How to Spruce Up a Fireplace With Ceramic-Tile Surround

Adding a ceramic-tile surround is an easy weekend project. Follow these step-by-step instructions.

Filed under: Tile, Fireplace, How To

The fireplaces in newer homes are often rather plain, with a simple metal firebox but no surround or mantel. Adding a ceramic-tile surround is an easy weekend project that can spruce up any fireplace.

Materials:

Measuring tape
Pencil
Level
Tile cutter
1/8" notched trowel
Grout float
Clean sponge and rag
Ceramic tile
Pre-mixed grout and adhesive

Decide on a pattern to use and lay it out on a flat surface.

Put down a drop cloth to protect the floor. Also apply blue painters' tape along the edge of the project to protect the walls.

Remove any molding around the firebox if it won't be part of the design.

Use sandpaper to take the sheen off the wall.

Use a level and straightedge to draw layout lines on the wall.

Find a fixed location to start in, then work your way outward.

Use a notched trowel to apply mastic. For best results, hold the trowel at about a 45-degree angle. Mastic can also be applied to the back of individual tiles. It sets up quickly, so apply it a little at a time.

Use a tile cutter to cut your pieces to size; start the installation at the top, and work your way downward so that the cut tiles will be against the floor.

Check the adhesive label for drying time before grouting. Most adhesives dry within 24 hours.

After the adhesive dries, use a screwdriver or other sharp tool to clean out the excess adhesive from the grout lines.

Apply the grout with a rubber grout float. Use the edge of the float to force the grout into the joints. Start at the top of the project and work down.