How to Build a Brick Hearth

Contributor

By Meg Jernigan
eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (1 Ratings)

Enon Hall, Home Depot

A brick hearth is an attractive, classic addition to any room with a wood stove or fireplace. The hearth protects the floor from errant embers that could burn wood or scorch carpet. Bricks can be laid in rows or herringbone patterns or in a combination of colors and patterns that add visual interest to the hearth. Building a brick hearth is a simple process that can be completed in an afternoon by a novice handyman.

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Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Lumber
Bricks
Mortar
Concave jointer

Step 1

Clean the surface of the floor where you will build the hearth. Remove carpet, tile or linoleum and scrape up glue residue.
Step 2

Build a temporary frame for the bricks. When measuring for the frame, remember to allow about 1/2 inch between each brick for mortar. Set the frame where you will build the hearth.
Step 3

Lay the bricks inside the frame without mortaring them to make sure they fit and that the pattern you choose fits the room's decor.
Step 4

Mix the mortar. Don't mix more than you can use in two hours. If the mortar starts to set, add a little water and remix it.
Step 5

Lay a bed of mortar in the bottom of the frame. Set the bricks in the mortar and tap them lightly to set them in place. Leave a gap between the bricks for grout. Use a level to make sure all the bricks are the same height.
Step 6

Scrape mortar into the gaps between the bricks and use a dowel, rod or concave jointer to smooth out the seams and remove air pockets. Let the hearth cure for 36 hours before continuing.
Step 7

Remove the frame from the bricks. Finish the sides with tile or mosaic for a decorative touch or use molding around the brick.

Tips & Warnings

Dampen the bricks the day before you intend to use them so they don't absorb the mortar. Wipe up spills before the mortar has a chance to set.
Make sure the floor is sturdy enough for the weight of the hearth.