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How to Install Tile for a Fireplace Surround

How to Install Tile for a Fireplace Surround thumbnail
Installing tile for a fireplace surround is fairly easy.

Is your fireplace looking tired and outdated? Instead of just painting it, why not install tile for a fireplace surround? It only takes a few days and is definitely worth the effort. There are many tile designs to choose from, so head to your local home improvement store and check out all the different options. Here's how to install tile for a fireplace surround: Does this Spark an idea?

Things You'll Need

  • Tile of your choice
  • Tile cutter
  • Notched trowel
  • Thinset adhesive
  • Grout
  • Grout float
  • Damp sponge
  • Wipe cloths
  • Measuring tape
  • Pencil
  • Level
  • Dropcloth
  • Heat resistant caulk
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a tile and/or design and create a cardboard template of the fireplace tile design before you start. This will help you space out the tiles evenly on the floor and ensure your measurements and tile cuts are correct.

    • 2

      Clean the fireplace surround. Make sure it is free of dirt, dust, or other particle debris.

    • 3

      Smooth the surface of the fireplace surround. Remove the mantel if there is one. If you decide to tile over bricks, make sure you smooth it out with thinset and a trowel.

    • 4

      Install a piece of 1"x3" wood below the top edge of the fireplace opening to provide support for the new tiles as they set above it. Make sure it is level and screw it into the surround.

    • 5

      Mix the thinset. Using a notched trowel, apply a coat of thinset above the support ledge on the fireplace.

    • 6

      Starting in the middle of the fireplace surround, install the tiles just above the support ledge and work your way to the far edges and the top, cutting the tiles as necessary on the ends. Be sure to use spacers, stagger the tile joints and wiggle each tile in place to ensure a firm set. Use a damp sponge to remove extra thinset or tile haze, then let the tile set overnight.

    • 7

      Remove the support ledge and screw it to the bottom of the fireplace surround to support the tiles for the legs.

    • 8

      Using the notched trowel, apply the thinset to one leg on the fireplace surround and tile it from the bottom up. Tile the next leg when you are done with the first. Use a damp sponge to remove extra thinset or haze, then let it set for at least 4 hours.

    • 9

      Remove the support ledge and spacers from the fireplace surround.

    • 10

      Cut and install smaller tiles where the support ledge was installed. Let the fireplace surround tiles dry for at least 4 hours.

    • 11

      Mix the grout by following the manufacturer's directions. Apply the grout at an angle with a grout float. Let the grout dry overnight. Wipe the tiles with a cloth to remove any grout haze.

    • 12

      Reinstall the fireplace mantel and caulk the edges with heat resistant caulk.

    • 13

      Allow the fireplace surround tile to cure for at least 5 days before building a fire.

Tips & Warnings

  • Check out the Resource links below for more home improvement projects.

  • Use rubber gloves when applying adhesive and grout.

  • Be sure to carefully handle cut tile since the edges may be sharp.

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