Materials Needed:

• stacked stone
• 2X4 pressure-treated lumber
• concrete foundation
• concrete cinder blocks
• backer board
• screws
• mortar
• trowel
• tape measure
• pencil
• notepad

• nail gun
• nails
• drill
• screws
• chop saw
• shovel
• chimney cap
• protective gloves
• screwdriver
• masonry anchors or bits

Step 1: Create a Design

Use tape measure to determine width, length, depth and height of fireplace. Jot dimensions down in notepad using pencil. Establish the overall look for fireplace. Consider brick for a more traditional aesthetic or man-made stacked stone for a contemporary look. Also decide if your fireplace will be wood burning or gas-lit.

Step 2: Create a Concrete Foundation

If your home doesn’t already offer a safe, flat area with a concrete slab, create one by digging a ditch, and mixing then pouring concrete.

Step 3: Lay Concrete

Referring to design, lay concrete cinder blocks, adding a layer of mortar between each block, leaving opening at top of chimney for ventilation.