace in a private house

Modern models for heating rooms are designed for any interior and footage. Fireplaces are installed in living rooms, attics, balconies, terraces and even in a niche under the stairs. Some models are created solely for aesthetic purposes.

The construction of decorative fireplaces does not require approval from regulatory authorities, and their installation takes no more than 1 day. Before starting to purchase materials, the homeowner must study the characteristics of the equipment and select the right model based on needs.

Functional purpose

Fireplaces are installed for additional heating of the room. The heat output of the device is low compared to the stove. The main purpose is interior decoration, creation of an atmospheric zone for relaxation or cooking (kitchen).

Operating principle

A fireplace is considered an analogue of a stove. Fuel is burned in the combustion chamber, the smoke from which is removed through a pipe under the action of draft. The operating principle of other types of devices depends on the fuel used. For example, electric and bio-fireplaces do not need a hood with ventilation at all.

Advantages

There are many positive aspects. If you wish, you can arrange the fireplace yourself.

A practical feature of fireplaces is their versatility. In the event of a power outage or early cold weather, the device is able to maintain a comfortable temperature in at least one room.

Fireplace design

The installation has 4 main modules.

Classification of structures

The production of fireplaces is not limited to classic models. You can find a lot of interesting designs on sale, suitable for any layout.

By installation method

Fireplaces are laid taking into account design solutions. The location of the device affects its shape.

Classification:

The choice of model depends on the complexity of installation in a particular area.

If possible, move

Heating devices can be mobile or stationary. The former include false fireplaces (with a non-working firebox) and false fireplaces, which are assembled for organizing photo sessions or performances. Stationary devices are more bulky and heavy. A separate foundation is poured for their installation.

By fuel type

Various types of combustible materials are used for fireplaces.

Classification:

1. Solid fuel (wood, peat, coal).
2. Convection (with air heating).
3. Liquid fuel or eco- and bio-fireplaces (using purified alcohol).
4. With a gas or water circuit (similar to centralized life support systems).
5. Electric (fireplace heaters).
6. Pellet (on compressed fuel, sawdust briquettes).

The choice of a fireplace by fuel type should be approached responsibly. Not only energy efficiency, installation safety, but also the amount of further operating costs depend on this.

By place of origin

This classification distinguishes Russian, English, Swiss, French, German, Finnish, Estonian fireplaces. The internal structure of each model is different, as is the external architecture of the building.

How to choose a fireplace for a private house: what to pay attention to

Specialized stores sell ready-made portal kits with built-in fireboxes and smoke exhausts of any configuration and diameter.

When choosing, consider:

1. Place where the foundation is laid.
2. The purpose of the fireplace (decoration, heating, cooking, heating water).
3. Technical and fire safety rules.
4. Fuel type.
5. The shape, size of the fireplace, type of hearth (open or closed, single-sided or multi-sided).
6. Power (heating rate per unit of time).
7. Installation materials.

Taking these factors into account, you can choose 2-3 models, compare them by maintenance cost and energy efficiency, and make a purchase.

If the fireplace is being built with your own hands, the craftsman will have to think through the design himself or use a ready-made installation scheme.

Popular manufacturers

You can find a reliable contractor or supplier using reviews from the Internet.

Popular brands:

Each company develops a unique design of fireplaces that meet all safety requirements.

The range of products is wide – from standard fireplace designs to entire designer compositions combined with living space.

Style solutions

The appearance of the fireplace should complete the interior of the room, placing the right accents.

How to make a fireplace with your own hands

Work begins with a drawing of the intended design (photo). Based on the calculated dimensions, an estimate is made, according to which the necessary materials and inventory are purchased.

When building fireplaces with gas or water heating, a contractor is hired and a warrant is requested from the local administration. Fake fireplaces are installed in 2-3 days, while the installation of a full-fledged structure with live fire can take up to 2 months.

The manufacturing technology of the device depends entirely on the type of construction and ventilation system.

