How To Build A Cabinet Around A Hot Water Heater - ERNIEGRAVES

How to Hide Your Ugly Water Heater

Please note that the water heater featured in this post is electric. It has been brought to my attention that this might cause a fire hazard with gas water heaters. I’m not familiar with gas water heaters or the safety measures that should be taken while using one of these appliances. As a result, before embarking on this project, seek expert advice to determine whether it is appropriate for your particular use. Compliments are always appreciated, don’t you think? They have the ability to completely alter the course of events.

“Who do you think I am?

*flips it around the back of my neck* * Why, thank you very much!

Has anybody ever expressed appreciation for your hot water heater?

Really?

Is that correct?

DIY Ways to Hide Your Ugly Water Heater

Yes, it is true that your water heater is not the most visually appealing item in your home. Your family, on the other hand, is really grateful for it when it comes to its utilization. Why not look for methods to make the room more visually attractive while also eliminating the eyesore? There are a plethora of do-it-yourself options for concealing your unsightly water heater! Keep in mind that items should never be placed too near to water heaters, as this can block ventilation and create a potential fire hazard.

Curtain Covers

You can cover your unsightly water heater with this simple solution that takes only a few minutes to complete. Simply install a curtain rod and a curtain that is long enough to reach from floor to ceiling and touch. If servicing is required, you won’t have to worry about being unable to use your computer because of this rapid patch.

Faux Cabinets

If you already have cabinetry near your water heater, you can simply add a few false cabinets to extend the length of the cabinetry past the water heater. This will allow for optimal mobility throughout your room and will also eliminate the eye ache completely! Even if you don’t already have cabinets nearby, it’s simple to construct a fictitious cabinet to go around it. You may stain or paint the cabinet to fit the color scheme of the space!

Room Dividers

Room dividers are an extremely simple and virtually painless option to conceal an unsightly water heater. Simply installing a stylish room divider can do the trick in minutes. The items mentioned above may be found at practically any home or design store. Simple as taking the divider out of the box and putting it up on its own, voila! It’s simple and painless!

Plantation Shutters

Plantation shutters are a simple and inexpensive method to add texture and beauty to any room in your home.

Shutters can be hinged and custom-built to fit certain openings. The use of hinged shutters also ensures that the space remains conveniently accessible. In addition to ensuring that the space is still accessible, the gaps in the shutters will also ensure that sufficient air movement is maintained.

Pallets

Pallet this and pallet that are now popular on Pinterest. So why not use a little bit of it to cover over an unsightly water heater? In terms of hiding this enormous piece of equipment, there are several pallet solutions available on Pinterest. A beautiful shelf and other creative items, such as those seen in the image below, can be added as well. Hopefully, after seeing a few different DIY water heater concealment options, you’ll feel more confidence in implementing some of them in your own house!

BELOMAN has been in business in the Metro East for more than 60 years.

4 Ways to Hide that Unsightly Water Heater – Decorative Cover Ideas

Pallet this and pallet that are now popular on Pinterest. In order to conceal an unsightly water heater, why not use a little bit of it? When it comes to concealing this massive piece of equipment, Pinterest is a goldmine of pallet ideas. A beautiful shelf and other creative items, such as those seen in the image below, can also be added to your space. Following your viewing of a few DIY water heater concealment options, you should feel more secure in implementing some of them in your own house.

BELOMAN has been a part of the Metro East community for more than six decades.

The Three Keys of Water Heater Storage

Consider the following three aspects when selecting a concealment method: appearance, cost, and long-term dependability (durability).

Aesthetics

The more popular a room is, the more crucial it might be to make the water heater fit in with the surrounding decor and furnishings. Try to visualize how the final project will appear, and always search for materials that will blend in with the surrounding environment rather than making the tank’s position stand out like a sore thumb.

Cost

For many people, this is the most critical thing to consider. Costs might range from extremely low (curtains) to quite high (furniture) (cabinets). This component should always be addressed last since it is the sole factor that is regarded in the short term.

Durability

This component, like aesthetics, becomes increasingly significant the more popular a place becomes. A flimsy curtain would suffice for an unfinished basement or a garage that is primarily used for storage, but a finished basement or kitchen will require something that can withstand some abuse and is durable.

Water Heater Covers

There are a plethora of excellent water heater cover options available, but the most of them fall into two categories: curtains and screens.

These may be used to conceal the water heater without needing extensive remodeling work, and they are particularly well suited for use in laundry rooms, partially completed basements, and garages.

