How To Brick A Fireplace Surround

A brick fireplace surround is a beautiful and classic way to add character to your home. It can also help to improve the efficiency of your fireplace, by reflecting heat back into the room. If you're thinking about adding a brick fireplace surround to your home, there are a few things you'll need to do to get started.

### 1. Choose the right type of brick

There are many different types of brick available, so it's important to choose one that will complement the style of your home. If you have a traditional home, you might opt for a red or brown brick. If you have a more modern home, you might choose a white or gray brick. You can also choose from a variety of textures, from smooth to tumbled.

### 2. Gather your materials

In addition to the brick, you'll need a few other materials to brick a fireplace surround. These include:

Mortar

Brick ties

A level

A trowel

A hammer

A chisel

### 3. Prepare the fireplace

Before you start bricking the surround, you'll need to prepare the fireplace. This includes removing any existing trim or molding, and cleaning the surface of the fireplace. You'll also need to level the fireplace, so that the brick surround will be even.

### 4. Lay the first course of brick

Once the fireplace is prepared, you can start laying the first course of brick. Start by laying a bead of mortar around the perimeter of the fireplace. Then, place the first brick in the corner, and use a level to make sure that it is level. Continue laying bricks around the perimeter of the fireplace, making sure that each brick is level and that the joints are staggered.

### 5. Continue laying the brick

Once you have completed the first course of brick, you can continue laying the brick in the same manner. Be sure to use brick ties to secure the brick to the fireplace. You can also use a chisel to trim the bricks to fit around the fireplace opening.

### 6. Finish the surround

Once you have laid all of the brick, you can finish the surround by applying a sealant. This will help to protect the brick from moisture and stains.

Bricking a fireplace surround is a challenging project, but it is also a rewarding one. With a little planning and effort, you can create a beautiful and classic addition to your home.