Preparatory activities

When installing a classic brick fireplace in the room, remove all furniture, do a wet cleaning, and cover the work surfaces with film.

Next, part of the floor is dismantled, a pit up to 1 m deep is made, which is filled with sand and crushed stone. The layers are insulated with a water-repellent material and filled with cement in several stages over the reinforced mesh. The technology is similar to laying a strip foundation and takes 20-30 days.

Schemes and drawings

The design project is drawn up according to the required dimensions and taking into account the total footage of the room.

Measurements for drawings:

1. The firebox area in relation to the footage is 1:50 (standard). To prevent smoke and improve heat transfer, the depth and height of the chamber should be related as 1:2 or 2:3.
2. The proportions of the portal are at the discretion of the master.
3. Length of the podium ledge (protection) – from 50 cm.
4. The slope of the rear wall for traction is 20-25°.
5. The chimney goes 50-100 cm above the roof ridge. The opening should be 8 times smaller than the area of ​​the firebox. The diameter of the chimney pipe is up to 10 cm.
6. The dimensions of the hearth correspond to the length of the portal.
7. The dimensions of the ash pan are calculated taking into account the type of fuel.
8. The grates (doors) are adjusted to the size of the firebox.

Additionally, the drawings provide for the installation of a neck with an arch, a smoke cornice and damper, and an umbrella in case of precipitation.

Selection of materials

Fire-safe structures are used when constructing fireplaces.

Materials:

The amount of materials is calculated independently.

Color scheme

Natural shades (not bright) are used for facing fireplaces. Combination of colors is done at will. An excellent option is a combination of dark tones of the facade with gilding or aged metal.

Wooden portals are mounted with light and gray masonry. Stone finishing in rich colors is combined with a black base.

List of necessary tools

The range of equipment is quite wide.

Tools:

The tools are used for laying a brick fireplace. In other cases, it is worth limiting the list to measuring and drawing tools, scissors, a brush, a screwdriver, a drill, liquid nails, and corners for stabilization.

Design options

The creation of fireplace installations can be implemented using any materials. However, in this case, the heating function will remain in question. The designer will have to think through everything to the smallest detail.

From plasterboard

Universal KGL panels are suitable for installing fireplaces of any shape. The basis of the design is a metal or wooden frame. Decorative grates, LCD screens with a heating element are installed in place of the firebox. There are many options for cladding - from painting to finishing with decorative brick or stone.

Made of cast iron

The material is used to create wood-burning stoves on legs or fireboxes under brickwork. It is impossible to use a cast-iron fireplace constantly. In addition, when installing a stove independently, it should be insulated with a fireproof screen and a stone podium should be laid.

Made of metal

Steel and its alloys withstand maximum temperatures. Externally, metal fireplaces resemble potbelly stoves with legs. They are installed even in rooms with linoleum or laminate. Installation of steel fireplaces requires the removal of a chimney, as well as protection of the walls in contact with the surface of the stove.

Made of brick

The material has high strength when heated above 1000°C. Fireplaces made of fireclay bricks are the most durable. They can be used for any type of homemade stoves. The main requirement is that the brick must be non-hollow, solid, without chips or cracks. The cladding is done with any other material.

Made of wood

The material is used in decorative fireplaces with LED (electronic) lighting. The portal itself can be knocked down from parquet board, wood panel, plywood or solid wood. The shape of the fireplace will be standard.

From the boxes

Cardboard fireplaces act as temporary decorations. Facing the facade is the most labor-intensive part of the work. With due diligence, a false fireplace can be built in 1 day if you prepare a drawing, a tabletop and buy soft panels for pasting the product (brick wallpaper, foam baguette) in advance. The free opening of the fireplace is decorated with a garland and a figured picture with fire.

Made of polystyrene foam

The material is more durable than cardboard. It is convenient because the craftsman does not need to measure each joint. They simply take a voluminous piece of foam and carefully cut out the central part. Then they glue the base and tabletop. The facade of the product is decorated with baguette and soft brick. An LED panel (candles, garland, fireplace decoration) can be installed in place of the firebox.

