Removing A Brick Fireplace Hearth

Removing a Brick Fireplace Hearth

A brick fireplace hearth can be a beautiful and timeless addition to any home, but it can also be heavy and difficult to remove when necessary. Whether you're updating your fireplace or simply making room for a new design, removing a brick hearth is a job that can be easily DIYed with the right tools and materials.

Preparation

Before you begin removing the hearth, it's important to take some precautions to protect your home and yourself. Wear safety glasses and gloves, and clear the area around the fireplace of any furniture or other objects.

Removing the Bricks

To remove the bricks, you'll need a heavy-duty hammer or sledgehammer and a chisel. Start by carefully chipping away at the mortar around the edges of the bricks, working your way towards the center.

As you remove the bricks, be sure to gently lift them up and out of the hearth. If you pry the bricks sideways, you may damage the surrounding mortar.

Cleaning Up

Once you've removed all of the bricks, it's important to clean up the area thoroughly. Sweep or vacuum away any loose mortar or debris.

If you plan to replace the hearth with a different material, you may need to level the surface first. You can use a level to check for any uneven areas and use a thin layer of mortar or cement to fill in any gaps.