DIY Pellet Stove Hearths

Freestanding

• 1

  Read the manufacturer’s instructions for your particular model. In general, you need to make a hearth large enough to have a 6-inch border around the stove base, but if the manufacturer of your stove calls for larger hearth, build to their specifications.

• 2

  Measure the base of your pellet stove, then add 12 to the number. If the base is 24 inches on each side, then you need to create a hearth 36 inches on each side.

• 3

  Choose the location for your pellet stove. If the floor covering in that area is combustible such as carpet you need to remove a 36-by-36 inch area of it. Use a utility knife to cut away the carpet and padding.

• 4

  Nail the 2-by-4's together to create a frame that encloses the 36-by-36 inch area on the floor. Place it on the floor framing the bare spot.

• 5

  Follow the instructions on the cement mix and pour it into the frame. Run the wooden smoother over the top of the cement to create an even, level surface. Let the cement dry and cure for at least two days.

• 6

  Improve the look of the hearth by tiling it. Although it is not necessary, the tile can help increase the fire-resistance level of the hearth.

Fireplace Insert

• 7

  Measure the hearth of your installed fireplace before installing the pellet stove insert. If it does not extend far enough out in front of the insert’s base, you will need to add on to the front of the hearth until you have a full 6-inch border.

• 8

  Don’t remove the flooring in front of the fireplace; because it will not be directly supporting the pellet stove, it is safe to leave carpet beneath. Instead, build a frame for the concrete you’ll need, then place the frame on the plywood sheet so the concrete will rest on wood, not the floor.

• 9

  Mix the cement and pour it into the frame. Take care to match the height of your current hearth. After the cement cures, mortar the hearth extension to the front of your existent hearth.