Curtains

Many excellent water heater cover designs are available, but the majority of them fall into one of two categories: curtains or screens. If you have a laundry room, basement, or garage with a partially completed basement or garage, they will conceal your water heater without requiring extensive construction work.

Screens

When it comes to choosing a stylish water heater cover, screens are the obvious choice. These dividers can be either tall standing shutters or typical divider screens, depending on the situation. Screens are lightweight and portable due to their freestanding nature. Colored paper or paint can be applied to the structures, or the structures can be left in their natural state.

Water Heater Enclosures

It is customary for screens to be used as a decorative water heater cover when the need arises. Tall standing shutters or classic divider screens can be used as room dividers. Screens are lightweight and portable due to their freestanding design. Painting, papering, or leaving the structures in their natural state are all options.

Cabinets

The use of cabinets, particularly in the kitchen or a completed basement, may provide an excellent enclosure. These cabinets are often made entirely of metal and have a somewhat more industrial appearance, while wooden cabinets are sometimes available. Some cabinets are recessed into the wall, while others have free-standing construction. Investing in a cabinet for hot water heater storage isn’t the most cost-effective alternative, but it will endure for a very long time.

Closets

One of the most frequent methods of concealing a water heater is to place it in a closet. The furnace and water heater are sometimes kept in the closets of the bedrooms in certain flats. The closet door will be identical to any other closet door, so guests will not be aware of the difference. When employing a closet configuration, you have the benefit of being able to quickly construct one around the heater or just add closet doors to an existing enclosure. It may be used in almost any part of the house, including the kitchen, without bringing attention to itself.

Comparing Closet Hiding Methods

Hiding Method	Durability	Best Rooms	Worst Rooms
Cabinet	High	Basement (finished)Garage (workspace)Kitchen	Unfinished BasementGarage (storage-only)
Closet	High	Basement (finished)Bedroom/OtherGarage (workspace)Kitchen	Garage (storage-only)
Curtain	Low	Basement (unfinished)	Basement (finished)Kitchen
Screen	Low/Moderate	Basement (unfinished)Garage (storage-only)	Kitchen

As you can see, curtains are an unpopular option, despite the fact that they are the cheapest. The rationale for this is purely cosmetic, since a curtain has less stiffness than a screen and is therefore more aesthetically pleasing. In less-frequented locations, such as unfinished basements, they are, nonetheless, the ideal choice for flooring. Alternatively, cabinets have the best durability but are too pricey to be considered for areas where aesthetics and durability are not as vital as they are in other rooms.

The fact that your water heater will be out of sight means that you will have a larger risk of missing the development of a water heater leak.

4 Ways to Hide Your Water Heater (& 3 Outdoor Options)

Are you looking for ways to conceal an unsightly water heater? A tank-style gas or electric water heater has a life expectancy of between 8 and 12 years, depending on the manufacturer’s recommended service life. That’s a long period of time to be forced to gaze at an unattractive water heater! As a result, it would be ideal if you had a dedicated storage space for it.

Furthermore, some hot water heaters are not particularly aesthetically beautiful, which might detract from the overall appearance of your home. There are four main methods for concealing a water heater in your home. This includes the following:

Install a decorative screen or room divider to conceal it
Place your water heater in a closet
Or construct a cabinet enclosure to conceal it.

The size of the water heater will determine which option you will select. They may contain anything from 20 to 120 gallons of water, with the majority of houses having a 50-gallon water heater. You will learn how to conceal your water heater in the next sections of this article.

How to Enclose a Water Heater?

The size of the water heater will determine which option you choose. A typical family has a water heater that holds 50 gallons, but they may contain anything from 20 to 120 gallons. You will learn how to conceal your water heater in the next sections of this article.

1. Curtains are a Budget-Friendly Option

The size of the water heater will influence your decision. They are available in sizes ranging from around 20 to 120 gallons, with the majority of houses having a 50-gallon tank. We’ll look at ways to conceal your water heater in your home in the sections below.

2. Incorporate a Screen or Room Divider

Due to the fact that they do not completely surround the water heater, these solutions are more like coverings. Generally speaking, there are two types of water heater covers. Curtains or screens are used to cover the windows. A simple screen may do wonders in terms of keeping the water heater out of sight from the general public. Because ornamental displays might draw attention, you might choose a more straightforward screen. Contrary to curtains, which people associate with seclusion, elegant screens draw attention and compel others to examine them since they appear to be a part of the furniture itself.

Room dividers and screens are simple to install and reasonably priced.