Water

The installation of such a fireplace is planned at the stage of building a house (extension). The water heating pipe is connected to the heating channel system inside the walls, foundation. Only an experienced specialist can install the equipment independently.

Electric

Fireplaces with imitation flame are built into a wall niche or portal. The equipment is purchased to order. Budget models are presented as ready-to-install options - in the form of wall plasmas.

Street

The specimen is placed on a garden plot or under the roof of a terrace or gazebo. An outdoor fireplace functions as a stove, grill, smokehouse, barbecue. The structure can be equipped with an oven, sink, countertop, shelves and a bar.

Stone

Granite and marble are the main materials for fireplaces. With a sufficient budget, a fireplace can be built from a solid block. A mass option is a brick oven with a facing of polished sheets, tiles, and small river stones.

Gas

The fireplace produces heat through a burner with fuel. The device is connected to the central gas supply or a cylinder with liquefied propane. The reducer supplies gas to the burner, maintaining the flame.

Any portal material can be used. The installation of the structure is carried out only by licensed contractors.

Gel

The fireplace emits a minimum amount of heat and is more of a decorative installation. To light the fire, a glass chamber is used, in the base of which a channel for biofuel is built in. It is often decorated with smooth stones. Gel (alcohol) fireplaces have a function for controlling the intensity of combustion. Models with remote control are also available for sale.

Stages of building a fireplace

The device for heating the recreation area is constructed according to the approved drawings.

Basic elements of masonry:

1. Ventilation pipe.
2. Smoke tooth.
3. Gas exhaust chamber.
4. Back plate.
5. Ash pit (ashpit).
6. Grate.
7. Firebox.
8. Under.
9. Podium.
10. Portal (with or without cornice).

A separate foundation for the fireplace is poured in advance. It should be 10 cm wider than the structure. If there is a gap between the cement and the floor level in the room, the base of the fireplace is raised. Repeated formwork and drying of the cement mortar will be required.

Masonry

The formation of the fireplace itself begins from the zero level - two rows of bricks, the first of which is placed on edge, the second - flat.

Stages of laying:

1. The dried concrete is covered with felt, a piece of iron, and 2 sheets of roofing felt. The layers are covered with a second layer of steel.
2. Lay out the zero row of bricks at floor level. Close all gaps.
3. The first row is laid from the corners to the center. The free space is filled with sand-clay mortar. Another 2-3 rows make up the base.

4. 

   Next, form an opening for the ash pan (with a door). The height of the masonry depends on the power and size of the fireplace. Additionally, you can set aside 2 heating channels (for the removal of hot air).

5. The following rows frame the walls of the firebox, narrowing in depth down to level 10. The grate is placed directly above the grate.
6. Rows 11-13 create a ceiling that turns into a smoke exhaust chamber. From level 13, a special type of masonry is formed, which allows eliminating backdraft (smoking of the room). At this stage, the formation of the arched vault begins. The layout schemes are downloaded from the Internet.
7. At levels 13-14, air wells (vents) are formed. Hot air enters the room through them. The energy efficiency of the structure increases by 20%.
8. A steel heat-reflecting screen is attached to the upper part of the rear wall of the firebox. The pins are driven in with adjustment at the stage of laying the rear wall. In another design option, this stage is skipped, since ready-made steel fireboxes from the store are more often used.

Starting from the 15th-20th row, the chamber is covered with a grate and they proceed to the construction of the chimney. If desired, you can finish the masonry at this stage. The steel pipe built into the firebox is simply brought out to the roof.

Construction of a chimney

This part of the structure is laid out in compliance with strict dimensions. When installing a ready-made firebox, the diameters of the joint (pipe) and the flue are selected in advance. To erect the structure yourself, you need to calculate the cross-section (square, rectangular). Otherwise, the fireplace will not have draft.

