If you’re considering tiling your fireplace, ensure the tile you choose can withstand heat. Check the product details, and also consider patterned or textured tiles that can add interest to your surroundings.
Once you’ve chosen your tile, purchase the appropriate materials from your local home store. Depending on your design, you will need tile adhesive, a notched trowel and spacers.
Preparation
Regardless of the size or style of your fireplace, tiling can be a great DIY project to add elegance and beauty. However, the success of your tiling project depends on careful preparation. The surface must be clean, free of dirt and paint, and primed adequately before installing the tiles. This ensures the tiles adhere properly and provide a long-lasting, high-quality finish.
To begin, carefully measure the height and width of your fireplace surround to get precise measurements. Multiply these dimensions to determine the total square footage of the area you will need to tile. This will help you determine the quantity of materials needed for the job.
Next, use a scrub brush or sponge to clean the fireplace surface with a mild detergent and warm water. After cleaning, wipe down the surface and allow it to dry completely.
Once the surface has dried, apply a thin coat of primer to the entire area you will be tiling. Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
After the primer has dried, prepare to install your fireplace tile by applying a thin coat of adhesive to the back of each piece. Use a notched trowel to spread the adhesive evenly, covering the entire back of the tile. Position each tile onto the fireplace and press firmly, wiggling it slightly to ensure the tiles are bonded firmly.
Installation
Although you can use almost any type of tile for your fireplace hearth, some tiles are more heat-resistant than others. Porcelain is one of the most durable and heat-resistant tiles, ideal for tiling around your fire. You can also design your hearth with a mix of decorative and heat-resistant tiles, using the most heat-resistant tiles under the flames and more decorative ones further away.
Once your tile and adhesive are ready, it is time to start the installation process. To ensure you get the best results from your tile, it is worth a few moments to lay out your pattern first. This will help you to make sure that your final product is a perfect match with your vision for the space.
When ready to begin, apply your heat-resistant tile adhesive and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Start with a center line in your fireplace and draw a pencil mark at the front and back of the wall and floor, ensuring that the marker comes above where you will place the tiles so that you can see it throughout the entire tiling process.
Once you have applied the adhesive, spread a layer across the surface of your fireplace. You can do this with either a pre-mixed or powder type of adhesive. Once you have a layer of the adhesive spread, place your first tile onto the fireplace, press it firmly, and wiggle it around to ensure those tile tracks fill with the adhesive. Continue to place your tiles in this fashion, alternating sides and ensuring that you are working with the center of the room first.
Cleaning
The fireplace is a focal point of any home and can take a beating from constant use. If your fireplace tile looks worse for wear, it’s time to clean them thoroughly. This is a relatively easy project that requires just a few simple supplies.
Start by scrubbing the surface of your fireplace with a soft-bristled brush. This will dislodge any dirt and soot build-up, helping to create a pristine finish. Once scrubbing the tiles, they can be rinsed with a mild detergent solution. Use non-abrasive cleaners, as overly harsh chemicals can damage or discolor your fireplace tile.
After the tiles have been cleaned, allowing them to dry completely is important. Leave the hearth and firebox unlit for at least 24 hours to ensure this. In addition, you should consult with your local building codes and professionals to ensure your fireplace complies with any applicable safety regulations.
Now, it’s time to begin the tiling process. To do so, you’ll first need to prepare your adhesive. This can be either pre-mixed or in powder form, and both are acceptable. Once your adhesive is ready, apply it to the back of a tile and press firmly onto the surface. Be sure to use the grooved edge of your trowel to make ridges in the adhesive, which will help the tile stick.
Grouting
After the tile has cured, apply the grout. Some tiles may require sealing after grouting, so follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Depending on your fireplace type, you may also need to apply caulk where the tiles meet the hearth or surround. Using caulk to fill these areas provides flexibility for the two perpendicular surfaces and helps prevent cracking as the house settles.
Once the grout has dried, clean off any excess with a sponge and bucket of water. This removes the white haze that is created as the grout cures. It is best to work quickly before the grout begins to dry and becomes slick.
Before applying the final tile layer, re-dry fit the entire tile area to ensure it is accurate and achieves the desired design pattern. Use spacers and a level to ensure the lines are straight. Once you have a good reference, begin applying the tile, starting from the center line front to back and then working outwards from there. Work from the central tile outwards, positioning and styling each tile to create your desired finish.
Once the top is completed, turn your attention to the sides of the fireplace. Ensure all tiles are whole and have enough to cover your required area. If you do, apply the tile adhesive and notch your notched trowel as needed. Ensure that the back of each tile is completely covered in your adhesive mixture and firmly applied to the fireplace’s surface with consistent tracks.
