How To Put Brick Around Fireplace

How to Elegantly Embellish Your Fireplace with Bricks

Enhancing your fireplace with bricks adds warmth, texture, and an element of rustic charm to your living space. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you execute this project seamlessly:

Step 1: Gather Your Essentials

To embark on this project, you will need the following materials:

Firebricks or regular bricks
Thin-set mortar or refractory cement
Brick trowel
Level
Caulk gun and caulk
Grout

Step 2: Prepare Your Fireplace Surround

Thoroughly clean the area around the fireplace to eliminate debris. Remove any existing trim or molding from the fireplace surround. Use a level to ensure that the area is level before starting the bricklaying process.

Step 3: Lay the First Course

Mix a small batch of thin-set mortar or refractory cement according to the manufacturer's instructions. Spread a thin layer of mortar on the prepared surface. Place the first course of bricks on the mortar, ensuring they are level and aligned. Tap them gently with a rubber mallet to secure them.

Step 4: Continue Laying Bricks

Continue laying subsequent courses of bricks, staggering the joints and maintaining a consistent mortar thickness. Use a level to check each course for levelness and adjust as necessary. Ensure that the bricks are tightly fitted against one another to minimize gaps.

Step 5: Cut and Fit Bricks

To accommodate corners or complex angles, you may need to cut bricks. Use a brick chisel or a wet saw to cut the bricks precisely. Carefully fit the cut bricks into place, ensuring a seamless transition.

Step 6: Grout the Joints

Once the bricks are laid and dry, fill the joints between them with grout. Use a grout bag or a trowel to apply the grout evenly. Wipe away excess grout with a damp sponge. Allow the grout to cure according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

To complete the transformation, caulk the edges where the bricks meet the fireplace surround or any gaps that may remain. This step will enhance the durability and aesthetic appeal of your brick-embellished fireplace.