Step by Step DIY Electric Fireplace Frame Guide

Want to stay warm without the hassle of a traditional fireplace? Many homeowners feel stuck with expensive installation costs and complex construction projects. 

Building an electric fireplace frame offers a smart solution that saves money and adds style to your home. By creating your own frame, you control the design and cost. 

You can make this project work in any room of your house. With basic tools and materials, you’ll create a custom fireplace that fits your space perfectly. The best part? You can finish it in just one weekend. 

Follow our simple steps to build your own electric fireplace frame. We’ll show you exactly what you need and how to put it together, from measuring to the final touches.

Let’s start building.

Tools and Materials Required

Tools Required

Tool	Purpose
Circular saw, or miter saw	Making precise cuts in lumber
Brad nailer	Quick temporary fastening
Power drill	Installing screws and creating holes
Level	Ensuring straight installation
Speed square	Checking right angles
Clamps	Holding pieces in place
Jigsaw	Cutting openings for outlets
Caulking gun	Applying caulk to seams

Materials Required

Material	Purpose
1×6 common boards	Wall backing support
2×4 common boards	Frame Construction
Wood screws	Mainframe fasteners
Brad’s nails	Temporary securing
Shiplap boards	Outer wall covering
3.5-inch MDF boards	Baseboard trim
MDF crown molding	Top trim finish
Corner trim pieces	Edge finishing
Wood filler or spackle	Filling nail holes
Caulk	Sealing gaps and joints
Electric fireplace (36-inch)	Main unit
TV mount	Supporting television
Electrical outlet parts	Power connection

Step-by-Step Guide for Building Electric Fireplace Frame

Step 1: Prepare the Wall

 Start by finding and marking the wall studs – this forms the base of your project. Take your 1×6 common boards and secure them to the studs.

First, use brad nails for quick placement, then follow up with wood screws for solid attachment. On an 8-foot wall, space these boards about 24 inches apart.

Make sure to place boards at the very top and bottom of your planned frame area.

Step 2: Build Side Frames

Begin frame construction by cutting your 2x4s into 7-inch pieces for the desired depth. Use your speed square to check all angles – precision matters here.

While working solo, use clamps to hold pieces steady. Start with brad nails to position everything, then secure firmly with wood screws. Remember to build two identical frames for both sides.

Step 3: Install Side Frames 

Consider removing the carpet near the wall for a built-in look. Position your side frames against the backing boards. Use your brad nailer to hold frames in place temporarily.

Follow up by drilling wood screws at angles through the frames into the backing boards.

Put two screws into each backing board connection point.

Step 4: Prepare for the Fireplace 

Set up the electrical components, making sure to install an outlet that meets the 12.5 amp requirement of the fireplace.

Add support boards at the back of the frame to mount your fireplace unit. These boards provide stable attachment points for the 36-inch fireplace insert.

Step 5: Add Front Frame 

Measure and fit the front frame pieces carefully. The frame should match your fireplace dimensions.

Secure initially with brad nails, then strengthen the connection with wood screws into the backing boards. Take time to ensure everything stays level during this step.

Step 6: Install Finishing Elements

Start with 3.5-inch MDF baseboards along the bottom edge. Apply shiplap boards across the frame, working your way up.

Use a jigsaw to cut openings for the outlet and fireplace. Add MDF crown molding at the top for a finished look. Install corner trim pieces to hide the shiplap edges.

Step 7: Mount TV 

Mark the center point and stud locations for your TV mount. Install the mounting bracket securely into the studs. Route any cables through the wall cavity to keep them hidden from view.

Step 8: Final Touches

Fill all Brad nail holes with wood filler. Apply caulk along all seams and joints, including the top edge and sides. Let everything dry completely.

This step makes the difference between a DIY project and a professional-looking installation.

Video Tutorial

Check out this YouTube video for a detailed step-by-step tutorial on making an Electric Fireplace Insert.

Essential Tips for Building Your Electric Fireplace Frame

1. Safety Tips

• Wear safety glasses during all cutting and nailing tasks
• Check local building codes before starting
• Have an electrician verify outlet installation
• Keep your workspace clean and organized
• Use proper lifting techniques when handling heavy materials

2. Measurement Tips

• Follow the rule “measure twice, cut once.”
• Keep a notebook for all measurements.
• Mark stud locations clearly on the wall
• Use painter’s tape to outline the frame before building
• Double-check level and plumb lines frequently

3. Construction Tips

• Pre-drill holes to prevent wood splitting
• Start with brad nails before using screws
• Keep shims handy for adjustments
• Test fit pieces before the final attachment
• Number your cuts and pieces for easy reference
• Use wood glue at joints for extra strength

4. Material Tips

• Buy extra materials for mistakes (10% more)
• Store wood flat to prevent warping
• Check boards for straightness before buying
• Choose quality screws and nails
• Pick boards with minimal knots

5. Finishing Tips

• Sand edges before installing trim
• Use paintable caulk for gaps
• Fill nail holes while the trim is unpainted
• Clean surfaces before caulking
• Let the wood filler dry completely before sanding

6. Time-Saving Tips

• Sort materials before starting
• Set up a cutting station
• Keep tools organized and accessible
• Cut similar pieces at the same time
• Plan your steps in advance

Mistakes to Avoid When Building an Electric Fireplace Frame

1. Not Planning the Space

Many people start building without carefully checking their room measurements. They forget to account for the TV’s final height, viewing angles, or furniture placement.

Always plan your space before cutting any wood or making permanent changes to your wall.

2. Skipping the Level Check 

Some builders rush through leveling steps, leading to crooked frames and uneven surfaces. A small tilt at the bottom creates bigger problems at the top.

Check your levels repeatedly during each construction phase, especially when securing backing boards.

3. Poor Stud Connection 

A common error is relying only on brad nails or missing the studs entirely.

Your frame needs a solid attachment to wall studs to support the fireplace and TV. Make sure to mark all stud locations clearly and use proper wood screws for lasting stability.

4. Incorrect Outlet Placement 

Many DIYers position the outlet without thinking about cord management. They place it too far from where it’s needed or forget the TV power needs. Plan your outlet location to hide all cords within the frame.

5. Rushing the Finish Work 

People often skip proper caulking and nail hole filling. These small details make the difference between an amateur and a professional look. Take time to fill every hole, sand properly, and apply caulk to all seams.

6. Wrong Material Choices 

Using lower-quality materials to save money often leads to problems. Warped boards, weak joints, and poor finishes result from cutting corners on materials. Choose quality lumber and proper fasteners for the best results.

7. Improper Support Structure 

Some builders create frames that are too weak for TV and fireplace weight. They might skip reinforcement or use insufficient backing boards. Always build with the total weight load in mind, including both the TV and fireplace unit.

Conclusion

Building your electric fireplace frame offers a satisfying way to add warmth and style to your home.

This project proves that careful planning and basic woodworking skills can transform a plain wall into a beautiful focal point.

You can create a sturdy, professional-looking fireplace frame by following the steps outlined above and avoiding common mistakes.

Remember that success lies in the details – from proper stud attachment to careful finishing work.

We covered everything from initial wall preparation to final touches, showing how each step builds upon the last.

The result is more than just a fireplace – a custom feature that fits your space perfectly and serves both form and function.

Take your time with each step, focus on safety, and enjoy the process of creating something special for your home.