Remodeling a fireplace can be fun

Remodeling a fireplace can be fun. According to DoItYourself.com, modifying the appearance of a fireplace can be one of the most gratifying changes you can make to a room. There is some expense involved, but the payback is worth it. And, if you're somewhat handy, it's work you can do yourself.

First you have to determine the style you're striving for: contemporary, traditional or modern. Since you're working in a combination of wood, tile or stone, and maybe Sheetrock and plaster, proceed only after you've done your homework. Your home may be traditional, so let's use this style as our prototype, but many of these principles still apply if your home is modern or contemporary.

Look through shelter magazines that show homes similar in style to what you like to help you identify the details that will be useful in designing your own fireplace. After you have about 10 to 20 pictures, you will see a consistency in style.

Now you're ready to apply what you've learned to design your own fireplace surround. Because this is a project that requires a variety of tools and exact measurements for the end result to be perfect, if your own skills at using a hammer and saw, cutting tile and spreading cement are somewhat limited, I strongly encourage you to work with a good contractor or handyman who can implement your design. Even the pre-made mantels require some carpentry to ensure stability and permanence.

Walk through your designs carefully with the person who will make it and make sure he or she understands the end result you want. Order all your materials and wait for them to be delivered to your home before you start the work so you don't get stuck in the middle of the project while you're waiting for something. Once you have everything, this project should take no more than a day or two to complete.

With this information in hand you should have enough to redesign your fireplace surround into a more appealing focal point for your home.