How to Build a Cultured Stone Fireplace Surround

You can reface an old brick fireplace surround with the beautiful look of cultured stone. Consider rough stone for a rustic look or smoother stone for a more traditional feel. Plan your layout using a paper template, then remove the old surround and attach a layer of wire mesh to give your mortar something to grip as it dries. Next, apply mortar to the backs of your stones and attach them to the wire mesh based on the design of your template.