Asked on Nov 16, 2015
Does anyone have tips on adding height to an electric fireplace?
by Amy
+7
It is about 4ft tall by 45 in wide. I'd like to use a 2x4 built box. I need ideas for ways to cover using tile or faux stone (not too heavy).
10 answers
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Hi, I made a faux stone fireplace a few years ago. It was really successful. Best of all easy! It was a frame of waste wood covered with MDF. I got a tub of filler and a roll of masking tape. I applied a thin layer of filler with a trowel then dabbed at it with a washing up sponge to give a texture. The masking tape gives you a straight edge to work to. Do a few areas at a time leaving gaps to go back to when the first lot had dried. When done all over i used several shades of acrylic paint to give a subtle shaded effect. Sounds fiddly but was great fun and very effective.
![Gill Moreton]()
Gill Moreton
on Nov 17, 2015
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You might try using metallic master reactive metal paint over a base of texured primer. Then you could finish the metal paint to best coordinate with your stove
![PainterNoni]()
PainterNoni
on Nov 17, 2015
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Without knowing the color, material, of the unit, or the room/wall it is to go on, it is hard to advise. Either 'hang it' or the box sounds good. But use something that does not accent the horizontal, as it will look 'stacked'. Maybe something like a frame with a center space rather than one flat surface. Have you considered making use of the box as 'storage' by making it open up? I am always looking for extra storage space. (could end up being your 'hidden safe).
![Johnchip]()
Johnchip
on Nov 17, 2015
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You could use the peel and stick vinyl tiles that look like stone, marble or brick to cover it. You might need a better glue to keep them in place. They are easy to cut with scissors too.
![DEBBIEofPA]()
DEBBIEofPA
on Nov 17, 2015
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We built a wall unit around our fire place- from floor to ceiling- so now it looks like it was "built in" somewhat- we added slate tile around the fireplace for the surround / flagstone would look good too
![Laurie McKenzie]()
Laurie McKenzie
on Nov 17, 2015
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Hi Amy. For your box's materials, check out luan (plywood sheeting) in 1/4 or 1/2". Or you might even be able to use sheathing in that size (at least the surfaces you'll be tiling). Luan is smooth on one side and rough on the other and is light weight. MDF (mentioned before) is okay BUT very heavy. For your surface finishes, there are so many nice, self-stick tiles available now. You can get the real stuff or faux materials (that are lighter weight). These go up AND grout easily ... or may not need grouting at all. Google "self-stick WALL or backsplash tiles". Hubs and I are planning a holiday pretty-up on our E fireplace, but no addition on the top. The design of our front panels can easily be dressed up without having to redo the entire cabinet. We should send each other our finished project pictures! :)
![Cheryl @ Artzzle]()
Cheryl @ Artzzle
on Nov 17, 2015
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A picture would help but one answer, there is a product at Home Depot of faux, manufactured and veneer stone that looks real. I have seen it. It is an online only product but they did have samples in the stores. Purchases are 2x4 panels, corners, edging etc. Light weight and easy installation. It is worth the look in store and help with what you need. You can also go to the brand websites for more information. I'm sure cost is a factor but compare to time, your creativity and the look you really want. Sometimes the diy costs can cost as much or more in the long run. The other suggestions are good too. Now there is light weight wall panel, insulation sheets and light weight concrete and so on. Research online, view and get samples and make lists and add your costs. Look at pictures even if real stone for ideas. BUT get your box or surround done first before final decision.
![Kathy T.]()
Kathy T.
on Nov 17, 2015
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Build a box to the needed size. You can use ceramic tile at a very low cost. I did something like this. I found broken tiles cheap and even free and did a mosaic pattern. Just take your time and be creative!
![Jo Ann Chewning Tomes]()
Jo Ann Chewning Tomes
on Nov 20, 2015
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What I did with mine since I did not have a built in for my electric fireplace is had a pair of side tables, I measured top of one and the electric fireplace and put the fireplace on top and place in corner near plug in. Raises it about 2 feet so not on floor. The side tables were cube like.
![Nancy Jenkins]()
Nancy Jenkins
on Nov 24, 2015
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Build a hearth out of wood the size and height you desire & cover it in faux stone or faux brick pavers. The picture you have over the fire place is too wide. You should never hang anything any wider that the piece underneath it. Let me know what you do.
![Creative Interiors By Connie]()
Creative Interiors By Connie
on Nov 24, 2015
Gill Moreton
on Nov 17, 2015
PainterNoni
on Nov 17, 2015
Johnchip
on Nov 17, 2015
DEBBIEofPA
on Nov 17, 2015
Laurie McKenzie
on Nov 17, 2015
Cheryl @ Artzzle
on Nov 17, 2015
Kathy T.
on Nov 17, 2015
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