How to Build a Fire Media Wall
A fire media wall is an ideal method to add warmth and comfort your home. They can be built on a stud wall or hang from it using brackets.
Some wall electric fires on the media are smartly integrated that lets you manage the output of heat, flame effects and lighting using your smartphone or tablet. Some even come with scheduling options.
Easy to install
When you are considering building a fire media wall in your home, there are many factors you will need to take into consideration. First, you'll need to decide on where the wall will be placed in your space. It should be placed in a spot where you can relax and watch a show or enjoy the warmth of your fireplace. The location should also offer the most optimal viewing angles for the room. After you have chosen the best location, you can start to make the necessary measurements and build the frame. The next step is to decide on the finishing details. For example, some people choose to put a skirting board in their media walls, so that they are in keeping with the room's decor. Some prefer to leave it off leaving the media wall to stand alone.
Based on the kind of electric fire you're planning to install the wall you're planning to install, it may require a bit more work than other fireplaces. For instance, inset media wall fires (such as the Vision Futura 1500 or Evonic Halo 1500 XT) require to be built into the wall or hollowed out that requires more tools and construction skills. However, this doesn't mean that they are not able to be installed by a DIYer.
When you are installing a media wall it is essential to think about the best place to put your electrical components. You will need to ensure your wall is equipped with at least two sockets for plugs - one for the fire and one for the TV. So you'll need to plan where these will be beforehand. Some people prefer to put the sockets inside the wall frame with studs while others prefer to keep them close to the TV and fireplace.
After you've constructed your media wall, it's important to smooth the plasterboard over it. This will hide the screws used to hold it in place, and provide a smooth surface for painting. If you're not confident about doing this by yourself it's always a good idea to contact a plasterer assist.
Ideal for smaller rooms
A media wall is an elegant design that is ideal for smaller living spaces. The combination of television, electric fire and integrated storage space into one space allows you to maximize your room without the requirement for an additional fireplace suite or bulky surround. You can also choose a bespoke design that's completely customized to your space and incorporates the latest technology like multi-room audio and smart lighting.
A bespoke media wall can be constructed around the choice of an electric fire and adds a unique design element to your room. You can pick from a range of styles and sizes to find the perfect fire for your media installation. For a minimalistic design, you can opt for an inset electric fire that is recessed such as the Elfa or, if you're trying to create a cozy corner with a corner wall with a 3 sided fire like the Gazco eReflex 150RW is the perfect choice.
The DRU Virtuo180/3 Evolve Electric Fire, for example, offers a modern aesthetic that is ideal for modern living spaces. They have a realistic log effect and produce an authentic wood-crackling sound effect. You can also pick a wall with a media wall that has back heat-up features that allows warmth to be distributed more efficiently and evenly.
Another benefit of an electric wall-hung fire for your media wall is the low maintenance. Contrary to traditional fireplaces wall-hung fireplaces don't require chimneys and can be installed almost anywhere. They're also safer in homes with children or pets because they don't produce real flames and don't release ash. Electric heaters are more secure than gas heaters since they don't create real flames or emit the ash.
Many homeowners go beyond the basic idea of putting your TV on an unfinished surface. They build bespoke frames to conceal cables, integrate storage solutions, and integrate appliances such as TV, soundbar and an electric fireplace. Often, these installations are created to help segment large open spaces or create a striking focal feature to the room. They can be decorated using beautiful wallpapers or mirrored panels that act as mirrors when the TV is turned off. This will brighten your room and make it feel more spacious.
Aesthetically pleasing
Media wall fires can be a fantastic alternative to traditional fireplaces which are typically only used in living areas. They are also perfect for anyone who wants to add a stylish feature to their home. The most modern electric media wall fires use LED lights to create an amazing realistic flame effect and have different settings, allowing you to change the intensity of the light from a warm and cosy glow to a bright and roaring fire. Some have 'flame only settings that allow you to enjoy the stunning visuals without cranking up the temperature, making them eco-friendly and cost-effective.
Media walls have a modern design and are made to complement your interior décor creating an attractive focal point that attracts attention. Media walls are often used in modern homes to enhance any style. They can be an elegant minimalist design or a rustic and earthy style. A striking wood-panelled, geometric wall is a perfect example of a striking design that can be accentuated with an electric wall fire like the Gazco eReflex the 195RW to bring warmth and charm to the room.
A lot of electric media wall fires are made to be thinner in depth, allowing you to make the most of your living spaces. They are ideal for those who wish to install media walls in a smaller space since they can be hidden behind the TV to create a minimal, discreet and contemporary look. They also tend to be more energy efficient than traditional gas fireplaces, with most models producing less than 2kW of heat.
It is crucial to think about the design of your media wall in a holistic manner and think about how your electric fire will work with your TV as well as other bespoke features you might have in mind. To achieve a balanced look, your electric fire should not exceed greater than one-third of the height of the wall it is installed on. Make sure that you have adequate space above and below the electric fire. This will differ based on which model you choose.
Media wall fire installation is a job that is achievable by most homeowners with basic carpentry skills and a desire to learn. However, it is best to select an experienced HETAS approved installer, such as Something Different, who will make sure that all safety precautions are in place and that the correct clearance from fire-prone materials is maintained.
Multi-faceted
A media wall can be an ideal addition to any living room, lounge or bedroom and it's not just about creating a stunning focal point. A well-designed wall can create a relaxing atmosphere for you and your family to unwind in. It also provides a perfect space for your television and audio equipment as well as gaming consoles.
A fire in your wall for media could elevate it to the next level and really transform your home. A lot of the best electric fires can be used to build media walls and offer the perfect balance of warmth, ambiance and design. These electric fires also have certain unique features, such as customisable visuals or authentic crackling sound.
There are also models that have smart integration, allowing you to control your fire using your tablet or smartphone with an app. This can be useful if you are out of the house or want to control your fire remotely. Certain advanced models come with scheduling options that allow you to schedule the fire to start when you get home and turn it off when you go to bed.
A media wall electric fireplace can also be set up in a false chimney without the need for a flue or chimney. This is an affordable way to incorporate modern heating options to your home.
There are two main types of electric fires that you can put in the media wall: wall-mounted and inset. Inset electric fireplaces like the Vision Futura 1500 or the Evonic Halo 1500 XT are designed to be recessed in the wall. This gives them a sleek and modern appearance. They are ideal for rooms with limited space or for those who want minimalist design.
If you're considering installing a media wall for your home, the first step is to measure up the wall to make sure it's large enough to accommodate the size of electric fire you want to fit. You can use masking tape to outline the dimensions of the wall, and then compare your measurements with specifications of the product to determine the best match.