3. Build a Closet

Water heaters are housed in customized closets that provide a complete unit enclosure. Create a customized closet based on the measurements of the unit you are working with. The closet will undoubtedly appear out of place if it is located in a high-traffic area of your home, and this must be taken into consideration. It is possible for the closet to appear planned and contrived. Don’t forget that the main idea of concealing your water heater is to make it more discrete and in keeping with the general design of your room.

In the laundry room, basement, or even in the kitchen are some examples of where you may put it.

4. Build a Custom Cabinet

Cabinets are more discrete than closets since they are smaller. They become a little more adaptable in terms of where they may be placed without being an eyesore as a result. An unfinished basement or a kitchen are both suitable locations for cabinets, which can be either recessed or freestanding. Although a hardwood cabinet is available for purchase, many individuals choose to utilize an all-metal unit instead.

They are long-lasting, and they make greater use of available space. You may even build a water heater cabinet that you can store in a closet for further security and safety. Cabinet enclosure for use inside Enclosure for an outdoor cabinet

Other Options to Make Your Water Heater Less Noticeable

It is possible to install the water heater outside. However, you will have to pay for the construction of the structure that will contain the water heater. You will be responsible for the cost of the plumbing and piping system that will connect the outside heating enclosure to the house. Decorative outdoor water heater enclosures may be placed on your patio, deck, or garden as a focal point. The good news is that having the outdoor structure allows you to free up a significant amount of floor space within your home.

Tank water heaters should only be used indoors, not outside.
Steel Enclosure for the Outdoors It is possible to have the heater incorporated into the wall in order to keep it out of sight.
This is a notion that is recognizable to those who work in commercial buildings or hotels.
The primary difficulty with this scenario is that any damage to the heater might cause the wall to become unstable without you even realizing it.
Consider this a reverse closet, in which the water heater is situated in an inner closet but the entrance is located on the exterior.
In contrast to the tank heater, which has the heating components located within the tank.
With a tankless water heater, you can have hot water on demand rather than having to wait for it to be heated in the tank.
Tankless water heaters are available in a range of configurations, including electric and gas.

What to Consider When Hiding Your Water Heater

When you turn on the tap on an outdoor tankless water heater, the water is heated immediately by gas burners. This is in contrast to a tank heater, which has heating components built into the tank itself. Consequently, cold water enters the tank by a dip tube, where it is heated and kept until the hot water faucet is turned on. With a tankless water heater, you can have hot water on demand instead of having to wait for it to be heated in the tank. For compact spaces, tankless water heaters are an excellent option.

2. Safety

Check to verify that the enclosure is safe before entering. No sharp edges or corners should be present, as they might be dangerous in the workplace. In addition, if the enclosure is going to be outside, it should be weatherproofed. The materials that you employ in the enclosure’s construction should not come into contact with the water heater and should allow for easy access to maintain it. In order to ensure proper clearance between the heater and the enclosure, a 12-inch space should be maintained.

The water heater is almost always located in the basement of the house where it was built.

Because there is normally relatively little traffic in the region, unless the basement is in continual use, it will serve as a good hiding place unless it is in constant usage. Outdoor steel enclosures for gas water heaters are popular because they are weather resistant and provide a clean look.

3. Plumbing

Perform sure that the pipes going to the water heater are disguised but yet easily accessible in case you need to make plumbing repairs if you decide to create a bespoke enclosure.

4. Cost

Choose a pre-fabricated enclosure that is strong enough to resist the weather if you do not want to build one from scratch. Outdoor enclosures are often more expensive than interior enclosures, mostly due to the fact that the materials used to construct the enclosure must be weather-resistant. The good news is that concealing an unsightly water heater does not have to be a costly endeavor. Choose a curtain or screen rather than an enclosure and you will save a significant amount of money on your project costs.

You can build a screen at a reasonable price using inexpensive panels.

A closet or cabinet, on the other hand, does not

5. Accessibility

When concealing a water heater, it is vital that it be easily accessible. In the event that you are without hot water, you should be able to get to it for water heater maintenance or to make repairs.

6. Location

When concealing a water heater, accessibility is crucial. In the event that you are without hot water, you should be able to get to it to do water heater maintenance or make repairs.

7. Durability

The material you chose should provide you with a reasonable number of years of service. That is one of the reasons why most homeowners prefer outside steel enclosures. It is recommended that you use treated or decay-resistant wood when constructing an outdoor wood enclosure, as well as to paint the enclosure.