The brick flue channel has dimensions of 20x25 cm when laying out a firebox with sides of 60 and 75 cm. Starting from the 20th row, solid bricks are laid at an angle of 30° (inside the firebox). In this case, it is extended exactly by a quarter. This is how a fireplace tooth is formed (a pass in 5 rows). The flue takes the form of an inclined knee, which passes into a vertical channel. Pins are inserted into the seams of the bottom row of bricks. The upper part of the steel sheet is attached to them, the placement of which was planned at the stage of erecting the rear wall.

On the 25th-26th rows of bricks, a channel is laid for the removal of smoke masses. After 4 levels, the section of the masonry is expanded to the original value up to contact with the roof. For masonry above the roof (riser, otter, neck, head), use durable brick soaked in cement-clay mortar for 5 minutes.

Rules for the construction of chimneys:

1. The structure is laid along adjacent (internal) walls. Load-bearing (external) structures are not used for masonry due to heat loss.
2. The length of the pipe, or rather, its part visible from the street, should not exceed 50 cm.
3. The passage openings must ensure complete smoke escape.
4. When using brickwork, it is not necessary to install a reflector and umbrella above the roof.

In ready-made fireboxes from the store, the chimney assembly is carried out according to the instructions. The joint seam is treated with a sealant. The walls around the chimney are protected with heat-resistant material. To mount the pipe to the ceiling, a box is created with a reserve of 20-25 cm around the perimeter. The structure protects the wooden elements of the arch.

Mineral wool or expanded clay act as insulating materials. The box with the head is covered with a water-repellent cloth (flexible), a metal passage (with an umbrella) is screwed on top. Ready-made copies are purchased in construction markets.

Formation of the arch

The structure is formed starting from the 9th-10th row and ending with the 15th level. The arc bricks are cut with a grinder to the desired shape. Only whole briquettes are used in the front part of the masonry.

Types of arches:

Additionally, the vault can be formed using a tie or overlap method (wedge, overlap).

In all cases, the structure is placed under a temporary support base. The gaps are filled with mortar.

Facing works

At the final stage of construction, finishing is done with decorative materials (heat-resistant). The most common option is facing brick, plaster, ceramics, stone. If new brick was used during the laying, the structure does not need to be faced.

Installation: choosing a location

The fireplace is installed taking into account the layout and personal preferences. Popular places for placement are the lounge area, living room, kitchen. Consultation with a specialist is required.

Commissioning

It is recommended to use the fireplace 14 days after installation. After a week of drying, a small bundle of firewood is lit in the firebox. During the next period, the flame is lit daily (30-60 minutes). The dampers are always left open.

Rules of use and care

Fireplaces are easy to maintain. Once a season, the chimney is cleaned of soot. For this purpose, the design provides special hatches and openings.

Useful tips and general recommendations

To simplify installation, builders advise using several rules.

Adviсe:

1. Fireplace drawings are downloaded from the Internet. They already include overall dimensions and material consumption rates.
2. For quick installation, the bricks are first laid out "dry" without mortar. Then they are numbered. The structure is dismantled.
3. To save money, apply the mortar to the center of the brick with a trowel. Remove excess with a damp cloth. Level the seam (5-7 mm) with a rubber mallet. Check the thickness with a rail.
4. For better adhesion, red or blue clay is added to the cement mortar.
5. Red non-refractory brick is porous. Before installation, it is soaked in water for 3 minutes until all air bubbles are released.

The brickwork is laid evenly without any sagging or protrusions. Each new row starts from the corners. The slope of the brickwork is checked using a building level or plumb line.

Beautiful examples in the interior

Fireplaces are, first of all, interior compositions used to create an atmosphere of coziness, a family hearth. The style design becomes a decisive factor when choosing a composition.

Country fireplaces are perfect for a country cottage or summer house. Owners of elite real estate should take a closer look at the classics. The rustic style will be appreciated by lovers of lofts, owners of country houses-huts, villas, palaces-fortresses. Modern will appeal to refined individuals looking for a compromise between functionality and aesthetic content of the structure.