The fireplace unit
Creating a fireplace ?
by
Marie
+12
Opinions please.
I bought an electric fireplace. The sides do not get hot and the heat only comes out the front.
I am going to create a fireplace out of the shelf unit it is sitting in. I thought I would use foam board on the sides and use red brick contact paper. I hope l can raise the top shelf and use it as a mantle, if I can’t I will add a top and stain it a dark stain. Around the fireplace I have been thinking of boxing it in again using foam board and using a tiled look wallpaper to cover the foam board.
My home colors are creams and grays with red accents.
This is the wallpaper
I would use the faux brick paneling and paint it shades of white and gray to go with paper. You cut it like paneling. It will look so much better than contact paper.
Perhaps you should check to see what the area where you live requires for this. Home owners insurance might also have some requirements. Please read this before installing:
✔️Electric Fireplace Safety Tipshttp://cozybythefire.com/electric-fireplace-safety-tips/#:~:text=1%20The%20heating%20element%20is%20hot%20when%20switched,the%20heater%20directly%20into%20wall%20receptacle%20or%20outlet.
Faux brick paneling is a much better idea than contact paper. Be sure to check with the manufacturer about closing it in. You may void the warranty.
Check you owners manual. I would not use foamboard at all. You need to properly install it due to you homeowners insurance coverage. You can Google or Bing the make and model if you don't have a manual.
I know you've said it doesn't get hot in certain spots, but please be careful about flammable materials around this box. They could still catch fire. And be mindful of air vents. Check with the manufacturer before doing anything, see if it's ok to box around it.
I would not use anything flammable near it because it produces heat and needs ventilation. Enclosing it may create a fire hazard even though heat only comes from the front. Please check with the manufacturer, have the make and model numbers ready.
Hi, I would not use foam board, is there something less flammable, perhaps a faux wood look material? You can buy faux bricks as well, I would be worried about anything like foam or paper. You also want to check to ensure it can be enclosed safely
We did something sort of similar here: https://www.frugalfamilytimes.com/2019/05/how-to-build-faux-fireplace-in-corner/
Would definitely agree with using faux bricks. Since flammable materials can be very risky, so I suggest to utilize something less flammable and safe.
Contact paper is unlikely to stay stuck to the foam board when it is is exposed to the heat from the fireplace unit. It may even begin to stretch and warp.
Do you happen to have a Habitat for Humanity store or a Re-store near to where you live? They may just have a real fireplace mantel that you could purchase for a reasonable cost.
I would not use foam board anywhere near this.
Hi! You would be safer using something that isn't combustible.