How to Build a Fireplace With Decorative Columns

Adding a surround to a fireplace can create drama, enhance existing decor and dress up your fireplace to make it the focal point of the room. One way to really play up the fireplace is to add decorative columns on either side. Decorative columns are available from a variety of sources, either through a wholesaler's website, your local hardware store or an antique or salvage store, in a variety of styles. The addition of columns creates an architectural element to the room, and can take a fireplace from boring to exciting.

Measuring tape
Level
Pencil
Stud finder
Drill
Hammer
Nails
Carpenter's glue
Wide putty knife
Small pry bar
Wood for surround
Decorative columns

Instructions

- 1
  
  Measure the firebox and the surrounding wall space first.
  
  Check local building codes for minimum setbacks from the firebox allowable for wood trim. Measure both the firebox and the adjoining wall space that you want to dedicate to a surround.
- 2
  Remove existing trim with a wide putty knife and a small pry bar. Position the putty knife between the pry bar and the wall to prevent gouging. Consider replacing the tile or brick to update the hearth and the firebox.
- 3
  
  Trim pieces on the mantel add a designer touch.
  
  Components of the fireplace surround are a horizontal strip of wood across the top of the firebox and butting up to the inside of each column, decorative columns on either side, and a mantel, which will rest on the horizontal piece and the columns. Cut the horizontal piece to the desired length and depth. Locate wall studs with your stud finder and mark their position, as well as the position of the horizontal piece. The top edge of the horizontal piece should be at the same height as the top of the decorative columns. Make certain that the horizontal piece is level and nail it on the wall, using a nail gun, or drill holes and use a hammer and nails.
- 4
  
  Be sure the decorative columns are resting on the floor before attaching them to the wall.
  
  Position the decorative columns, gluing the inner edges that touch the tile. Make certain that they are resting on the floor and are level and plumb. Nail into place, using a nail gun or a drill, hammer and nails.
- 5
  
  The mantel is the final piece in the assembly.
  
  Position the mantel over the horizontal piece and the columns. Check to make certain it's evenly placed over the three pieces and mark the center spot on both the wall and the mantel. Remove the mantel and put carpenter's glue on the upper surfaces of the horizontal piece and the columns. Position the mantel again, check for level and secure with nails.
- 6
  
  Apply paint or stain after filling all imperfections with spackle.
  
  Spackle nail holes and other imperfections prior to painting. Let dry and sand. Apply paint or stain.
- 7

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Fireplaces