How To Create a Faux Log Summer Front

Whether your fireplace is out of commission for the season or more decorative than functional, you can play it up as a year-round focal point by following the example of This Old House reader and Pepper Design blogger Morgan Spenla of San Diego, California. “I liked the look of stacked logs inside but wanted something easy to remove,” she says. So with a few simple tools and materials, she built a fireplace summer front she could set aside when it was time to light up some firewood. We’ll show you how to make one of your own in this guide.

Understanding the Purpose of a Faux Log Summer Front

During the summer—when you’re not using your fireplace for heating—a faux log summer front can maintain a log-filled hearth’s cozy ambiance. It creates the illusion of stacked firewood, adding depth and texture to your room’s decor.

A faux log front can conceal an empty or unattractive firebox, making your fireplace a year-round focal point. It’s also a practical solution for nonfunctional fireplaces, allowing you to enjoy a traditional hearth’s visual appeal without any actual wood or maintenance requirements.

Materials Needed for Your DIY Faux Log Summer Front

Before you create your faux log summer front, gather the following materials and tools to ensure a smooth and efficient project execution.

Essential Wood Components

• Logs for cutting into discs (approximately 12–13 feet of wood)
• Plywood sheet (sized to fit your firebox)
• Wood glue

Tools and Supplies

• Black matte paint
• Measuring tape
• Nail gun and nails
• Paintbrush
• Safety equipment (goggles, gloves, dust mask)
• Saw (for cutting logs)

Preparing Your Workspace and Materials for a Fireplace Faux Log Front

Proper preparation is key to creating a successful faux log summer front. Take the time to select the right materials and set up your workspace safely and efficiently.

Selecting the Right Logs

Choose logs that complement your home’s decor and fireplace style. Consider factors such as color, grain pattern, and bark texture. Eucalyptus—which Spenla used in her original project—offers a light color that brightens the fireplace area. However, you can select any wood type that suits your aesthetic preferences.

When sourcing logs, ensure they are dry and free from pests or rot. You’ll need enough wood to create about 50 discs, which typically requires 12–13 feet of logs.

Sizing the Plywood Base

Measure your firebox carefully to determine how much plywood you’ll need, keeping in mind that your plywood base should fit snugly inside your firebox.

Steps for Creating a Faux Log Summer Front

Once you’ve chosen your logs and determined the appropriate amount of plywood, you can construct your faux log summer front using our step-by-step guide below.

Step 1: Cut Logs

Cut your gathered logs into 3-inch-thick discs. Spenla’s project required about 50 discs, equivalent to roughly 12–13 feet of wood.

Step 2: Prep a Piece of Plywood

Before you build your summer front, prepare your plywood base as follows:

1. Cut a piece of plywood to fit inside the firebox, allowing for any irregularities in the opening.
2. Sand the plywood edges for a smooth finish and to prevent splinters during handling.
3. Give the plywood two coats of black paint in a matte finish.
4. Let the paint dry completely.

Step 3: Attach the Faux Logs

Once your plywood base is dry, you can assemble your faux log summer front by following these steps:

1. Arrange the discs on the plywood base to fit together tightly so they appear stacked.
2. Secure each disc with wood glue and let dry.
3. Use a nail gun to secure the discs to the board from the back.
4. Place the finished front inside the firebox. Spenla tucked hers behind the lip of her fireplace’s curtain screen, but you could make a kickstand support from a triangular piece of wood if needed.

Exploring Different Patterns and Layouts

While a traditional stacked log appearance is classic, you can get creative with your disc arrangement. Consider the following ideas:

• Concentric circles for a unique, artistic look
• Herringbone pattern for a modern twist
• Incorporating bark-on edges for added texture and realism
• Mixed disc sizes for a more natural, varied appearance

Incorporating Natural Elements

Adding natural elements such as the following can make your faux log front look more authentic and cohesive with other decor elements in your home:

• Branches: Thin, decorative branches interwoven with the discs can create a more intricate and attractive display.
• Dried leaves: Place dried leaves between the log discs to fill gaps and add a touch of seasonal beauty.
• Pine cones: Scatter a few pine cones among the logs for added texture and a natural feel.

Integrating Lighting

Incorporate subtle lighting to highlight your faux log front, especially during evening hours. This will enhance its visual appeal and create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Consider the following lighting ideas:

• Fairy lights: String fairy lights through the log discs to make your arrangement sparkle.
• LED strips: Place LED strips behind the faux log front to provide a soft backlight that adds depth and ambiance.
• Spotlights: Direct small spotlights at the faux log front to accentuate its textures and patterns.

Enhancing Stability and Safety

Ensure you have securely installed your faux log front to maintain its appearance and prevent accidents and damage. Keep the following safety considerations in mind:

Fire Safety Measures

Although your faux log front is decorative, you should consider the following fire safety tips, especially if you plan to use candles or lighting elements nearby:

• Keep any flammable materials, such as dried leaves or fairy lights, at a safe distance from real flames.
• Regularly check the condition of your faux log front and its surroundings for any signs of wear or potential hazards.
• Use flameless LED candles or lights to reduce fire risk.

Reinforcing With Brackets

If needed, reinforce your faux log front with additional support brackets as follows for increased stability:

1. Attach L-shaped brackets to the back of the plywood base.
2. Secure the brackets to the sides or back of the fireplace using screws that are suitable for your fireplace material.
3. Make sure the brackets are evenly spaced to prevent any wobbling or shifting.

Maintaining and Storing Your Faux Log Front

Proper care and storage will sustain your faux log summer front for many seasons. Follow these tips to keep it looking its best:

Cleaning and Preservation Tips

• Apply a thin coat of wood preservative annually to protect against moisture and maintain the wood’s appearance.
• Avoid placing the faux log front in direct sunlight when it’s not in use to prevent fading.
• Dust the log discs regularly with a soft, dry cloth or duster.
• Use a slightly damp cloth for deeper cleaning, but be careful not to oversaturate the wood.

Offseason Storage Solutions

When it’s time to use your fireplace again, follow these steps to store your faux log front:

1. Carefully remove the faux log front from the firebox.
2. Clean it thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
3. Wrap the front in a breathable fabric or place it in a cloth storage bag to protect it from dust.
4. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Alternative Fireplace Decor Ideas for Summer

While a faux log front is an excellent summer fireplace decor option, consider the following creative alternatives to dress up your hearth during the warmer months.

Candle Arrangements

Here are a few ways to create a warm, inviting atmosphere with a candle display:

• Arrange candles on a decorative tray or fireplace grate.
• Opt for flameless LED candles for a safe, low-maintenance option.
• Use pillar candles of varying heights for visual interest.

Potted Plant Displays

Bring a touch of nature to your fireplace with a botanical arrangement as follows:

• Arrange plants of different sizes and textures for a lush, varied display.
• Choose low-light plants that thrive in indoor conditions.
• Use decorative pots or baskets that complement your decor.

Our Conclusion

Creating a faux log summer front for your fireplace is a rewarding DIY project that enhances your home’s aesthetic appeal year-round. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can craft a custom piece that transforms your unused fireplace into a stunning focal point. Remember to choose materials that complement your decor and take the time to arrange your log discs in a visually pleasing pattern.