If you’re looking for a way to update your fireplace, tiling it might be the best option. It’s a relatively easy process and can give your fireplace a whole new look. Here are some tips on how to tile a fireplace.
Is your old, outdated fireplace giving you the cold shoulder? Consider tiling it to give it a fresh new look! Tile is a popular and affordable way to update your fireplace without spending a lot of money. Plus, there are tons of different tile designs and colors to choose from so you can really customize your fireplace.
Read on for instructions on how to tile a fireplace.
To tile a fireplace, you’ll need the following materials:
- -Tile adhesive
- -Tile grout
- -Tile spacers
- -Tile cutter or wet saw
- -Grouting sponge
- -Rubber gloves
- -Bucket
- -Mop
- -Safety glasses
Skills required to Tile a Fireplace
Handled all aspects of the tiling process, including:
- -Measuring for tiles
- -Cleaning off existing mortar and grout
- -Treating with a bonding agent to ensure adhesion.
Cost to Tile a Fireplace
It can be difficult to estimate the cost of tiling a fireplace because there are so many factors that can affect the price. Generally, the cost will depend on the size of the fireplace, the materials that are used, and the amount of labor that is required.
Estimated Time required to Tile a Fireplace
It is estimated that it would take around 3 days to tile a fireplace. This includes the time it would take to measure, cut, and place the tiles.
How to Prep a Fireplace for New Tile
- Clean the fireplace thoroughly. Remove any soot or ashes from the surface.
- If the fireplace is composed of brick, use a wire brush to remove any loose mortar or paint.
- If the fireplace is composed of concrete, use a muriatic acid wash to etch the surface. This will help the new tile adhere better.
- Allow the fireplace to completely dry before proceeding.
- Apply a layer of thinset mortar to the surface using a notched trowel. Be sure to smooth it out evenly.
- Place the first tile in the bottom corner of the fireplace, pressing it firmly into the mortar.
- Work your way across the fireplace, using a level to ensure that the tiles are evenly spaced.
- Cut tiles as needed using a wet saw or tile nippers.
- Allow the mortar to dry completely before applying a grout sealant. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
Steps for tiling a fireplace:
- Measure the area where you will be tiling. This can be done by measuring the height and width of the opening and then subtracting an inch from each measurement to account for the grout lines.
- Purchase the tiles and adhesive
Once you have measured the area, you will need to purchase the tiles and adhesive. Be sure to get a quality adhesive that will hold up over time.
- Prep the surface
Before tiling, you will need to prep the surface. This includes cleaning the surface and making sure it is free of any debris or dust. You may also need to apply a primer if the surface is not already coated in one.
- Apply the adhesive to the back of the tiles
Once the surface is prepped, you can apply the adhesive. be sure to follow the directions on the adhesive for proper application.
- Place tiles in desired pattern. Make sure to leave a gap between the tiles and the fireplace for grout.
- Let adhesive dry before using fireplace.
- Seal tiles with grout – make sure to wait for the adhesive to dry before grouting
- Enjoy your newly tiled fireplace!
What do you put behind tile on a fireplace?
Since most fireplace tiles are installed on a mortar bed, you need to put a finish material in behind the tile. You can use an interior-grade firebrick (you’ll need 20-25 per mantel) that’s been cut to size with special trowels and matching mortar or thin plumber’s brick.
Can any tile be used on a fireplace?
Yes, any tile can be used on a fireplace.
Do you need special grout for fireplace?
No, you don’t need special grout for a fireplace. In fact, you can use any type of grout that you want.
Can you tile over a brick fireplace?
Yes, you can tile over a brick fireplace. However, you will need to remove the mortar between the bricks and then re-mortar the area before tiling.
How do you finish the edges of a tile fireplace?
The most common edge is a 90-degree angle, which is created by gluing a strip of ceramic on the inside of the frame and then making a straight cut.
Another edge that may add character to your fireplace can be achieved by rounding off one corner of each tile. This adds extra detail, like if you wanted a stone wall look. You would just need to install screws around the TOP OF THE FRAME instead of inside.
The technique used to finish edging any type of tiling job on walls or floors is also applicable here. A metal trim (1/4″ thick) with either nails or finishing nails would be screwed onto all four edges in order to hold the tiles from sagging and spreading outwards under their own weight.
After the tile is set and grouted, you can add a finishing touch like paint or stain to the wood trim. You could also leave it its natural color for a more rustic look.