Custom fireplace surround workshop
Make timber, stone or concrete fireplace surrounds and hearths to order for builders, designers and homeowners.
- A$15k-60k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Estimates for a small start in Australia, not guarantees.
What it is
A small workshop that designs and builds fireplace surrounds, mantels, hearths and fittings to measure, in materials like timber, stone, concrete or tile, and often delivers or arranges installation.
Your first three steps
- Choose one or two materials to specialise in and price a few sample designs
- Find a small workshop unit and price the key machinery and tools you need
- Show your samples to local builders, designers and fireplace retailers and ask for a trial job
Who pays
Homeowners renovating, builders, interior designers and developers fitting out new homes or apartments.
How it makes money
A quoted price per custom piece, based on materials and labour, plus extra for delivery and installation. Repeat work from builders and designers helps keep the workshop busy.
Skills that help
- Joinery, stonework or concrete casting
- Reading plans and measuring accurately
- Quoting and dealing with trades and designers
Watch out for
- Public liability and product liability insurance, as the product sits near heat
- Check the Australian Standards and building rules on clearances to combustible materials, and how they apply to your designs
- Check with your local council about zoning and approval for a workshop, including dust and noise limits
- Workers compensation insurance once you hire, and safe handling of dust, heavy stone and machinery
🔒 Full research report for Australia
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to start a fireplace surround workshop?
Startup costs are typically around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on workshop space, machinery and materials. Monthly revenue is estimated at around $6,000 to $25,000, depending on orders from builders, designers and homeowners.
What rules should I check before making fireplace surrounds?
Check Australian Standards and building rules on clearances to combustible materials and how they apply to your designs, plus public liability and product liability insurance. Also check council zoning and approval for a workshop, including dust and noise limits.
What skills and time are needed to run a fireplace surround workshop?
Useful skills include joinery, stonework or concrete casting, accurate measuring and reading plans. Estimates suggest at least around 30 hours a week. Check workers compensation insurance once you hire, and safe handling of dust, heavy stone and machinery.
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