How To Put Stone Over Brick Fireplace

A stone fireplace surround can add a touch of rustic elegance to any home. If you're thinking about updating your fireplace, you may wonder how difficult it is to put stone over brick. The good news is that it's a relatively easy project that can be completed in a weekend with some basic tools and materials.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to put stone over brick:

1. Prepare the surface

The first step is to prepare the brick surface for the stone. This involves cleaning the brick thoroughly with a wire brush or power washer, removing any dirt, dust or debris for the adhesive to bond properly.

2. Apply a bonding agent

Once the surface is clean, you'll need to apply a bonding agent to help the stone adhere to the brick. This can be purchased at any home improvement store and is typically applied with a brush or roller.

3. Lay the stone

Once the bonding agent has dried, you can start laying the stone. Begin by laying out the stone in a dry fit to determine the best arrangement and to minimize cutting.

Apply a generous amount of mortar to the back of each stone and press it into the location. Use a level to ensure that the stone is level and plumb.

4. Grout the joints

Once the stone is laid, you'll need to grout the joints between the stones. This will help to seal the joints and prevent water damage. Grout can be purchased at any home improvement store and is typically applied with a grout float.

5. Seal the stone

Once the grout has dried, you'll need to seal the stone to protect it from stains and damage. This can be done with a stone sealer, which can be purchased at any home improvement store. Apply the sealer according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Tips for putting stone over brick

Here are a few tips for putting stone over brick:

Choose the right type of stone. Not all types of stone are suitable for use over brick. Some types of stone, such as slate, are too thin and can easily break when installed over brick.

Use the right type of adhesive. Not all types of adhesive are suitable for use over brick. Some types of adhesive, such as mastic, are not strong enough to hold stone in place.

Be patient. Putting stone over brick can be a time-consuming process. Don't rush the job, or you may end up with a poor-quality finish.