Conclusion

Keeping the water heater hidden It’s acceptable if you do it with the proper materials, in the proper location, and with the assistance of a professional. However, because many people do not adhere to construction code standards or utilize low-cost materials, the procedure is frequently viewed as a curse by others. When some people decide to take on a DIY project, they often end up ruining it and being stuck with an eyesore of a cabinet or closet in the most visible locations. It is generally recommended that you hire a professional to correctly enclose your water heaters.

Sources: Some Practical Guidelines for Hiding Your Water Heater in Your Home How to Install a Water Heater Enclosure DISCLAIMER: The information provided on HomeInspectionInsider.com is not intended to be professional advice.

How to Hide a Water Heater

Documentation Download Documentation Download Documentation There are several methods to conceal a water heater if it is visible from the rest of your room, but there are a few that are very attractive. In the case of a straightforward solution, a room divider may easily be used to obscure your view of the water heater. Curtains draped from your ceiling can also serve as a light and inexpensive alternative to blinds.

Building a cabinet around your water heater not only helps to keep it hidden, but it also provides you with an additional shelf of storage. No matter how you conceal your water heater, your space will immediately appear more attractive!

1 Take the height of your water heater into consideration. Start at the bottom of your water heater and stretch your measuring tape all the way up to the top of the water heater to get the whole height of the water heater. If you wish to conceal any pipes that reach up and out from the top of the water heater, make sure to include the height of those pipes as well. To ensure that you do not forget your measurement, write it down as soon as it is taken.

Additionally, you may measure the width and depth of the water heater, although these measures are not as critical as the height because you can modify the length of a room divider.

2 Purchase a room divider that allows you to totally conceal your water heater. Find multi-panel room dividers that are the right size for your area by visiting a local home goods store or shopping online. Look for a cabinet that is tall enough to cover the water heater and has the ability to wrap around the edges of the cabinet. Make an effort to pick a separator that complements the style of the rest of the room so that it does not stick out or appear out of place in your space.

If you are unable to locate a room divider that is large enough to entirely conceal the water heater, you may need to purchase more than one. Room dividers may be constructed from a variety of materials and in a variety of styles. Choose the one that best suits your needs and available space.

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s3 The room divider should be placed around your water heater. Place the room divider on its side and pull the panels apart to prevent it from falling over. Placing the divider approximately 6 inches (15 cm) in front of the water heater so that one edge of the divider is flush on the wall. Make an extension of the divider by pulling it to the other end and wrapping it around the water heater until you can’t see it any more. You can easily reach the water heater by pushing the partition up against the wall whenever you need to. Warning: Do not place the divider against a gas water heater, as this might result in a fire. Advertisement

1 Take measurements for the water heater’s width and depth. A tape measure should be extended from one wall until it reaches the outer border of the heater. (See illustration.) Measure the distance between the curtain and the water heater and add around 4 to 5 inches (10–13 cm) to it so that the curtain has some room between it and the heater. Take the depth measurement from the second wall behind the heater to the point where it reaches the furthest out from the wall. A buffer of 4–5 inches (10–13 cm) should be added to the measurement to account for errors.

Install your curtain so that it does not come into direct contact with the water heater, since this might provide a fire threat.

Calculate the height of your ceiling in steps two and three. To measure from the floor near your water heater to the ceiling, start at the bottom of the tape measure and draw it straight up. Make certain that the measuring tape is absolutely vertical, otherwise your measurement will be incorrect. Make a note of your measurement so that you don’t forget it and so that you know how long your curtain should be. 3 Purchase ceiling curtain track that is the same length as the combined width and depth of the room’s windows. With a curtain track, you may hang a curtain from the ceiling, and it is made of metal. Purchase a piece of track to be installed directly on your ceiling that is the same length and breadth as the measurements you measured before. If you want your curtain to completely encircle the water heater, use a long curtain rod.

Curtain tracks can be purchased at home improvement stores or online. If you are unable to get the precise length that you want, you can cut the track to size with a hacksaw.

4Another option is to screw a piece of curtain track to the ceiling. Placing the end of the first track portion against the wall such that it stretches out past your water heater will be the most effective solution. Check to see that the track on the ceiling is not misaligned before inserting screws into the holes along its length. Make use of an electric screwdriver to tighten the screws and ensure that the track remains in position. Tip: If you’re screwing into drywall, use anchors beforehand to prevent the track from falling out of position. Attach the curtain hooks to the first piece of track by sliding them on. Make certain that the curtain glider hooks you use are the same width as your track. Push the hook’s round end into the track and slide them all the way to the finish. Add as many hooks as you want.

