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Life · Home & design · published 2026-08-17 · via Apartment Therapy

Wood Cover Transforms Dated Brick Fireplace Without Removal

A homeowner updated a dated 1970s brick fireplace by drilling a wooden cover over the bricks, avoiding paint or removal. The project cost about $400 and used a hammer drill and masonry screws. The result gave the fireplace more character and a mantle-like definition.

Expanded Detail

The renovation sidestepped the messy and costly routes of demolition or painting. Instead, the homeowner secured a wooden facade directly onto the existing masonry using a hammer drill and masonry screws, keeping the total project cost near $400.

This approach provided a distinct architectural element, giving the fireplace a defined mantle-like ledge. The addition added character to the dated 1970s brick structure without altering its underlying material, offering a reversible alternative to permanent changes.

Context

This cost-effective, non-destructive technique could influence homeowners seeking to modernize dated interiors without major construction. It may appeal to those wary of permanent alterations or high renovation costs. By offering a relatively simple DIY solution, it could encourage more frequent updates to living spaces, potentially affecting the home improvement market and the perceived value of older brick features.

Expanded detail and Context are AI-generated analysis; the linked article remains the authoritative source.
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This summary is Al-enhanced to contain extended analysis and broader social context. The original is {NAME); the linked article is the authoritative source. Original headline: “They Didn't Rip Out Their Dated '70s Fireplace — They Built Around It.” Browse more stories.