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  • Fireplace, Updating Your
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    This DIY Basic, brought to you by Craftsman, will provide tips on updating your fireplace.
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    Figure A

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    Figure B

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    Figure C

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    You can brighten up an outdated fireplace (figure A) by creating a new mantel (figure B).

    • Before getting started, you want to make sure your lumber is not warped and doesn’t have large cuts or holes.

    • Consider rubbing a damp cloth over the wood to give you an idea how it will look after it’s finished.

    • Scoring the caulk line will help remove the old mantle and to protect your wall, think about using a wide putty knife along with a pry bar.

    • The wood for the new surround gets cut into three pieces and assembled with wood glue.

    • A piece of wood 8" wide makes a good looking mantel and can be screwed on top of the surround.

    • Wood appliqués (figure C) created with a carving machine can add uniqueness, with decorative accents added to the front face and the sides.

    • Once it’s attached to the wall, a finish nail gun helps attach molding cleanly.

    • Your new mantel is set to be finished with an oil varnish then grab the firewood and enjoy your hand crafted transformation.

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    • A new fireplace front usually has three main parts: the fireproof material surrounding the firebox and covering the hearth, the new surround and the mantel top.

    • No matter the size of the fireplace project, factor in the desired look of your living space.

    • If the masonry shell is well constructed, the transformation can be fairly quick and affordable?like putting icing of the cake.

    • A fireplace made from brick can be painted. Try some fire rated paint inside. A stencil pattern can add a dramatic effect.

    • Try plaster that can be applied to many surfaces like brick or well-adhered paint when using a primer.

    • You can really change the look of the fireplace by using various materials on the exterior of the fireplace. Think about using marble slabs or small tiles.

    • The fireplace can be designed to complement the room. Think about changing the shape or size of the mantel for an entirely different look.


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