How to Build a Firebox Out of Firebrick

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Things You'll Need

  • A design for the fireplace

  • Measuring tape

  • Marker

  • Level

  • Cement blocks or regular bricks

  • Cement adhesive or molding

  • Hard firebrick

  • Brick saw

  • Premixed refractory mortar

A well-built firebox provides safe heating, using wood as fuel.

Fireboxes take the brunt of the heat created by the burning fuel. A firebox is made of refractory material such as firebrick, which can withstand heat up to several thousand degrees. Although it is possible to mix your own mortar (fireclay and water), you can purchase a professional mix from a refractory material distributor in your area. The design can be simple or complex. You are essentially building a three-sided box made of firebrick. The front is left open to load the wood.

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Step 1

Measure the dimensions of your firebox. Make sure you have enough room to build the firebox and that the floor is level.

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Step 2

Outline the dimensions of the firebox on the floor using a marker. Determine how high you want the floor of the firebox to be and select an appropriate foundation material. A thin sheet of cement may be preferable to blocks. Use molding or cement to secure the foundation into place on the floor.

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Step 3

Cover the foundation with a layer of firebricks, dipping the bricks in the mix to coat the bottom and sides of each bricks. Use a hammer to tap each brick firmly into place.

Step 4

Build the wall of the firebox starting at the back. It should be at least 8 inches thick from the surface exposed to direct flame. Dip each brick in the mortar and put it tightly into place.

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Step 5

Work your way forward on both sides, interlacing (staggering) each successive layer on top of the previous one. If your brick is 4 inches wide, lay two interlocking rows side by side. Place bricks across the wall in a staggered fashion to connect the walls and add strength.

Step 6

Check your work using a level to make sure everything is straight. Cut half-bricks using the brick saw when you need a half-brick to finish a row. Ensure each cut is exact so the bricks fit tightly together, preventing gaps that would allow flame to get through

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Step 7

Finish the firebox by completing the walls to the top. Depending on your design, you can now continue building the rest of the fireplace, including draft, chimney and so on.

Warning

The fireplace needs to be up to code to be used indoors. Have it inspected before use.

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