How to Build a Block Fireplace

Brick fireplace

There's nothing that makes a home cozier than a brick fireplace. My father was an artist with brick during his career as a mason. Here are some things I learned from him along the way.

Things You'll Need

• Fireplace plan with measurements (see Dimensioning & Estimating Brick Masonry below)
• Masonry block (red brick is most beautiful for fireplace face, hearth, mantel, and chimney)
• Fireproof brick for inside fire box (to insulate the fireplace and keep the house from burning down)
• Clay flue tiles (see Fireproof brick above)
• Mortar (cement + sand + water) (to hold the blocks/bricks together)
• Cement mixer (optional)
• Wheelbarrow (for mixing mortar)
• Short-handled hoe (for mixing mortar)
• Hod or Mortar Board (to carry smaller amounts of mortar with you)
• Trowel (to apply the mortar to the blocks/bricks)
• Striking tool for joints (to clean the mortar between blocks/bricks)
• Carpenter's level (for ensuring straight rows)
• Gloves
• A Chiropractor

Instructions

1. 

   If you have not previously worked with building cinder block or brick walls, skip to Step 9.

2. 

   2. Assuming you have experience laying block or brick, your first step is to determine the design of your finished fireplace. Here are some suggested sites:

   http://www.getdecorating.com fireplaces.cfm?gclid=CNPvz7PymJkCFQKbnAodDDBoaw

   http://www.fireplacedesigntips.com/Fireplace-Designs.html

   http://www.chateaustone.com/brick-fireplace-designs/

3. 

   Once you have settled on a design, check the building code requirements for your area. Here is a site that will assist you in finding state-by-state building codes:

   http://www.reedconstructiondata.com/building-codes/

4. 

   Gather your materials. This site will assist you in estimating your building material needs:

   http://www.gobrick.com/html/frmset_thnt.htm

5. 

   Start building from the bottom up - Base (footing, foundation wall, cleanout door, etc.)

6. 

   Next, build the stilling chamber (air intake and passageway), and Firebox assembly (air inlet damper, hearth - inner and extended, combustion chamber [where the wood goes], throat [to the chimney], etc.)

7. 

   Then build the Smoke chamber (throat, flue support, mantel [exterior], flue lining, damper, etc.)

8. 

   And finally the chimney and chimney cap

9. 

   As you can see, this is a job for only the most skilled professional. My recommendation is to hire a professional and sit back and enjoy watching your fireplace rise! Here's a link to help you start finding a local brick mason:

   http://www.business.com/directory/real_estate_and_construction/commercial_construction/contractors/trade_specialty/masonry/

Tips & Warnings

• Check through many fireplace designs before choosing one

• A fireplace adds warmth and character to the room

• A block/brick fireplace is a terrific way to go green with your heat

• If you don't have experience laying block or brick, consult a professional

Resources

• GO Brick.com