How to build a fake wall for TV and electric fireplace 

Installing an electric fireplace in your living space adds elegance to your home’s aesthetic and makes it cozier. However, you can make your living space even more attractive by building a fake wall for the electric fireplace and TV. After all, this is one of the popular interior design trends in most homes across the United States. Thanks to its ability to combine an electric fireplace and a flat screen tv into a beautiful and usable feature. 

At the same time, building a fake wall for your TV and electric fireplace will add value and character to your home. And create an eye-catching focal point in your living space. 

But how do you build a fake wall for TV and electric fireplace? What are some of the tools and materials needed for this project? 

This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to build a fake electric fireplace and TV wall to help you do it yourself! 

Tools & Materials Needed for this Project 

• Compound miter saw 
• Brad nailer 
• Impact driver & drill 
• Quick clamps 
• Magnetic stud finder 
• Primer 
• Paint
• Paintbrush and roller
• Level 
• Sander and sandpaper 
• 2X 4 Studs
• 2 X 6 studs 
• Drywall screws 
• 3 ½” wood screws 
• ¾” plywood
• Drywall mud 
• Fire-rated drywall 
• Utility knife 
• Mesh drywall tape
• Corner drywall tape
• Recessed electric fireplace 
• TV 
• TV mount kit 

How to build a fake wall for TV and electric fireplace 

Step 1: Choose a location for the electric fireplace wall

The first step is to choose the right location for your electric fireplace since it needs a power outlet. More notably, you should choose an area that is the focal point for your electric fireplace. 

Step 2: Find the best electric fireplace insert 

While there is a wide variety of electric fireplaces on the market, not every model will look great in your home. For that reason, you should take your time to find an electric fireplace insert that works effectively and matches your home decor. At the same time, make sure you check out the features of various models to make an informed decision. More importantly, check the dimensions of various electric fireplace models until you find one that will fit your room perfectly. 

Step 3: Build the base 

After determining the right location for your electric fireplace TV wall, start by building the base to support the frame. Tighten each screw properly to ensure that the electric fireplace base is stable enough to support the frame adequately. 

Step 4: Build the electric fireplace and TV framing

In this project, we’ll be using 2 X 6 lumber to build the TV and electric fireplace framing. That said, cut all your 2 X 6 lumber pieces that you’ll use to create the frame structure with a miter saw and lay it out on a flat surface. Once everything is in place, start assembling the front of the electric fireplace using pocket holes and 3 1⁄2” wood screws. Then assemble the frame around the fireplace and add back supports to the top and bottom of the frame to ensure it rests comfortably against the wall. 

Step 5: Cover the base with plywood 

Cut down every piece of plywood to its size using a table saw and connect them to the left and right sides of the fireplace. Lastly, install a piece of plywood on the front of your electric fireplace and the top at the end. 

Step 6: Install the TV and electric fireplace framing around the base and wall 

Once the electric fireplace and TV framing are assembled, lift it and slide it into place. Make sure the framing structure is level and use nails screws or pocket holes to attach it to the base. Similarly, fix the frame to the wall studs using the 3 1⁄2” wood screws. 

Step 7: Install the TV wall mount 

Although placement for the TV mount is different for every TV mount, I recommend installing it perfectly at the center of the cutout. More importantly, you should ensure that the TV mount is installed at the correct height, depending on the width and size of the TV. 

Step 8: Cover the frame with plywood and fire-rated drywall

Using a brad nail gun, cover your electric fireplace framing with plywood, including the fronts and sides until the entire frame is completely covered. Once you’ve done that, install drywall on the interior of the TV opening and the front face of the unit to cover all parts of the framing. 

Step 9: Install a mantel to the top of your electric fireplace 

Before you start cutting the length of the mantel, set plywood on the top section of the frame and mark the area you’ll cut on both sides. Next, make the necessary adjustments and fasten it with a Brad nailer and Brad nails. 

Step 10: Fill in the seams 

Fill any nail holes or seams that the trimmings cannot cover with wood filler. This ensures that the frame is smooth and free of sharp edges. Alternatively, you can use mesh tape to fill in any seams on the front face of the fake wall and cover the seams with drywall mud. And for the corner seams, you can use corner drywall tape and drywall mud to fully cover the seams. 

Step 11: Sand down and paint the frame 

Once the drywall mud has dried, sand down the entire surface to ensure all seams are smooth. Remove the drywall dust from the fireplace insert with a wet or dry vacuum. Wipe the surface with a damp cloth to prepare it for paint. 

Step 12: Prime and paint 

Apply a primer on all the drywall surfaces, before painting the frame with your desired paint color. Let the paint dry for about 24 hours before installing your electric fireplace insert and TV.