Can You Put Tile Over Brick Fireplace

Learn how to prep the old brick and fireplace surround and how to tile a fireplace for a fresh modern look.

Can you put tile over brick fireplace. Tiling over an existing brick fireplace can create a dramatic new look or restore some natural beauty if the brick has been painted over. You can also use stone look tile that looks every bit as great as stone but is made of porcelain. Go over the entire area with a wire brush to dislodge any loose mortar then scrub off the soot with a rag soaked in white vinegar. Steps for tiling over a brick fireplace.

After tackling my fireplace demolition and removing lots of ugly peach marble tile i unearthed the original brick fireplace from 1946. Video of the day volume 0. Start at the bottom of your tile or bottom of the fireplace surround and spread the grout diagonally over the ledger panels. In many cases skim coating the existing brick with thinset will create a strong smooth surface for tile installation.

Cover the hearth with a drop cloth and remove the mantel and anything else that s attached to the brick. Use needle nose pliers to remove tile spacers and take them out as you get to them in each section. The average do it yourself homeowner can cover their old tile fireplace surround with new tile in one to two days depending on the size and scope of the project. Repeat with the float multiple times so that you will fill in any gaps.

Choose from ceramic tile or natural stone tile like marble granite or slate. The peel and stick tiles have a little extra space on one side so you can overlap them slightly so there are no gaps. Stone performs well when exposed to high temperatures and is extremely durable. Yes you can tile directly over a brick fireplace.

Nowadays it is quite possible to tile over the old tile and avoid the time and money of cleanup and backerboard installation. Smooth the tile down with your hand. Then pull back the rest of the backer.