Curtain glider hooks can be purchased at home improvement stores or on the internet. Hooks are available in a variety of sizes and designs. Purchase hooks that are the same color as the hardware in the rest of your room so that they don’t stick out as much.

6 Complete the installation of the remaining curtain track. Ensure that the tracks on the ceiling completely encircle your water heater before installing them. Hold the track pieces up against the ceiling and insert screws into the holes along their whole lengths to complete the installation. Before using your electric screwdriver to secure the ends of the track in place, make sure they are aligned with the component you previously placed.

6 Attach the remaining curtain track to the curtain track track track track Ensure that the tracks in the ceiling completely encircle your water heater before installing them. Hold the track pieces up against the ceiling and insert screws into the holes along their whole lengths to secure them. Before using your electric screwdriver to secure the ends of the track in place, make sure they are aligned with the piece you have placed.

7 From the curtain hooks, hang a floor-length curtain. Purchase a curtain that is the same height as your ceiling so that you can conceal the entire water heater unit from view. Make sure that the hooks are positioned at the upper border of the curtain and that it is stretched out along the track. Following the installation of all of the hooks, move the curtain along the track to cover your water heater.

Purchase a curtain that is complementary to the other types in your space so that it does not stick out or clash
Even if your curtain is a little bit taller than you require, it is quite OK since you can reduce it using hem tape.

1Take measurements for the water heater’s height, breadth, and depth. Place your tape measure on the floor beneath your water heater and stretch the tape measure all the way up to the top edge of the water heater. Then take a measurement of how far your water heater reaches out from each of the adjacent walls. Add approximately 2–3 inches (5.1–7.6 cm) to each dimension to ensure that you have enough space around the heater to move around. Record your measurements so you don’t lose track of them later on. Cut 1 in. x 4 in. (2.5 cm x 10.2 cm) boards to the lengths and widths you want. Get enough 1 in. x 4 in. (2.5 cm x 10.2 cm) timber to cut out 5 pieces that are the same height as your measurement, 3 pieces that are the same width as your measurement, and 2 pieces that are the same depth as your measurement. Make a note of it.

Using the example above, if the cabinet’s measurements are 50 by 18 by 18 inches (127 by 46 cm), you’ll need 5 parts that are 50 inches (130 cm) long, 3 pieces that are 18 inches (46 cm), and 2 pieces that are 18 inches (46 cm)
This cabinet is intended for use in conjunction with a water heater that is located in the corner. If your water heater isn’t in a corner, you’ll need 6 pieces that are the same height as the water heater, 4 pieces that are the same width as the water heater, and 2 pieces that are the same depth as the water heater.

Using the example above, if the cabinet’s measurements are 50 by 18 by 18 inches (127 by 46 cm), you’ll need five components that are 50 inches (130 cm) long, three pieces that are 18 inches (46 cm), and two pieces that are 18 inches (46 cm). With a water heater that is located in the corner, this cabinet will be of great utility. You’ll need six pieces equal to the height of your water heater, four equal to its width, and two equal to its depth if your water heater isn’t in a corner
Otherwise, you’ll need eight pieces equal to the height of your water heater, four equal to its width, and two equal to its depth.

If you’re using a gas water heater, make sure there’s enough space between the bottom of the board and the floor
Otherwise, a buildup of hazardous gas might occur. These frames are designed to fit around a water heater that is located in the corner of a room. If your water heater isn’t in a corner, you’ll need to create three frames instead.

Gas water heaters can generate a buildup of hazardous gas if they are not properly vented, so always leave enough space between the bottom of the board and the floor. In the corner of a room, these frameworks fit around a water heater. Create three frames instead of two if your water heater isn’t in the corner.

If you want your cabinet to have a more beautiful appearance, you may also use fabric.

5 Using the corner screws, join the frames together to form an L-shape. Placing the frames upright on their legs and arranging them so that they create a straight angle is the first step. To ensure that the wood parts do not move, clamp them together using clamps and then screw them together. A screw should be placed every 4–5 inches (10–13 cm) to ensure that the cabinet doesn’t come apart.

If your water heater is not in a corner, you may build a U-shape out of your cabinet by adding a third frame to it.

