How to Build a DIY Stone Fireplace Wall with Electric Insert

Why Build a Stone Fireplace Wall with an Electric Insert?

A built-in electric fireplace gives you all the ambiance of a real fire without the mess.

Plus, adding a barn wood mantle and stylish faux stone fireplace wall creates a high-end look without the high-end price tag. 

If you prefer a different aesthetic, a shiplap fireplace is another great option that brings a modern farmhouse feel. 

Let’s be honest, a wood burning fireplace with a working chimney isn’t always in the cards so this is a great alternative!

Materials:

• Electric fireplace insert (like this one)
• Cement board
• Faux stone veneer (we used Airstone ledger stone)
• Thin-set mortar (Simple Set premixed)
• Rustic wood beam for the wood mantle (like this one)
• Rebar for mounting the mantle (you can get this at Home Depot or Lowes)
• TV mount (we like this one because it also swivels)
• Optional: Shiplap boards for a DIY shiplap fireplace alternative

Tools:

• Level & laser level
• Trowel
• Tile saw (if cutting stone)
• Drill
• Tape measure

Step 1: Cutting the Opening for the Electric Insert

Determine what part of the wall you want to install your fireplace. In our case, we centered it in the middle of the living room wall.

Since our fireplace built-ins needed a built-in insert, Jim cut an opening in the drywall large enough to fit the electric fireplace insert, which was about 4-6 inches deep. 

Preferably, you want your fireplace insert to sit flush with the wall.

If you’re installing this on an existing wall, be sure to check for studs and electrical wiring before cutting. 

If you’re adding an electric fireplace, consider hiring an electrician to install an outlet behind it for a clean, cord-free look.

Pro Tip: Always double-check the dimensions of your fireplace insert before cutting!

Step 2: Prepping the Wall for Stone

Once the insert was secured, Jim installed cement board (Durrock is a common brand) over the wall to provide a sturdy base for the stone veneer. 

You will want to apply your stone to cement board, not sheetrock!

Step 3: Installing the Faux Stone

We chose Airstone ledger stone because it’s lightweight and super easy to install.

We also had used this stone prior for our DIY driveway columns a couple years ago and it was so easy to install!

If you prefer a farmhouse-style faux fireplace, using white shiplap fireplace paneling instead of stone is a great option!

How to Install Faux Stone Veneer:

Start by making a straight line using a level to ensure your first row of stone is straight.

You will want to draw a straight line on the edge where your stone will end and along the floor, indicating your first row to be installed.

You will notice that the end pieces are (rounded) for a finished look. If you purchase ledger stone like we did, you will need to purchase end pieces.

Apply thin-set mortar to the back of each stone piece using a trowel. 

Press the stone firmly onto the cement board, starting from the bottom and working your way up. 

Use a laser level to keep everything straight. 

Cut stone pieces as needed with a tile saw for clean edges.

Pro Tip: Stagger your stone pieces to create a natural look!

Step 4: Adding a Rustic Barn Wood Mantle

A barn wood mantle adds warmth and character to the fireplace. 

We found a beautiful reclaimed wood beam for under $300 at a local salvage yard.

You can also buy one online, like this. Just be sure to purchase the correct size. Ideally, your mantel would be 3-6″ wider than the fireplace opening.

How to Mount the Mantle:

The first step is to locate the studs in the wall to determine where the rebar will be drilled through the stone.

Insert rebar anchors into the studs of the wall and through the stone (unless you add the rebar first and plan to tile around it)

Measure the distance between the 2 pieces of rebar and then measure the same distance on your mantle.

Drill holes in the back of the beam.

Fill the holes in the mantle with construction adhesive and slide it onto the rebar. 

Let it set for 24 hours before adding decor!

Related Post: See how we installed a much heavier mantel using rebar on an existing stone wood burning fireplace for more details.

Step 5: Mounting the TV & Hiding Wires

To keep things sleek, install a TV mount and install electrical outlets directly behind the TV to hide any visible cords.

This keeps the fireplace with TV looking polished and professional.

Pro Tip: Use a cord cover or in-wall cable kit if you don’t have an outlet behind your TV.

I absolutely LOVE how this stone electric fireplace turned out and this otherwise boring wall, now has a beautiful focal point! 

The mix of gray stone and warm brown tones from the wood mantle gives the perfect balance of rustic and modern.