How to Measure a Fireplace | A Last-Minute Bible

How to measure a fireplace according to room size? Your fireplace will be able to be measured according to its size to ensure that it is safe and reliable. By using this complete fireplace measurement guide you can easily measure the size of your fireplace.

The fireplace is a central part of any living room and it will no doubt be the focal point of your home. Most famous are electric fireplaces and gas fireplaces. But like any other piece of furniture, there are some things you must look out for when you’re buying one and one of them is the size of a fireplace. This is the Last-Minute Bible on fireplace measurement, you will not regret spending your few minutes on.

Source: Pinterest

Step 1: Measure height, width and depth of the cavity

While measuring the fireplace, it is important to take the correct measurement of height, width and the depth of the place where you want to fit the fireplace. Failing to take the correct measurements will lead you ending up purchasing the fireplace that will not fit in the desired place properly.

Pro tip: The measurement of fireplace should match the measurement of the cavity to avoid any inconvenience.

Step 2: Measuring fireplace opening

It is important to determine the correct dimensions. To achieve that take measurements of the cavity at the different points and note them. It is an important step, because, by not taking correct measurements at the different points means your fireplace will not fit in properly. This step is necessary to ensure no areas are smaller or bigger than the other areas in the cavity, where you want to fit in the fireplace.

Step 3: Measure the height – up and down

It is a good idea to use the measuring tape for measuring the size of fireplace.  Note the height of the firebox from the opening, rear and the lintel. It is also worth noted to measure the dimensions at the highest and lowest points.

What the heck is “Lintel”?

Lintel is an iron rod that runs from the front to the back down to the ceiling of your fireplace opening. This is found in some brick fireplaces. Its purpose is to provide structural support for the fireplace and is embedded in the brick. However, it can also sometimes be visible.

Pro tip

If the opening of your fireplace has the lintel that protrudes – you need to make adjustment for that lintel by adding 1/8 inches space.

Step 4: Measure the width  from Left to Right

Now measure the width from left to the right. First measure the width of the firebox from the opening i.e. the exterior and then the rear i.e. the interior.

Now make sure your firebox is in symmetry by taking the measurement of the width at different heights.

Pro tip

The width will be same at all point on square fireboxes but fireplaces with angled sidewalls will have different dimensions based on where you take your measurements.

Step 4: Measure the depth from front to the back

Now measure the depth from front to the back. Depth is basically the distance from the face of your firebox to back wall. Now measure the dimensions of your fireplace depth from the center of your firebox.

Now this is how to measure a fireplace.

Few recommendations on fireplace sizes

It is equally important to choose the right fireplace size to achieve the desired look based on the proportion of your room and the wall. We recommend using the following simple rules to get the right size fireplace. However, it still depends on your own style and preferences.

Rule # 1: Fireplace width should be less than the with chimney breast

Fireplace width should not be wider than the width of the chimney breast. Make sure that the mantel does not hangs over the width of chimney breast. Being overhanging, not only it will look strange but also exposes to dangers for getting damage.

Source: Google

Rule # 2: Width of fireplace for the rooms with flat wall

Good news is that there is no recommended width restriction for the rooms with flat walls. Isn’t it cool?

Concluding remarks

No doubt, measuring the fireplace to the correct size is a daunting task. But, I am sure, that this complete Bible on “how to measure a fireplace?” will be helpful to you in a general way to accurately measure your fireplace.  In person, I recommend you below mentioned:

Ameriwood Home Lamont Mantel Fireplace, White

Related: How to measure an electric fireplace insert?

Tell us in comments how my post helped you. CIAO!