Make use of pocket holes if you don’t want the screws to be visible once the project is completed. 6 Add a rear support leg to the back of your cabinet. Install an angle bracket to the top corner of the cabinet and clamp the final short piece to it to keep it in place. The last long piece of wood you cut is used to attach itself to the end of the short piece of wood so that it is secured in place. When the cabinet is constructed, the second leg will provide more stability, allowing you to place greater weight on top of it.

Make use of pocket holes if you don’t want the screws to be visible once the project is complete. 6 A rear support leg should be attached to your cabinet. Install an angle bracket to the top corner of the cabinet and clamp the last little piece to it to keep it in place. Using your final long piece of wood, screw it onto the end of your short piece of wood to keep it in place while you finish your project. When the cabinet is constructed, the second leg will provide more stability, allowing you to place greater weight on top of it.

7 Attach plywood or wood planks to the top of the cabinet using nails. Measure the top of your cabinet to determine the measurements of the top piece that will be cut off. Either a series of 1 in. x 4 in. (2.5 cm x 10.2 cm) boards or a single sheet of plywood can be used to construct this structure. Using a circular saw, cut the pieces to size and nail them together every 4 inches (10 cm) along the edge of the cabinet to secure the top piece

Make certain that the top of your cabinet does not come into contact with any pipes, otherwise it may not fit well in the area.

8 To conceal your water heater, slide the cabinet over it from above. Make sure the open end of the cabinet is towards the water heater and that the two paneled sides of the cabinet are facing out. Continue to slowly lift your cabinet over the water heater. The boards or plywood you placed on top of the cabinet may be used to create a shelf to hold goods in the room

To cover your water heater, slide the cabinet over top of it. 8 The cabinet should be placed such that it faces the water heater and its two paneled sides should be facing outwards. Slowly lift your cabinet over the water heater and into position. To store objects in the room, use the planks of plywood you placed on top of the cabinet as shelves.

Things You’ll Need

Cutting tape
Ceiling curtain track
Electric screwdriver
Curtain hooks
Floor-length curtain
Measuring tape

Planks of plywood, 1 in x 4 in (2.5 cm x 10.2 cm) boards, a hand saw, a measuring tape, wood screws, a cordless screwdriver, wood staples, a stapler, nails, a hammer

About This Article

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Several years ago, I renovated my laundry room and devised a plan for concealing our hot water heater, which I shared with my husband. However, users are continuously searching for the information on my blog and requesting that I re-post it as our family has now sold our house, and I have updated my site as a result. So, here is an extremely shortened version of the laundry room redesign that I completed for the Spring 2017 One Room Challenge, which includes my DIY water heater cover that I created.

If you want to remain in your house for an extended period of time, you may want to consider getting a tankless hot water heater or relocating your existing hot water tank.

Ideas for Hiding a Hot Water Heater

Add a Closet to Your Home If you have the necessary room, you may hire a contractor to put up drywall and install a door for you. In the event that your home requires plumbing maintenance, one advantage of having a closet is that you will always be able to reach the hot water heater quickly and conveniently. This is also the most likely choice for reselling your property in the future. If you don’t want to pay a contractor, the blogTwelve on Mainhas a great instructions for building a beautiful shiplap closet that you can follow yourself. Even though this closet takes up less space than a dry wall closet, it provides the convenience of a door for access. Make a Hot Water Cover or a Hot Water Cabinet. If you want something that is less permanent than a closet, building a cabinet is an excellent solution. The blogWoodshop Diariesprovides step-by-step instructions on how to build furniture.

How to Hide a Hot Water Heater with a DIY Screen

The very first thing I did was gather all of my materials and equipment. I had nails, a hammer, staples, and a staple gun on hand to complete the project. After that, I made the following purchases: a total of six furring strips, which are essentially pieces of wood measuring 1 2 3 4 inches by 8 inches by 8, fabric, two hinges, and white spray paint I was pleasantly delighted to see that I was able to construct the screen for less than $20! If you use a low-cost fabric for this craft, it will be fairly inexpensive overall.

After cutting the furring strips, I sprayed them with white spray paint.

Spring 2017 One Room Challenge

Getting all of my stuff together was the first thing I did. My tools of the trade were nails, a hammer, staples, and a staple gun. The following items were then added to my cart: a total of six furring strips, which are essentially pieces of wood measuring 1 2 x 8, fabric, two hinges, and a coat of white spray paint I was pleasantly thrilled to discover that I could construct the screen for less than $20! The cost of this project is really low if you use cheap cloth. Following my shopping expedition, I measured the size of each screen that I would want and cut the furring strips to the appropriate height and breadth.

