Remove Brick Fireplace Surround

Remove That Brick Fireplace Surround: A Comprehensive Guide

Fireplace surrounds, particularly those made of brick, can often hinder a room's aesthetic appeal and limit design possibilities. Removing a brick fireplace surround can breathe new life into your living space, offering a more modern and cohesive look. However, this task requires careful planning and execution to ensure safety and avoid damage to the underlying structure. In this guide, we will delve into the essential aspects of removing a brick fireplace surround, providing detailed instructions and helpful tips to ensure a successful outcome.

Step 1: Safety First

Before embarking on the removal process, it's crucial to prioritize safety. Wear protective gear, including gloves, eye protection, and a dust mask, as removing old bricks can generate dust and debris. If you are working with a gas or wood-burning fireplace, ensure the gas supply is turned off and the fireplace is cool before proceeding.

Step 2: Gather Tools and Materials

To efficiently remove a brick fireplace surround, you will need the following tools and materials:

Reciprocating saw or angle grinder with diamond blade
Crowbar or pry bar
Hammer or sledgehammer
Gloves, eye protection, and dust mask
Plastic sheeting or drop cloths
Shop vacuum

Step 3: Protect the Surrounding Area

Cover the floor and furniture surrounding the fireplace with plastic sheeting or drop cloths to protect them from dust and debris. Seal off any openings or vents leading to other parts of the house to prevent dust from spreading.

Step 4: Remove Any Mortar Joints

Using a chisel and hammer or a masonry bit with a drill, carefully remove the mortar joints around the edges of the brick surround, loosening the bricks and making them easier to remove.

Step 5: Cut the Bricks

Equip your reciprocating saw or angle grinder with a diamond blade. Wear protective glasses. Carefully cut through the bricks, following the mortar joints or using a straight line if desired. Cut the bricks into smaller pieces for easier removal.

Step 6: Pry Out the Bricks

Insert a crowbar or pry bar into the cut mortar joints or between the bricks. Gently pry the bricks loose and remove them one by one. Avoid using excessive force, as this could damage the underlying structure.

Step 7: Clean Up and Repair

Once all the bricks have been removed, thoroughly clean the surface around the fireplace opening, removing any remaining mortar or debris. If any damage has occurred to the underlying structure, consult a professional for repairs.

Additional Tips

Test the area around the fireplace for heat before removing the surround to ensure it is not still warm.
Use a shop vacuum to remove dust and debris as you work to prevent it from spreading through the house.
If the fireplace has a gas line, contact a licensed plumber to disconnect and cap the gas supply before removing the surround.
Consider leaving an inch or two of the brick surround exposed around the fireplace opening to create a subtle accent.