A worn and outdated fireplace can certainly put a damper on a chic modern living room. Refacing a fireplace can result in a cleaner more modern look. When a fireplace is refaced, the surround or heath are updated. Usually, tiles of some sort are used to reface a fireplace.
While this is a rather difficult task to perform on your own, we did gather together steps for the process. However, if you are a beginner and not very experienced with home improvement projects, you may want to leave this one to the processionals.
Step One: The Fireplace in Parts
Before beginning remodeling a fireplace, it is important to understand the anatomy of a fireplace. See the various elements of the fireplace above.
Steps to Reface a Fireplace
1. Remove the mantel. As you begin your project, you will need to first remove the mantel. If the mantel will be reused, make sure to mark off the placement of the mantel.
2. Remove the current heath. Before you remove the heath, protect the flooring surrounding it with cardboard (or a similar material) and tape.
3. Add the base of the new heath and apply thinset.
4. Set the new heath in place.
5. Cover the surround with tile selected for project.
6. Fit and fasten the mantel.
Keep in mind, these instructions are very vague. The process of refacing a fireplace is very tedious. We have pulled together a few more details to provide further resources for those seriously considering this project.
Detailed instructions on refacing a fireplace