Using a spray paint can, I spray painted the furring strips white once they were cut. I attached the shorter furring strips to the shorter furring strips once the paint had completely dried.

Before

While I was quite grateful to have a functional laundry room, there were numerous features of the area that I had had been different in my opinion.

I wanted to put a cover over my hot water heater, but I couldn’t. My laundry room needed more space for hampers so that I could arrange my dirty clothes and divide them into loads
I wanted to paint the yellow walls white
I wanted to replace the carpet.

ORC Week 2

The first thing I did was just clear out the laundry room and paint it a bright white color to start off with. It had already made a significant difference.

ORC Week 3

Throughout the next week, I constructed a table on which I placed two full-size hampers and two smaller baskets to build a laundry organizing system for the house. From that point on, my laundry room was truly a useful area to have around the house.

ORC Week 4

Over the course of the fourth week, I concealed my hot water heater with the ornamental water heater cover that I previously mentioned.

ORC Week 5

During the fifth week, I removed the old vinyl flooring and replaced it with new white vinyl floor tiles. Besides that, I bought a woven vinyl rug and gathered decorative objects for the final week of the project.

ORC Week 6

The space behind the washer and dryer has been blocked off with a ledge that I created during the previous week. Plants and containers for washing detergent and dryer sheets were added to the mix. Aside from that, I made a DIY letter board and hung one of my fave Elisabeth Elliot statements on work on it:)

ORC Laundry Room Reveal Pictures

We have now moved out of this house, which has been our home for two years. However, my overall impression of the ORC is quite favorable. What I learned from this experience is that no matter what sort of area I have, with a little forethought and hard effort, I can transform it into a pleasurable and practical environment. Consider attending the ORC Spring 2017 Conference if this is something that interests you!

How to Enclose a Water Heater

The majority of the time, the water heater in a home is located in the basement. Allowing the water heater to be visible in the basement after it has been finished so that it may be utilized for another purpose might distract from the overall aesthetic of the space. Constructing a utility closet and a wall around the water heater will allow you to keep the water heater protected from the elements.

Planning the Enclosure

You want to limit the size of the enclosure to a minimum in order to optimize the amount of room available in the remainder of the basement, but the walls of the enclosure cannot be placed more than six inches away from the water heater. The Concrete Network recommends that you create a buffer zone between your water heater and the walls that is large enough to allow you or a repairman access around the whole water heater in order to perform maintenance or repair work. If you’re changing your water heater, you’ll also need twin doors on one of the walls, rather than a single door, to allow you to carry your old water heater out of the enclosure and your new water heater into the enclosure without running into each other.

Framing the Walls

The use of two-by-fours to construct a robust wall structure helps ensure that the enclosure is both strong and long- enduring. Cut a top plate and a bottom plate that are the same length as the walls in order to create the walls that do not include the double doors. Using the top and bottom plates as guides, cut wall studs to fit between them, and then assemble by nailing the studs together between the two plates. Keep the studs no more than 16 inches away from one another. Place the frames in their final positions and nail the top plates to the ceiling joists.

The end studs of the enclosure walls should be attached to the concrete foundation wall with masonry screws if you’re utilizing the concrete foundation wall as one of the enclosure walls.

Framing the Doorway

It is possible to ensure that the enclosure is robust and long lasting by constructing a solid wall frame out of two by fours. Cut a top plate and a bottom plate that are the same length as the walls to be used in the construction of the walls that do not feature double doors. Remove top and bottom plates from the wall frame and nail the studs into place between the two plates to assemble the framing. A maximum of 16 inches should be left between each stud to avoid a sagging ceiling. In order to prevent warping, attach the frames to the ceiling joists at the top and bottom.

The end studs of the enclosure walls should be attached to the concrete foundation wall with masonry screws if you’re utilizing the concrete foundation wall as one of your enclosure walls.

Finishing the Enclosure

Using drywall screws, attach sheets of 1/2-inch drywall to the exterior of the wall frame on the outside of the wall frame. If you have a gas water heater, you will need to cut air vents into the walls to allow for ventilation. One vent hole should be 12 inches from the floor in one wall, and the second vent hole should be 12 inches from the ceiling in the next wall, if possible. To paint the drywall, apply two coats of primer and allow the priming to dry completely before painting the drywall with two coats of paint.

According to Ask the Builder, prehung doors are doors that have been pre-hung on a frame by the manufacturer.

