Want a warm and inviting space that looks great with style not compromised? Consider installing a fireplace wall along with a built-in TV.
This combination provides warmth, entertainment and style all in one place. It saves space and makes your room’s focal point.
With this build plan of mine, you don’t need to be an expert.
We’ll walk you through each step in detail, starting from shopping for materials to building and mounting the frame, as well as hanging your TV too.
Your family will love the feature wall you have at the end. Let’s get started.
Understanding DIY Fireplace Wall Designs
A fireplace wall with a TV can match any home style. The key is picking a design that fits your space and taste.
Popular Styles for Fireplace Walls with TV
You have three main styles to choose from:
Modern minimalism keeps things clean with straight lines, smooth surfaces, and neutral colors. A sleek electric fireplace works great here. Mount your TV directly above it with hidden cables for a tidy look.
Rustic farmhouse brings that cozy cabin feel. Use reclaimed wood or shiplap with a wooden mantle and warm tones. An electric or gas insert fits well with this style. The wood texture adds character to your room.
Contemporary built-in creates a custom look with shelves or cabinets on both sides of the fireplace. You get extra storage plus a polished finish. It works with any fireplace type and makes your TV feel like part of the wall.
Planning Your Fireplace and TV Wall
Good planning saves you time and prevents mistakes. Take measurements carefully before you start building.
Measuring and Layout Tips
Start by measuring your wall space. Mark where you want the fireplace and TV to go. The fireplace should sit at floor level or slightly raised.
For TV height, aim for 60 to 65 inches to the center of the screen. This accounts for the fireplace below. Leave at least 6 inches on each side of your fireplace for framing. Make sure your TV looks balanced and centered.
Framing and Structural Considerations
Find the wall studs with your stud finder. Mark them with a pencil. Your TV mount must attach to studs for secure support. Studs are typically 16 inches apart.
If building out from the wall, add vertical studs every 16 inches. Use 2×4 lumber for the frame. Check the weight of your fireplace insert. Add extra blocking for heavy materials like stone.
Safety Guidelines
Keep proper clearances around your fireplace. Most electric inserts need 3 inches of space on the sides and top. Your TV should sit at least 12 inches above the fireplace to prevent heat damage.
For electrical work, turn off power at the breaker box. Keep wires away from heat sources. If using a gas fireplace, hire a licensed professional. Never attempt gas work yourself.
Test the temperature above your fireplace before mounting the TV. It should stay below 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step-by-Step Construction Guide
Now it’s time to build. Follow these steps in order for the best results.
Materials and Tools You’ll Need
- Wood planks, drywall, or stone veneer for the wall surface
- Electric, gas, or ethanol fireplace insert
- Quality TV mount rated for your TV’s weight
- Wall anchors, screws, and a stud finder
- Tilting mount for adjusting viewing angle
- Outlets for both TV and fireplace power
- Cable raceways or in-wall kits to hide wires
- Wire clips, drill, and fish tape for running cables
- Level, measuring tape, and safety gear
Step 1: Marking and Framing the Wall
Use a pencil and level to draw your outline on the wall. Mark where the fireplace and TV will go. Double-check all measurements.
Cut your 2×4 lumber to size. Install vertical studs every 16 inches. Add horizontal blocking at the top and bottom. Secure everything to the existing wall studs with 3-inch screws. Add extra blocking where your TV mount will attach.
Step 2: Installing the Fireplace Insert
Place your fireplace insert in the opening. Make sure it sits level. Most electric inserts just need to be centered and plugged in.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific model. Secure it with the provided hardware. Run the power cord through the wall to keep wires hidden.
Step 3: Mounting the TV
Find the studs where your TV mount will attach. Hold the mounting bracket against the wall and mark your drill holes.
Drill pilot holes into the studs. Attach the bracket with lag bolts. Make sure it’s level. Run your HDMI cables and power cord down through the wall using a cable kit. Connect everything before hanging the TV.
Step 4: Adding Drywall or Paneling
Measure and cut your drywall or wood panels to fit around the fireplace and TV mount. Leave openings for the fireplace insert and vents.
Secure drywall with screws every 8 inches. For wood panels, use finishing nails or construction adhesive. Apply joint compound to drywall seams. Let it dry and sand smooth. Fill nail holes in wood with wood filler. Seal all edges with caulk.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Sand any rough spots and wipe down all surfaces. Paint your drywall with two coats or apply stain to wood. Seal wood with polyurethane.
Add a mantel above the fireplace if you want one. Attach it to the studs with heavy-duty brackets. Install any shelves or cabinets on the sides for storage.
Style your new fireplace wall with decor. Add candles, photos, or plants on the mantel. Keep decorations away from heat sources.
Tips for a Professional-Looking Finish
Small details make a big difference. These tips will help your fireplace wall look like a pro installed it.
- Pick neutral tones like white, gray, or beige that match your room’s style. Mix smooth and rough surfaces for visual interest, like pairing painted walls with textured stone or wood.
- Hide cables inside the wall using an in-wall cable kit by cutting holes behind the TV and near the floor. Use cable raceways painted the same color as your wall if in-wall routing isn’t possible.
- Bundle multiple cables together with zip ties to keep them organized. Label each cable so you know what it connects to when making future adjustments.
- Install LED strip lights behind the TV for a soft glow that reduces eye strain. Add recessed lights above the fireplace with dimmable bulbs to adjust brightness as needed.
- Place sconces on each side of the fireplace to create a warm, balanced look. Keep lights pointed away from the TV screen to avoid glare during viewing.
- Keep your color palette simple with two or three colors maximum. Use matte finishes near the fireplace as glossy surfaces can reflect heat and show fingerprints easily.
Conclusion
A fireplace wall with a TV can be built even though it seems like a big project if you take your time, measure twice, and cut once. Don’t rush the process.
Do not worry. This is your first build in any case. Everyone starts somewhere.
Don’t worry you will learn as you go along and the end result will be well worth it. Resulting in a beautiful and price-improving feature wall.
I would love to see how yours turns out! Please share your finished fireplace wall photos with me below! Your project might give someone the confidence to start.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high should I mount my TV above the fireplace?
Mount your TV so the center sits 60 to 65 inches from the floor. This accounts for the fireplace below and keeps the viewing comfortable. Make sure there’s at least 12 inches between the top of the fireplace and the bottom of the TV for heat protection.
Can I use a real wood-burning fireplace with a TV above it?
Real wood-burning fireplaces produce too much heat for a TV mounted above them. The heat can damage your TV’s internal components over time. Stick with electric or low-heat gas inserts for safer TV placement.
Do I need a professional to install the electrical outlets?
You can install outlets yourself if you’re comfortable with basic electrical work and follow local codes. Always turn off power at the breaker box before starting. If you’re unsure or your area requires permits, hire a licensed electrician for safety.
What’s the best fireplace insert for a DIY project?
Electric fireplace inserts are the best choice for DIY projects. They plug into standard outlets, need no venting, and produce manageable heat. They’re also lighter than gas units and don’t require professional installation or permits.
How much does it cost to build a DIY fireplace wall with TV?
A basic DIY fireplace wall costs between $500 to $1,500 depending on materials. This includes framing lumber, drywall or wood panels, an electric insert, and a TV mount. High-end finishes like stone veneer can increase costs to $2,000 or more.