DIY Water Heater Covers (5 Different Kinds)

You’ve grown tired of staring at your obnoxious water heater. Do you think it detracts from the overall look of your home? Water heaters are a fantastic piece of engineering. Water heaters, on the other hand, do not have a fashionable appearance, unlike many other modern equipment. It was 1868 that the first water heater was invented, and the aesthetics haven’t altered much since then. The environment in which we live should be pleasing to the eye and comfortable to inhabit. However, because we are unable to prevent the installation of an unsightly but necessary water heater, our best alternative is to conceal it.

Five Different DIY Water Heater Covers

We’ve gathered all of the knowledge you’ll need to protect your water heater both successfully and stylishly in our research. The following are the most widely used and successful remedies.

1.Curtains

Basements or garages that are exclusively used for storage work best in this situation.

Kitchens, completed basements, and bedrooms are the worst places to get mold.

Curtains are the most affordable and straightforward technique of concealing your water heater. They are simple to install and are available in a plethora of designs. Aside from that, if you get dissatisfied with the design, it is simple to swap them out for other ones. All that is required is the purchase and installation of a curtain rod that is appropriate for the area to be covered. If you like a more subdued appearance, use a curtain fabric that complements the surrounding environment. Traditional cloth curtains aren’t the only options available for a window treatment.

Curtains are inexpensive, but they do not necessarily look attractive. As a result, it is preferable to place them in a portion of the house that is not frequently frequented. Curtains, on the other hand, are the least expensive option, despite their low aesthetic and durability ratings. You

2.Room Dividers

It works well in: unfinished basements or a garage that is only used for storage.

Another inexpensive and extremely simple technique for concealing your water heater is to use a room divider. The only thing you have to do is pick the one you want and set it up; everything else is taken care of. The majority of them are imported from Asia, and the variety appears to be limitless. There are many different materials to pick from, including wood, cloth, and glass. In addition, there are portable, fixed, collapsible, and even hanging and roll-up models available to choose from.

Room dividers are inexpensive, but you may not want to put them on display.

3.Pallets

It is due to their extraordinary versatility that pallets have grown increasingly popular in recent years. They can be used as tables, shelves, or organizers, depending on their size. They may, however, also be used to cover a water heater if necessary. Because pallets are constructed of wood, you’ll need to utilize the boards that came with them to construct your cover. Then, using a hammer, pound the boards together to form a barrier in the place you want to conceal. It will have the appearance of a rustic room divider, but it will be far less expensive because pallets may be discovered as free scrap material.

You should avoid placing your pallet screen in the most heavily trafficked areas of your home unless you can find a method to make it fit in with the current decor.

4.Faux Cabinet or Closet

Finished basements, bedrooms, kitchens, or a garage that doubles as a work space are the best places to put this.

The worst places to have a leak are unfinished basements or garages that are solely utilized for storage.

A false cabinet or closet is one of the most popular solutions since it is both functional and attractive. If you already have a structure in place, such as a closet, adding an extra door will seem natural. No one will suspect that it is being used to conceal a water heater. If you wish to develop your own version of this solution, you will need some technical knowledge. If you enjoy working with wood, you should give it a shot. It is also a more permanent solution when compared to other options such as curtains or room partitions.

Therefore, you may think of it as a one-time investment.

While imitation cabinetry or other similar items are available,

5.Plantation Shutters

Finished basements, bedrooms, kitchens, or a garage that doubles as a work space are the best places to put this.

The worst places to have a leak are unfinished basements or garages that are solely utilized for storage.

Plantation shutters are a type of false cabinet or closet that is similar to real cabinets or closets. They provide a sense of refinement to your home while also increasing its worth. Plantation shutters are another another long-lasting and permanent option to consider. The materials used to construct them include wood, PVC, foamed synthetics, and medium density fiber. You may also pick sliding ones according on your requirements or personal choice. The most popular are those that are manufactured to order.

It would be a waste to utilize them in a garage or an unfinished basement because they are so large. Plantation shutters, like cabinets, have a nice appearance but will cost you extra money. However, if you are remodeling and only want to make a one-time investment, they may be worth your while.

We’ve Got You Covered

We’ve covered some of the most common techniques for concealing an unattractive water heater in this article. You have the option to select what you want based on your requirements. If you need a fast, temporary solution, you may purchase some inexpensive drapes to conceal your heater. Permanent solutions, on the other hand, may be preferable if you’re conducting extensive renovation and want the most visually acceptable option. To get started, faux closets and plantation shutters would be excellent choices.

Do you have any queries or suggestions on how to cover a water heater that you’d like to share with us?

If so, which ones?